Bachelor of Music

Creative Specialisation and Performance Pathways

The Bachelor of Music at UC allows you to shape your degree around your specific artistic passions by choosing from four distinct majors: Performance, Composition, Music Production, or Music Studies. If you choose the Performance track, your daily life revolves around one-on-one instrumental or vocal tuition and hours of dedicated practice in high-quality rehearsal spaces. For those in Music Production or Composition, the focus shifts to creating original scores and using digital tools to record and manipulate sound. The flexibility of the degree means you can also take courses from other disciplines, such as Digital Screen or Business, to broaden your professional toolkit.

Active Music-Making and Public Concerts

As a student, you are not just studying theory; you are an active member of a performing community. The university hosts numerous concerts and events throughout the year, many of which take place at the iconic Arts Centre in central Christchurch. You will likely participate in various ensembles, from chamber music groups to larger choirs or contemporary bands, gaining real stage experience and learning how to collaborate with other musicians. These public performances are a core part of the learning process, allowing you to showcase your progress and build a portfolio of work while still studying.

Community Engagement and Industry Projects

A unique aspect of the MusB at Canterbury is the emphasis on connecting music to the wider world through the Community Music course. You will explore how music can be used for social impact, working on projects that might involve teaching, organising local events, or collaborating with community groups. Additionally, internship opportunities allow you to step into the local music industry, gaining insight into arts management, festival organisation, or music education. These real-world interactions ensure that your degree remains grounded in the practical realities of a music career in the 21st century.

Career Evolution and Future Pathways

Graduating with a MusB prepares you for a diverse range of paths, whether you aim to be a professional performer, a sound engineer, or a music teacher. The degree also serves as a gateway to advanced study, such as the Bachelor of Music with Honours or the Master of Music, where you can conduct deeper research or refine your creative craft further. Beyond the music industry, the discipline of regular practice, the ability to collaborate in ensembles, and the creative problem-solving skills gained during the course are highly valued in sectors like media, event production, and creative technology.