The MSc Classical String Performance at the University of Limerick is designed for advanced string players who want to build professional-level solo, chamber, and orchestral performance skills.
You will receive weekly individual tuition, ensemble coaching, and audition-focused training, with regular performance opportunities and specialist workshops supported by course staff and the programme pianist.
- Level: Postgraduate (MSc)
- Duration: Typically 1 year (confirm for your intake)
- Credits: Confirmed by the programme (ECTS)
- Delivery: On-campus
- Language of instruction: English
- Assessment: Performance-based modules and a final presentation
- Performance opportunities: Regular concerts and on-campus presentations
- Entry route: Academic eligibility plus audition and interview
- Application & start dates: Check the University of Limerick programme page for the next intake
Programme Structure
The MSc is built around performance development, ensemble training, and professional preparation. Modules typically include:
- Technique, Repertoire and Style – technical development, stylistic study, and guided repertoire preparation for performance.
- Ensemble – chamber music coaching and ensemble rehearsal skills, including performance practice with peers.
- Creative Process – performance-led learning, including creative and embodied approaches to musical expression.
- Elective – a focused area chosen to support your individual artistic goals (subject to availability).
- Final Presentation – a culminating performance/presentation demonstrating your developed skills.
Additional programme activities may include weekly individual lessons, technique classes, orchestral-excerpt preparation, specialist workshops, and intensive duo-sonata weeks with the course pianist.
Academic requirements
You will need a primary degree in a suitable discipline with first or second class honours (or an approved equivalent), or evidence of equivalent capability based on prior professional experience.
Note: The programme may consider applicants with relevant performance experience where academic equivalence is demonstrated.
English requirements
Applicants whose previous education was not conducted in English may need to provide an English test result. Typical accepted tests include:
- IELTS (Academic): 6.5 overall
- TOEFL iBT: 90 overall
- PTE Academic: 61 overall
- Duolingo English Test: 120 overall
Minimum scores and validity periods can vary—please confirm the latest requirements for your intake on the University of Limerick programme page.
Other requirements
Performance audition: Required for all applicants (in person or via audio/video recording).
Interview: Required in all cases.
Supporting documents: CV, qualification transcripts and certificates.
Identity document: Copy of passport or birth certificate.
Translations: If your documents are not in English, you may need to provide English translations and evidence of English language competency.
Additional materials: The course director may request further information at their discretion.
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Highlights"
Post-study work rights (Ireland): Graduates may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission in Ireland, subject to meeting the relevant immigration criteria at the time of application.
Typical eligibility factors include:
Successful completion of an eligible programme of study in Ireland.
Holding the correct immigration permission to study during the programme.
Applying within the required timeframe after graduation (deadlines and exact dates depend on the current policy).
Important notes:
Work permission duration and conditions can change based on government policy and your individual circumstances.
Some graduates may need to demonstrate that they meet specific requirements (for example, programme level and completion status).
Always check the latest guidance from the Irish immigration authorities and your university’s international office before planning your next steps.
Country-specific rules: If you are not studying in Ireland or you plan to work in a different country, eligibility rules may differ. Confirm the correct destination country before applying.