Studying music at the University of Leeds includes the following:
- all instruments and voice
- composition
- film music
- electronic music and music technology
- music psychology
- music analysis
- music aesthetics
- music history
- editing and archival studies
- popular music and jazz
- ensemble performance
A student could elect to take one third of his/her credits in music; i.e., one 20 credit module per year. For example, the performance module includes lessons, performance classes with coachings and assessments (self-awareness through performance), and a final recital. A student could elect to take two thirds of their credits in music by taking, for example, the performance module and a module in analysis. A student could actually focus all of their time on music-related topics by taking two 20 credit modules as above and then a 20 credit module such as Music Psychology that would earn humanities or science credits. View the Module and Program Catalog
Numerous extracurricular musical activities outside of the formal course work include orchestra, chamber ensembles, the LS2 New Music Ensemble, the Leeds Baroque Orchestra, choirs, dance bands, the University Music Society, which is the most active in the UK and is totally student run, the Opera Society, and the Stage Musical Society.
Auditions
Only students approved by John Yannelli, Director, Music Program, will be allowed to study music performance and composition at the University of Leeds. Upon approval by Mr. Yannelli, Leeds requires as part of their application that students send two or three contrasting works as PDFs and via web links or MP3 files that represent their abilities. Performance submissions should last no more than fifteen minutes. Performers also need to choose whether they will apply for solo or ensemble performance, which are different modules. They can elect to play in ensembles for no credit. Students interested in composition need to send a portfolio of scores and recordings. All approved audition materials are sent to the Leeds Academic Coordinator.
Students should familiarize themselves with the differences in musical notation systems between the United States and Europe. There are numerous websites that compare musical terms in different languages. We recommend the following: