Capital University

What you'll study

The programme balances core music theory and history with intensive applied study and practical theatre training. Students take sequential modules in aural skills, harmony and counterpoint, music analysis, and music history covering Western and global repertoires. Applied lessons on principal instrument or voice are complemented by chamber music, large ensemble and opera/theatre workshop participation.

Typical course components include:

• Applied lessons: weekly one-to-one tuition leading to juries and final recitals or performance projects.
• Ensembles and productions: orchestra, wind ensemble, choirs, chamber groups, musical theatre productions and collaborative projects with the theatre department.
• Core musicianship: ear training, sight-singing, harmony, counterpoint and form and analysis.
• Music history and literature: survey courses from early music to contemporary practices, plus specialised modules such as opera studies or musical theatre history.
• Composition and arranging: foundational composition, arranging for ensembles and opportunities to have works performed.
• Music technology and production: basics of recording, digital audio workstations, notation software and studio practice.
• Pedagogy and professional practice: methods of teaching, rehearsal techniques, entrepreneurship for musicians and placement or internship options.
• Capstone project or recital: a final public recital, major production role, or research/project demonstrating integrated skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification and demonstrate both academic readiness for undergraduate study and a strong level of musical ability. Admission typically requires an audition or portfolio submission showcasing performance, composition or theatre work, and may include an interview or sight-reading/ear-training test.

Typical expectations include a sustained record of musical study or significant practical experience, recommendations from music or drama teachers, and a personal statement outlining musical goals. International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme move into a wide range of music and theatre roles. Common career destinations include:

• Classical, jazz or contemporary performer (solo and ensemble)
• Music educator in schools, private tuition or community settings (further certification may be required for some teaching posts)
• Musical theatre performer, director or choreographer
• Composer, arranger or music producer for performance and media
• Conductor, rehearsal pianist or accompanist
• Arts administration, programming and festival management
• Recording and sound production roles in studios or live events

The degree also provides transferable skills — communication, project management and teamwork — valued in broader cultural and creative industries.

Why study at Capital University

Capital University offers the intensity of conservatory-style training within a small, liberal-arts environment, allowing close faculty mentorship and plentiful performance opportunities. Collaboration with the theatre department gives students practical experience in staging and musical theatre alongside concert repertoire.

Students benefit from frequent public performance chances, ensemble variety, and one-to-one applied instruction from active performers and educators. The programme emphasises professional preparation through pedagogy modules, entrepreneurship training and internship links with regional arts organisations, helping graduates move directly into performance, teaching and creative careers.