Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Music Performance

The BA (Hons) Music Performance course at Derby is designed for musicians who seek to perform while gaining a deep understanding of the technical environment in which commercial music operates. Students will develop a diverse skill set that spans performance, composition, technology, media production, and musicology, along with an in-depth appreciation of the growing economic and professional significance of popular music. As the music industry is a key component of the creative industries sector, its recent evolution, driven by digital distribution models and the rise of live music events, presents exciting new opportunities for music creation and delivery.

This course aims to equip students with the ability to be multi-skilled, adaptable, and capable of collaborating across various disciplines within the music industry, as well as its sub-sectors, including film, television, computer games, and advertising. Collaborative opportunities with students from other courses, such as BA (Hons) Film and High-End Television Production and BA (Hons) Animation, enable students to develop advanced digital skills for the creation of music-related content like album artwork, music promos, and brand development, while also honing networking and entrepreneurial skills essential for a successful career in the music industry.

The course offers students the chance to explore popular music performance, composition, and production alongside music technology, all while fostering creative and entrepreneurial abilities to keep up with technological and artistic innovations in the industry. Students will refine their skills on their chosen instrument through group-based learning, while also expanding their expertise in composition and songwriting. Additionally, they will study the social and business contexts surrounding commercial music. Regular public performance opportunities will be provided, and students are encouraged to engage with the local music scene through relationships with venues such as Dubrek Recording Studio and Derby Theatre, both of which are affiliated with the University of Derby.

Students will be taught by experienced lecturers who are actively involved in the music industry, with many holding international research portfolios and working as freelance producers and performers. The programme also provides insight into the commercial environment of music performance, helping students develop key management skills and awareness of professional protocols to prepare them for the competitive industry. Students will benefit from state-of-the-art recording studios and rehearsal facilities, enabling them to produce high-quality recordings of their performances.

With strong links to the music industry, students will also participate in the Music Production Show, where they can interact with industry professionals from companies like Avid, Yamaha, Focusrite, and Ableton, as well as representatives from the Musicians Union. The course offers numerous opportunities for professional experience through interactions with visiting performers and industry experts, including collaborations with Derby Jazz and ViVA Orchestra. As a registered training centre for Apple and Avid, the University of Derby provides opportunities for accredited training on popular production software, along with significant discounts on related products, ensuring that students are equipped with the tools and skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving music industry.