Composition and Performance
Composition and performance as research (choral, electroacoustic, contemporary ensemble music, traditional music).
Supervisors: Professor Phillip Cooke, Professor Suk-Jun Kim, Dr Aaron McGregor, Dr John De Simone
Music
Introduction
Flourishing research environment with strengths in composition (vocal, instrumental, and electroacoustic), historical musicology, ethnomusicology, music policy, sonic arts and sound studies.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Degree Qualification
- PhD
Staff at Aberdeen are internationally renowned in their chosen fields and have books, editions and articles published in many of the major journals and publishing houses and are regular contributors to international conferences. Their compositions are performed throughout the world and are recorded and broadcast on many radio and TV stations and they have received commissions from such groups as the BBC and Carnegie Hall, New York City.
At Aberdeen postgraduate candidates can study at masters level (MMUS by research; MMUS – six pathways: composition, musicology, performance, sonic arts, community music, education; or the MPhil in composition or musicology), and at doctoral level (PhD) in composition or musicology.
Approaches from applicants who wish to undertake their studies as Distance Learners will be considered, subject to discussion with an appropriate supervisor.
Our Research
Music at the University of Aberdeen combines expertise in composition, creative practice, community music, ethnomusicology, musicology, music education, music theory and sonic arts.
Our staff produce internationally recognised academic and creative outputs with a strong interdisciplinary approach, as well as engaging in public facing activities and impact projects. Research at the department is strengthened by our diverse group of PhD students.
The department is also home to major research groups and projects, and holds regular research seminars and forums run by staff and PGR students. We also maintain close links with the Elphinstone Institute, especially in the areas of ethnomusicology and traditional music.
Supervisors:
- Dr Aaron McGregor
- Dr Christina Ballico
- Professor Chris Collins
- Professor Suk-Jun Kim
- Dr Phillip Cooke
- Dr John De Simone
- Dr Jonathan Hicks
- Dr Frances Wilkins
- Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth
- Dr Thomas A. McKean
Research Groups and Interdisciplinary
- Sound Emporium Research Group (SERG)
- Elphinstone Institute
- Past and Present Musical Encounters across the Strait of Gibraltar (MESG)
- The George Washington Wilson Centre for Visual Cultures (GWW)
Research Interests
Ethnomusicology
Study of music and culture (specialisms in Spain, North Africa and Europe).
Supervisors: Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth, Dr Thomas A. McKean, Dr Frances Wilkins
Musicology
Specialisms in medieval, Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as the 19th to 21st centuries.
Supervisors: Professor Chris Collins, Dr Aaron McGregor, Dr Jonathan Hicks
Music, Place and Politics
Specialisms include mobility and migration, postcolonial studies, urban history, gender, nationalism and heritage across a range of genres and time periods.
Supervisors: Professor Chris Collins, Dr Christina Ballico, Dr Jonathan Hicks, Professor Suk-Jun Kim, Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth
Sound Studies and Sound Art
Research and creative specialisms in human and non-human sounds and soundscapes.
Supervisors: Dr Jonathan Hicks, Professor Suk-Jun Kim, Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipFees and Funding
Scholarships
Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
Careers
There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success. The Careers and Employability Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us, from first to final year – and beyond.
- More information on the Careers and Employability Service
Get in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Music Department