COURSE CURRICULUM

The BMus (Hons) Popular Music Performance curriculum is designed to develop students’ musical, technical, and professional skills through a progressive three-year structure that reflects the demands of the contemporary music industry. In Year 1, students establish a strong foundation through modules such as DAW Skills, Instrumental Technique and Performance, Popular Music Repertoires, Music Industry in Numbers, Instrumental Technique and Live Performance, and Contemporary Styles and Analysis. These modules develop musicianship, performance abilities, industry awareness, and an understanding of contemporary musical styles and technologies. In Year 2, students advance their artistic and professional practice through modules including Principal Instrument and Industry Practice, Co Lab: Research, Exploration and Risk-taking, Extending the Repertoire, Principal Instrument and Public Performance, and Advanced Styles and Analysis. Students can further personalize their learning by choosing an optional module in Sound Design for Visual Media, Applying World Rhythms to Performance and Composing, or Songwriting and Live Performance. In Year 3, the focus shifts toward professional preparation and independent creative work through modules such as Industry Briefs, Future Pathways, Advanced Ensemble Practice, Final Capstone Project: Preproduction, and the Final Capstone Project. These modules enable students to demonstrate advanced performance skills, creative development, and industry readiness. Throughout the program, students gain expertise in performance, collaboration, technology, and professional practice, preparing them for successful careers within the music and creative industries.