CAT (Classical Aural and Theory) Essential Principles
Credit value: 20
You’ll gain the essential musical skills you'll need to study classical music at university level. You'll build a solid foundation in music theory and aural skills, covering key theoretical principles, practical ear training, and how to use digital tools for notation and analysis. Through interactive workshops and seminars, you’ll apply these core musical elements and grow your confidence in preparation for further study.
This module is delivered through a combination of weekly lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessment includes a written theory test and an aural skills assessment.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
CAT (Classical Aural and Theory) Structural Analysis
Credit value: 20
You’ll build on your Semester 1 skills in music theory, aural training, and digital tools to prepare for undergraduate classical study. You’ll tackle more complex harmonic structures, sharpen your critical listening, and develop your use of software for score writing and analysis. Everything you learn will strengthen your practical musicianship and theoretical knowledge.
This module is delivered through a combination of weekly lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessment includes a theory examination.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
Classical Repertoire, Musicology and Composition
Credit value: 20
You’ll explore classical music in greater depth. You'll analyse key works, examine complex musical structures, and understand how classical music was received in different cultural and historical contexts. You'll also start doing independent research and begin composing your own work, applying your growing knowledge creatively and critically.
This module is delivered through a combination of weekly lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessment includes an analytical essay.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
Harmonic & Cultural Analysis
Credit value: 20
Through lectures, workshops, and seminars, you’ll explore classical music’s historical and cultural roots. You’ll analyse key repertoire and learn how theory, culture, and history influence composition and performance. You’ll also develop skills in critical thinking, analysis and creative exploration that will set a strong foundation for further academic and practical music work.
This module is delivered through a combination of weekly lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessment includes a written analysis.
Learning and teaching hours: 30 (15%)
Directed study hours: 170 (85%)
Introduction to Classical Performance & Composition 1
Credit value: 20
You'll build the key technical, musical, and interpretative skills for your chosen instrument or composition. With individual tuition and guided practice, you'll develop your technique, explore suitable repertoire, and set up a solid routine to support your progress. This module helps you grow confidence and establish good learning habits.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, composition/instrument lessons, and ensemble workshops Assessment includes a technical skills evaluation and performance/composition.
Learning and teaching hours: 35 (17.5%)
Directed study hours: 165 (82.5%)
Introduction to Classical Performance & Composition 2
Credit value: 20
Taking your skills further, this module helps you refine your technique and explore more challenging repertoire or compositional approaches. You’ll improve your stylistic awareness, expressive delivery, and overall fluency. You’ll also work on sight-reading, memorisation, and aural ability - giving you a stronger base for advanced study.
This module is delivered through a combination of lectures, composition/instrument lessons, and ensemble workshops Assessment includes a technical skills evaluation and performance/composition.
Learning and teaching hours: 35 (17.5%)
Directed study hours: 165 (82.5%)