University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme emphasises advanced practical skills in your principal instrument or voice alongside contextual and research-led study. Typical elements include one-to-one tuition and recital preparation, chamber and orchestral ensemble work, and modules in interpretation, repertoire development and contemporary performance practice.

• Applied Performance: intensive individual lessons and public recitals focusing on technique, programme building and stagecraft.
• Ensemble and Collaborative Music: chamber music, orchestral experience and collaborative projects with composers and other disciplines.
• Research Methods for Music: training in methodologies relevant to performance research, including practice-as-research, historical and analytical approaches.
• Historical and Contemporary Repertoires: studies in stylistic contexts, period performance practice and new music.
• Professional Development: career management, arts entrepreneurship, teaching methods and audience engagement.
• Major Project or Dissertation: a substantial practice-led project or written dissertation supervised by departmental staff, often culminating in a public performance or portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree with honours in music or an equivalent qualification demonstrating a high level of practical skill. Evidence of advanced performance ability is required, usually by recorded audition or live audition, together with a portfolio of previous study and performance.

Additional requirements may include a research proposal if applying for a practice-led route, references from academic or professional referees, and evidence of prior study in relevant theoretical or historical subjects. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's English language requirement.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of professional roles across the music and cultural sectors. Common career paths include:

• Solo and ensemble performer with national and international engagements.
• Instrumental or vocal teacher in schools, conservatoires and private practice.
• Further academic study at MPhil/PhD level, pursuing research in performance studies or musicology.
• Arts management, programming and outreach, working with festivals, theatres and cultural organisations.
• Music preparation and coaching roles for opera, theatre and media productions.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta's Department of Music combines specialist teaching staff with access to Malta's rich musical heritage and performance venues. Students benefit from close individual supervision, ensemble opportunities across campus and collaboration with the local professional music community.

Facilities include practice rooms, rehearsal spaces and access to library collections that support both practical and research work. The programme's location in Malta also offers regular performance opportunities in historic and contemporary settings, enabling a distinctive blend of international repertoire and local cultural practice.