University of Hull

What you'll study

The Music Performance degree combines individual tuition, ensemble work and applied music studies to develop technical control, interpretative skills and professional practice. You will follow a programme of practical study tailored to your principal instrument or voice alongside modules in musicianship, aural skills and music theory.

• One-to-one tuition: Regular individual lessons with specialist tutors to build repertoire, technique and audition preparation.
• Ensemble and chamber music: Large and small ensemble opportunities covering classical, contemporary and popular repertoire, with regular public performances.
• Performance practice and repertoire: Study of stylistic approaches, historical and contemporary performance techniques, and preparation of recitals.
• Music technology and recording: Practical studio sessions addressing multitrack recording, editing, basic production and preparing a professional demo or portfolio.
• Musicianship and theory: Aural training, harmony and analysis to support sight-reading, interpretation and arranging.
• Composition and arranging: Options to compose for soloists and ensembles and to develop skills in notation and scoring.
• Professional development: Modules on the music business, entrepreneurship, marketing, freelance practice and project management to prepare for a sustainable career.
• Final recital or portfolio: A culminating public recital or equivalent recorded portfolio that demonstrates technical and artistic development across the degree.

The programme typically progresses from core skill development in the early stages to more independent, career-focused projects in the final year. Assessment is mainly by performance, recorded submissions, coursework and reflective documentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a combination of academic qualifications and demonstrable practical ability on their chosen instrument or voice. Entry routes commonly include A levels, BTECs, an Access to Higher Education qualification, or equivalent qualifications and experience. Applicants are required to audition and submit recorded performance material as part of the selection process.

• Academic qualifications: Typical offers expect successful completion of secondary-level qualifications; specific UCAS tariff scores may apply and are published by the university.
• Audition: Live or recorded audition demonstrating technical control, musicality and stylistic awareness. Candidates are usually asked to prepare contrasting pieces and short sight-reading or improvisation tasks where appropriate.
• Music experience: Evidence of ensemble or solo performance experience, and practical grades or equivalent experience are advantageous.
• English language: International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Applicants with non-traditional backgrounds who can demonstrate equivalent practical experience or potential are encouraged to apply and will be considered through audition and interview.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Music Performance pursue a wide range of careers in and around music. The degree prepares students for work as professional performers—soloists, orchestral or ensemble players, band members and session musicians—as well as roles in education, community music and arts facilitation.

• Live performance and touring
• Session work and studio recording
• Instrumental or vocal teaching (with additional teacher training where required)
• Music production, sound engineering and media work
• Arts administration, promotion and venue management
• Community music, outreach and therapeutic music roles
• Further study at postgraduate level, including performance diplomas, conservatoire training or research degrees

The programme’s practical focus and professional development modules help graduates build portfolios, prepare audition materials and develop networks with local venues, promoters and music organisations.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers focused, practice-led tuition within a supportive arts environment. Students benefit from specialist staff with active performance careers, regular concert opportunities, and access to rehearsal rooms and recording facilities. The department cultivates links with local venues, community projects and regional arts partners, offering live performance and work placement opportunities.

Smaller cohort sizes mean personalised feedback and one-to-one guidance, while interdisciplinary opportunities across music, drama and related arts allow students to broaden their experience. The programme places equal emphasis on artistic development and career readiness, helping graduates to move confidently into professional performance, teaching or creative industries roles.