Research-led Teaching
We have a mix of theoretical and practical expertise and staff teach from their own research interests as musicologists, composers, theatre directors and performers. Our musicological expertise covers over 1,000 years of music history, from plainchant to punk rock. We have particular specialisms in early music, music and literature (especially Shakespeare), the long nineteenth century, minimalism and creative practice.
Composition is interpreted in its widest sense, encompassing contemporary ‘classical’, electroacoustic, popular and applied composition (including music and sound for games), and cross-fertilization between these genres.
The performance of music and drama is central to the life of the Department, and music can be studied as a soloist and as an ensemble musician. Students receive private tuition from a dedicated team of instrumental/vocal tutors alongside performance workshop activities. We also offer modules in vocational subjects such as Arts Administration and Teaching Techniques.
Performance
Our practice-based teaching presents unique opportunities for student compositions to be performed, for interactions between live music and electronics, and for historically-informed performance arising from our musicological activity. In addition, there is an extensive range of extra-curricular activities, including orchestras, choirs, a brass band, a jazz band, a concert band, and opera and musical theatre groups. There are also four theatre societies who stage annual public productions in Pontio’s large theatre, and a film and radio society.
Welsh-medium study
The Welsh language is a vibrant force in Bangor, and we are the only Department of Music where it is possible to study your entire degree through the medium of Welsh. Even if you are not a Welsh speaker, you can take advantage of our world-leading expertise in the study of Welsh music.