Bachelor of Music

Performing

A specialised bachelor's degree for music enthusiasts, offering academic, composition, and performance tracks to develop musical skills, creativity, and knowledge in music theory, history, and performance.

NZ$9,534

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 7 Certification (360 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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10

In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

Hamilton, Hamilton

It will take a total of 3 years

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Develop musical knowledge and skills

Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of music theory, history, styles, and techniques relevant to chosen specialisation.

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Demonstrate advanced musicianship and performance ability

Apply performance techniques in individual and group settings, improve musicianship, and participate in public recitals and ensembles.

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Compose original musical works

Create and arrange music using classical and contemporary idioms, integrating creative, technical, and technological skills.

What You're Signing Up For

The Bachelor of Music (BMus) at the University of Waikato is designed for students with musical talent and passion who want to specialise in academic, composition, or performance pathways. The programme combines music theory and practical tuition, offers access to top-tier performing arts facilities, and provides opportunities to learn from acclaimed staff. Students can take part in a variety of music genres, develop performance techniques, and collaborate with other musicians. The degree also includes options to explore digital music, composition, Western music history, and Māori musical and performance traditions.

Course Content

  • Music theory and history (including Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic to Contemporary music)
  • Music composition (songwriting, melody writing, thematic development, harmony, use of technology)
  • Harmony and counterpoint (Western tradition, practical application, keyboard, sightsinging, dictation)
  • Musicianship and performance techniques (individual and ensemble performance, classical and contemporary genres)
  • Academic research and analysis in music
  • Digital music and music technology
  • Māori musical instruments and song/dance traditions
  • Opportunities for public performance, competitions, and community engagement
  • Elective papers from arts, cultural studies and broader university subjects

What you need to know first

University Entrance (UE) or equivalent

NCEA - 14 credits in Music at Level 3, or 20 credits at Level 2

Grade 3 Theory pass (or better) in the NZ/Australian Music Education Board, or grade 5 theory pass in the Trinity or Royal College exams, or equivalent qualification

For performance stream: successful audition required

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Music

  • Arts & Culture

  • Media & Communications

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Advertising Executive

  • Arts Administration

  • Broadcaster

  • Composer

  • Film Music Producer

  • Journalist

  • Music Blogger

  • Music Retailer

  • Performer

  • Recording Artist