Los Angeles

What you'll study

The programme blends core music studies with theatre and performance modules. Core music work typically includes music theory and analysis, aural skills, harmony and counterpoint, form and score reading, composition and arranging, and solo and ensemble performance. Theatre-related study covers acting technique, voice for the actor, movement and stagecraft, musical theatre rehearsal and performance, scene study, and stage directing or dramaturgy.

Students follow a mix of required sequences and electives. Typical semesters include applied lessons (private tuition on voice or primary instrument), chamber music or theatre ensemble, large ensemble or pit orchestra obligations, music history and literature, and workshops in production, sound design or choreography. Interdisciplinary options often allow collaboration with film, dance and media departments and access to studio modules on recording techniques, music technology and scoring for visual media.

The degree normally culminates in public performance assessments such as juries, recitals, staged scenes or a final project combining musical and theatrical elements. Graduates leave with practical experience in performance, notation and rehearsal processes as well as written and theoretical grounding in music studies.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme typically requires a completed secondary school qualification or equivalent, evidence of academic readiness, and demonstrable musical and/or theatrical ability. Applicants are usually asked to submit:

• Academic transcripts from secondary school or previous study;
• Audition or portfolio: a recorded or live audition demonstrating instrumental/voice proficiency and, if relevant, prepared theatre pieces or a showreel;
• A personal statement describing musical and theatrical experience, goals and relevant extracurricular activities;
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or professional mentors.

Some programmes may also require placement examinations in theory or a musicianship screening upon entry. Standardised test requirements vary by institution; international applicants may need to demonstrate English language proficiency. Applicants are advised to check the specific audition repertoire, technical requirements and any instrument-specific criteria before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across performance, creative and managerial roles in the arts. Common pathways include professional performer in musical theatre, opera or contemporary music ensembles; composer, arranger or music director for theatre productions; rehearsal pianist or accompanist; stage manager, music librarian or artistic administrator for companies and venues; and roles in sound design, recording and live audio for theatre and events.

Many alumni also move into education, community arts programmes, or further study such as conservatoire training, postgraduate composition or theatre practice, or specialised courses in music production and arts management. The combination of music and theatre training is particularly suited to those aiming for musical theatre careers, interdisciplinary performance projects, or creative roles in film, television and live entertainment industries.

Why study at Los Angeles

Studying in Los Angeles places you at the heart of a major creative ecosystem with abundant performance venues, recording studios and production companies. Students benefit from proximity to professional theatres, concert halls and commercial music studios, as well as guest lectures, masterclasses and industry-led workshops delivered by practicing artists and practitioners.

Institutions in the city often emphasise practical experience and provide internship and collaboration opportunities with film, television and dance departments, enabling cross-disciplinary projects. The local performing arts scene, festivals and touring companies create continual opportunities for networking, part-time professional work and portfolio development while you study.

Additionally, training in Los Angeles gives access to a broad range of repertory and styles—from classical and contemporary concert work to pop, jazz and musical theatre—preparing graduates for the diverse demands of today’s national and international performing arts industries.