Masters degree programme in Music Theory

Tuition on the Music Theory programme is in Norwegian, and candidates applying for this course must have an advanced knowledge of Norwegian.
 

The courses comprising this degree aim at applying knowledge of music theory to a specialized study of music of the period from about 1900 up to the present day in four particular theoretical and practical areas. They offer a secure foundation for understanding and assessing aspects of music theory, music history, aural training and music technology. The courses are intended for students with a Bachelor degree including a minimum of 120 credits in music generally or 90 credits in music theory. They offer a comprehensive background to people wishing to begin a research career in music, a practical occupation in music technology or employment teaching music theory.

In addition to certain obligatory courses, Masters degree students may choose their field of specialization (either compositional skills, aural training, historical studies or music technology) and a limited number of other subjects. The thesis or dissertation must be an original piece of work on a chosen subject documented in writing and possibly, when appropriate, including sound. In music technology, it may consist of a written and a practical part. The applicant is expected to be well orientated and informed in the subject area in which he or she wishes to specialize. This will be assessed during the entrance examination.

Audition

1. Description of the project
A description of the project on which the applicant intends to work (two or three printed pages) must be included with the application form. This should include suggestions as to how the applicant envisages carrying out work on the thesis and providing adequate documentation. It should also include the applicant’s view of the relationship between this course of study and his or her career plans.

2. Essay
The applicant will be asked in February to write a short essay of about 5 printed pages, within a certain time, set by the examining board on a topic connected to the subject area in which he or she proposes to specialize.

3. Oral examination and piano playing
A discussion with the examining board concerning the projected specialization and the essay submitted by the applicant. Sight reading of a four-part chorale on the piano.