Goldsmiths - University of London

This one-year part-time programme offers more advanced study in jazz and popular music styles and their practical application. It is a natural progression from the Certificate in Music Studies. You should have playing skills and skills in reading, arranging, scoring and transcription at least equivalent to those provided by the Certificate.

The programme is also suitable for musicians working in a professional and semi-professional capacity who want to develop their musicianship and performing skills and theoretical knowledge.

The programme emphasises learning by doing, and welcomes musicians from a wide variety of jazz and pop backgrounds. The study of arranging and composition in a variety of styles is included, along with development of advanced skills in playing, improvisation and musical direction and production. Classes are spread over 11 weekends, and include workshops and lectures from professional musicians working in the jazz, pop and world music genres.

Entrance requirements
If you have completed the Certificate in Music Studies, subject to tutor approval you can progress to the Diploma. Other applicants will have to show the ability to notate what they hear, be proficient on a main and secondary instrument, and have basic keyboard skills.

What you study

General Musicianship involving lectures and practical work on: advanced jazz and popular music harmony, counterpoint and instrumentation, preparation of scores and parts, and rehearsal techniques.

Performance Ensembles involving practical aspects of the realisation of musical ideas with a band or ensemble. The emphasis is on learning by doing, including: the role of instruments in jazz and popular music, the production and direction of arrangements and compositions, and rehearsal and interpersonal skills.