BA (Hons) in Music
Course code: WD027
What is the BA (Hons) in Music course?
The course is a four year full-time degree in music, which offers the student an opportunity to specialise in classical music, Irish traditional music or jazz and popular music. The course outline shows a snapshot of subjects studied over the four years.
Career Opportunities
A degree in music is a valuable asset for access to many other careers. In particular, music graduates are sought after in professions which demand a high level of personal confidence, communication skills and expressive ability. Graduates of the course have found employment as:
- Teachers
- Performers
- Administrators
- Composers
- Arrangers as well as in the area of music technology and other related areas
- Arts management
Follow on Study
Many graduates continue postgraduate programmes for HDip in Education or Masters programmes in relevant areas.
Taught MA in Arts & Heritage Management
Special Feature
The course offers a balance between academic and practical music subjects.
Course Outline
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
|
Critical Thinking & Writing Skills
|
Research Methodologies Basic Music Technology Composition Instrumental Studies 2 Studies in Music History General Musicianship Choose one from: Keyboard Skills Vocal Skills Fretboard Skills Improvisation Irish Traditional Practical |
| Years 2, 3 & 4 | |
|
Music History - there is a wide range of history options; some examples include ethnomusicology, baroque, popular music since 1950, Irish contemporary music, traditional Irish music and the Beebop era. Technical Subjects - in addition students will study more technical subjects such as: Music technology, Digital, Audio & Acoustics, Advanced recording techniques. Other electives include - Languages, Music therapy, Composition & Orchestration, Instrumental pedagogy, Arts management, Critical music editing. Ensembles - students take part in a weekly 'directed ensemble' as well as 'evening ensembles' (Jazz, Chamber choir, Orcehstra & Irish traditional music) Major & Minor |
|
Course Facts
Course Title: BA (Hons) in Music
Course Code: WD027
Course Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Course Entry
Leaving Certificate:
- Total number of different subjects at grade D or better: 6
- Number of subjects at higher level, grade C or better: 2
Required Subjects:
- English/Irish: OD3/HD3
- Mathematics: OD3/HD3
Additional Requirements
In addition to the Leaving Certificate requirements, you are required to attend for written and aural musical tests and to show that you have achieved a performance standard with a musical instrument equivalent to grade 5 of a recognised music examining body. All applicants must attend for the written examination and aural test to be considered for a place.
As this is a restricted course you must apply by 1 February.
For further information
Contact Dr David Rhodes.
Phone: 051 302279. E-mail: music@wit.ie
Recent Entry Points
| Year | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
| Minimum Points | 265 | 270 | 280 | 305 | 310 |
But don't just take our word...
“I graduated in 2004 with a First Class Honours degree in BA in Music, majoring in performance. I am continuing my studies and am in my final year of my Masters in Arts in Music Performance, specialising in piano. In 2003 I won a composition competition for my song “The Great Blasket Islands”. I am a member of staff on the WIT BA (Hons) in Music course and a teacher in the Music School. I am the official accompanist of WIT Larks Choir and director of WIT Singing Club. Recent successes include winning the Senior Piano Repertoire Section of the Fintan O’Carroll Feis and being highly recommended in the Open, Advanced Category at the Arklow Festival. In Aberystwyth in 2004 I was the official pianist in the composers’ seminar at Musicfest.
My continuing studies at WIT are enhancing my performance and academic skills, to my highest potential. Working at the Institute and Music School have enabled me to pass my knowledge on to the young and old alike - an opportunity I find most rewarding”.
Oonagh Drohan, BA in Music
