Music - Composition

The MA Composition at Maynooth University provides a supportive yet stimulating environment in which to develop your individual compositional style. The focus of the course is the creation of a professional portfolio of compositions, supported by regular one-to-one tuition from the experienced composers in the Department of Music. Core modules in contemporary compositional technique and the study of works and writings of other composers help broaden your compositional focus and allow you to develop your own voice in the exciting world of contemporary music. These activities are complimented by regular talks and consultations with visiting professional composers and opportunities for performance of your works by visiting performers and student ensembles.

A portfolio of compositions supported by modules in contemporary compositional techniques, contemporary aesthetics and a range of electives from the MA in Creative Music Technologies (e.g. electroacoustic composition) and MA in Musicology (e.g. aesthetics of 20th-/21st-century music).

Honours degree normally with a minimum of Grade 2.1 in music. Interview is required in addition to submission of examples of composition demonstrating attainment equivalent to high 2.1 BA level skills. International students whose first language is not English are required to present an English language exam certificate showing IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).

Minimum English language requirements: please visit Maynooth University International Office website for information about English language tests accepted and required scores. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and non-EU applicants.
Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

All applications should be made through the PAC system.

Closing Date : 30 June 2021

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Recent graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers as composer (for media and art-music), arranger, performer/improviser, music copyist, essayist/critic, and in fields such as arts management and broadcasting amongst others. The skills developed in the MA in Composition are transferable to many diverse areas of employment beyond the creative industries, including primary, secondary and third-level education, research based careers (e.g. research and consultative work, not only in the arts but also general public sector organisations), and administrative or managerial roles.

For example, non-arts-based companies also look for creative, independent employees and their particular skillset. Key skills are developed throughout the course, such as:

Identifying, analysing and solving problems;

Prioritising tasks, coping with complexity, setting achievable goals and taking action;

Working independently and as a team;

Communicating (both orally and in writing);

Demonstrating confidence and motivation to start and finish the job, adaptability/flexibility, creativity, initiative, leadership, decision-making, negotiating and the ability to cope with stress;

Applying and exploiting information technology;

Demonstrating critical evaluation of the outcomes of the professional practice;

Reflecting on and evaluate one's own practice.

Postgraduate options - The MA in Composition also prepares students for doctoral study in composition.