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Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 2 Years
Mode: Full-time

Deepen Your Skills and Specialised Interests

The Bachelor of Music (Honours) course was designed to give aspiring musicians a firm foothold in the industry, no matter the musical profession of choice. The course, offered in collaboration with the Royal College of Music (RCM) in London, is a two-year top-up offered to diploma graduates.

International placements at either the RCM or the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing offer opportunities to gain global exposure. It is also a chance to learn from and collaborate with some of the world’s best musicians through projects and showcases.

Ultimately, studying and performing in a multicultural environment will deepen your understanding of the music industry, so you develop the versatility to navigate the changing landscape.

Please watch this webinar to learn more about the Bachelor of Music (Honours) from our faculty and students. 

 

At the end of this programme, students should be able to:
  • Refine individual skills and deepen specialist interests, establishing a strong professional presence.
  • Develop close links with the music industry in its widest sense.
  • Gain a sense of individual and collective responsibility.
  • Adapt effectively to evolving professional expectations and demands in the broader musical, cultural, interdisciplinary, and economic contexts.

Embark on Overseas Exchanges

In your final year, you can attend an international placement for seven weeks at the Royal College of Music in London (for Western Instruments) or ten weeks at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing (for Chinese Instruments). In addition to principal study lessons, you will also have the chance to perform in public events.

Learn from the World’s Best

Meet, greet and learn from the best in the industry through an abundance of masterclasses and artist residencies, including through the RCM Visiting Professor and NAFA Artist in Residence schemes.

Curate a Unique Learning Journey

One-on-one principal study lessons, performance classes, masterclasses and concerts ensure you can develop your composition and performance skills. Instrumentalists also have the chance to undertake a second study on a related instrument, and those skilled in two areas can consider joint principal studies.



More Information
RCM Graduation Requirements

In order to graduate from the degree programme, students are required to attain a total of 240 credits, of which at least 180 credits must be at Level 6 and above.

Mode of Instruction

The BMus programme provides advanced training in solo, chamber, and ensemble performance. Core to the programme are one-to-one lessons led by renowned musicians. Students can customise their studies to align with their unique interests and career aspirations through elective modules. Lessons are available in-person or online, featuring a variety of teaching methods. Students are expected to participate in all scheduled sessions, including one-to-one lessons (Principal, Second, and Related Study), masterclasses, workshops, orchestras, choirs, seminars, and various web-based interactions such as video conferences, webinars, and live-streamed recitals.

Assessment Methods

Modules are assessed through a variety of methods, including practical exams, written exams, projects, mock recitals, mock orchestra auditions, lecture-recitals, viva voce, concert performances, reviews, self-assessment, diaries, case studies, discussions, presentations, peer assessment, fieldwork, research projects, and portfolio submissions, or a combination thereof.

Career Pathways
  • Band Director
  • Choral Director
  • Collaborative Musician
  • Composer/Arranger
  • Conductor
  • Music Administrator
  • Music Entrepreneur
  • Music Event Organiser
  • Music Producer/Presenter
  • Music Teacher
  • Music Technology Specialist
  • Music Workshop Facilitator
  • Orchestra Player
  • Session Musician
  • Sound Designer

 

Modules

Check out the range of modules to build your technical skills, enhance your exposure and boost your employability.

Code Title Semester Credits
MU3644

Aural

This module reviews and develops aural perception. You are trained to recognise complex intervals, rhythms, motives, textures and chord progressions in music from a range of styles.
1 & 2 10
MU4511

Related Study Level 5

Related Study is available as an option to students who meet the prerequisite. Students establish a firm technical and musical foundation in an instrument related to their principal study through the requisite study of scales, arpeggios, and selected repertoire.
1 & 2 10
MU4512

Second Study Level 5

Second Study is available as an option to students who meet the prerequisite. Students develop their technical and musical skills in a second study area, and will be guided towards their final presentation.
1 & 2 20
MU4516

Principal Study Level 6 (60 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 30 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 60
MU4517

Principal Study Level 6 (70 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 35 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 70
MU4518

Principal Study Level 6 (80 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 45 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 80
MU4532

Composition Level 5

This module explores effective scoring techniques and discusses practical considerations of performance arrangements.
1 & 2 20
MU4533

Music Therapy

This module introduces music therapy and what being a music therapist entails. Learn about the realistic aspects of the field through audio-visual resources, guest lectures and field trips.
1 & 2 20
MU4534

Orchestration & Transcription

This module covers the understanding of the ranges, transpositions, capabilities and characteristics of orchestral instruments, in a range of examples from the Classical period through to present day.
1 & 2 20
MU4535

Orchestration & Transcription (Chinese Orchestra)

This module covers the understanding of ranges, transpositions, capabilities, and characteristics of Chinese orchestral instruments with examples drawn from standard Chinese orchestra repertoires and contemporary works.
1 & 2 20
MU4536

Writing About Music Level 5

These practical sessions focus on the development of different styles of writing and voices; an array of strategies for communicative writing such as descriptive, interpretive, and evaluative will be examined.
1 & 2 10
MU4541

Accompaniment (Piano, Organ, Guitar, Yangqin) Level 5

Develop a range of technical and musical skills for communicating through performance as an accompanist. Skills taught include sight-reading, knowledge of pronunciation, and meaning of texts and improvisation.
1 & 2 20
MU4543

Conducting Level 5

This module offers an introduction to the art of conducting. Beginning with specific technique-based sessions, the module continues into a series of practical classes, extending your technical and intellectual facilities and covering a range of repertoire.
1 & 2 20
MU4550

Interpretation of Song Level 5

This module is designed to enable all singers to enhance their existing artistic and vocal gifts through participation in song classes, whether as performers or as active listeners. The module builds upon earlier provision encountered at Levels 4 and 5.
1 & 2 20
MU4551

Chamber Music Including Duo Performance Level 5

You will get the opportunity to perform with members of an ensemble or a duo to create a unified, well-blended and balanced performance.
1 & 2 20
MU4563

Alexander Technique Level 5

This module is offered in conjunction with the RCM international placement. It introduces the historical context of the Technique and the development of F. M. Alexander’s Principles. Students develop an awareness of the personal habits that impede the coordination of their mind and body and learn how to apply the Alexander Technique to personal practice and performance.
2 10
MU4564

Creative Enterprise Level 5

This module aims to promote strong entrepreneurial skills including setting up and running one’s own teaching studio, networking, marketing, and financial management skills. Additionally, students develop collaborative, communication, and interpersonal skills through group projects.
1 & 2 10
MU4565

Evaluating Performance Level 5

This module examines the procedures, tools, and skills that underpin performance assessment to provide students with insight into their audiences, their judges, and their own performances. Through interactive sessions featuring experienced practitioners, this module considers topics ranging from how to collaborate on a jury panel to how to critique, design, and implement an assessment rubric, informed by research and practice in education, psychology, and performance science.
2 10
MU4566

Musician in the Digital Age Level 5

This module encourages students to consider the role that technology plays in their practice as musicians. The module explores its creative potential and how it can be harnessed to provide new opportunities for expression, employment and differentiation in a rapidly evolving industry. Through a series of seminars and hands-on practical workshops, students will explore a range of technologies and how they influence musicians in creating, marketing and presenting their work. Students will develop practical digital skills in devising their own technology-based performance project.
1 & 2 10
MU4567

Performance Science and Psychology Level 5

This module is offered in conjunction with the RCM international placement. The lecture series will introduce students to recent advances in the science and psychology of music performance. The module will examine research on the physical and mental processes that underpin effective learning and performing, including a wide range of individual, social and cultural factors that interact with these processes.
2 10
MU4568

Artist Development: Digital Skills for Musicians Level 5

This module focuses on the development of students’ digital skills for communication and self-promotion. It seeks to foster digital fluency for performing and career development, as well as for students to be versed with wider trends to connect better with the community.
1 & 2 20
MU4569

Improvisation Level 5

This module introduces a range of techniques for creative improvisation. Through playing and music making workshops, students will acquire listening, interacting, reflecting, anticipating, describing and creating skills. These skills will in turn deepen their understanding of the music they are performing, as well as develop their critical ability to listen to the sound that they are producing, thus raising their overall musicianship and proficiency.
1 & 2 20
MU4611

Related Study Level 6

Related Study is available as an option to students who meet the prerequisite. Students establish a firm technical and musical foundation in an instrument related to their principal study through the requisite study of scales, arpeggios, and selected repertoire.
1 & 2 10
MU4612

Second Study Level 6

Second Study is available as an option to students who meet the prerequisite. Students develop their technical and musical skills in a second study area, and guided towards their final presentation.
1 & 2 20
MU4616

Principal Study Graduation Level (60 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 30 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 60
MU4617

Principal Study Graduation Level (70 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 35 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 70
MU4618

Principal Study Graduation Level (80 credits)

Students establish technical and musical skills through 45 hours of 1-to-1 lessons with their principal study teacher.
1 & 2 80
MU4630

Schenkerian Analysis

Learn to build a critical awareness of musical structure using the analytical method developed by Heinrich Schenker. Apart from just thinking harmonically, you are also trained to think contrapuntally, enhancing your understanding of individual compositions.
1 & 2 20
MU4631

Creating Music & Sound Design for Theatre

This module provides the tools required for working as a composer/musical director/musician in theatre. It also establishes cooperative understanding in the provision of sound material for theatrical purposes.
1 & 2 20
MU4632

Composition Level 6

This module provides you with an opportunity for self-directed study on a composition of particular interest to you. The production and presentation of a substantial composition will help you foster a professional approach to the creative process.
1 & 2 20
MU4633

Music Therapy Techniques

In this experiential module, you will apply what you learned from the prerequisite module (Music Therapy) to better your understanding of music therapy training and practice, as applied to select client populations.
1 & 2 20
MU4634

Orchestration & Arrangement

In this module, you’ll recognise, and apply, a fuller range of resources in terms of arranging and instrumental technique to enable the effective and idiomatic transfer of musical material between instrumental media.
1 & 2 20
MU4636

Professional Skills (Instrumental & Vocal Teaching)

This module aims to explore various pedagogical strategies and further develop confidence in the student’s teaching experience.
1 & 2 20
MU4638

Research Project

Through an independent study on a topic of interest, you are able to benefit from consultations with an assigned supervisor with academic distinction in that discipline. The research process helps build your critical and analytical skills in academic writing, and fosters your understanding of professional scholarly practice.
1 & 2 30
MU4640

International Placement (RCM, London)

This module provides the opportunity to study in a foreign environment, both as a musical and personal experience. You will participate fully in the life of the college (RCM) in accordance with your Learning Agreement set up by discussion with the Module Coordinator.
1 & 2  
MU4640B

International Placement (CCM, Beijing)

This module provides the opportunity to study in a foreign environment, both as a musical and personal experience. You will participate fully in the life of the college (CCM) in accordance with your Learning Agreement set up by discussion with the Module Coordinator.
1 & 2  
MU4641

Accompaniment (Piano, Organ, Guitar, Yangqin) Level 6

Building upon the previous module in Level 5, you advance your skills in a wider range of situations and repertoire.
1 & 2 20
MU4643

Conducting Level 6

This module expands and refines the technical and intellectual capabilities in the art of conducting. Learn to read, question and prepare scores in greater depth.
1 & 2 20
MU4644

Aural in Professional Contexts

This is an advanced module in aural training, where you will be taught practical and written aural skills. Gain an understanding of transcription skills that extend into rhythmic, melodic and harmonic elements, as well as other expressive resources from a range of music styles.
1 & 2 10
MU4645

Contemporary Music

This module establishes opportunities to work with student composers. The collaborative conceptualisation of performance projects builds the confidence and skills needed as contemporary musicians and performers.
1 & 2 10
MU4648

Opera, Acting & Movement

The combination of separate work in Acting, Movement, Speech, Language and Coaching classes, as well as lessons from individual Principal Study and Repertoire relating to a particular role in an operatic scene, will culminate in a live performance in an Opera Scene.
1 & 2 30
MU4650

Interpretation of Song Level 6

This module is designed to enable all singers to enhance their existing artistic and vocal gifts through regular attendance and participation in Song Classes complemented by language coaching to consolidate and enhance interpretative, vocal and artistic skills. Language Class Coaching continues to provide the linguistic basis for any subsequent performance in a Song Class.
1 & 2 20
MU4651

Chamber Music Including Duo Performance Level 6 (20 credits)

You will get the opportunity to perform with members of an ensemble or a duo to create a unified, well-blended and balanced performance.
1 & 2 20
MU4652

Chamber Music Including Duo Performance Level 6 (30 credits)

You will get the opportunity to perform with members of an ensemble or a duo to create a unified, well-blended and balanced performance.
1 & 2 30
MU4653

Workshop Leadership Level 6

This module helps you gain an understanding of the workshop process, learn how to generate material, and to develop confidence in both leading a workshop as well as being a supporting musician.
1 & 2 20
MU4654

Ethnomusicology: A Global Perspective Level 6

This module introduces students to the functions and roles of music in diverse cultures around the world, as well as the key issues related to ethnomusicology. In addition, students learn the theories and methods of ethnomusicological fieldwork and apply research methods such as interview techniques, ethnography of musical performance, and data analysis to their research.
1 & 2 20
MU4655

Aesthetics and Criticism Level 6

The course provides an overview of the way the nature and role of the arts, especially music, has been thought and argued about in the Western world, across two millennia. The aesthetics of music is discussed within the context of aesthetics in general. This allows us to see in what respects music is like the other arts, and in what respects it is different.
1 & 2 20
MU4663

Open Project Level 6 (Graduation)

This module enables students to explore an area of interest to them with the aim of deepening their understanding of the specialism and critically engaging with perspectives in their chosen field. The Open Project presents an opportunity for students to develop expertise in area that they would have already explored and excelled in during their study at NAFA, with the view of enabling them to articulate original findings, persuasively challenge or engage with a field and demonstrate a level of expertise with their subject area.
1 & 2 30
MUTECH

Principal Study Technical Exam Level 6

These test a range of technical skills (scales, arpeggios, studies, sight reading or quick studies, orchestral excerpts) and are short exams which must be passed in order to pass the module overall.
1 & 2 -
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entry requirements

Find out about the entry requirements that apply to you.

 

Through an audition that consists of – (A) Performance and Interview (for Instrumentalists/Singers), or (B) Portfolio Submission and Interview (for Composers), we look for:

  • A passion for music and performance/composition
  • A commitment and motivation to strive for excellence in the BMus programme
  • A demonstrable security in technical and musical skills on the instrument/voice, or in composition
  • An aptitude for critical thinking and evaluation of ideas
  • An aptitude for self-directed learning and evaluation of work
  • The ability to communicate ideas musically, verbally and in writing
  • An aptitude for creative thinking and problem-solving

We understand that auditions are a significant milestone on every applicant’s journey towards a career as a conservatoire musician. The guidance below will help you prepare to the best of your abilities and make you aware of what will happen at your audition.

Audition

(A) Performance and Interview (Instrumentalist/Singers); OR

  • Your audition will be recorded and may be reviewed by the appropriate Head of Faculty from the RCM.
  • You should prepare a programme of at least 15 minutes and show a variety of styles, periods and characters. You do not need to submit your audition programme in advance. The audition panel reserves the right to hear only two pieces overall.
  • Pianists should prepare from memory a programme of at least three works of their own choice. This should last at least 15 minutes and show a variety of style, period and character.
  • Singers should prepare three contrasting pieces in at least three of the following languages: English, Italian, French, and German. One-piece must be an operatic or oratorio aria (with recitative if possible). Pieces selected from popular music repertoire would not be considered for the purposes of this audition.
  • Non-pianists are required to bring along their accompanists if their chosen pieces require accompaniment. A list of NAFA's Official Accompanists would be made available to applicants along with their audition details. There will be a fee payable directly to the Accompanist.
  • All instrumentalists except percussionists and pianists are required to bring their principal study instrument for the audition.
  • You cannot bring a page-turner, your teacher or a translator into your audition. The only people in your audition room will be you, your accompanist and the audition panel. As our courses are taught in English we expect you to be able to communicate in English at your audition.
  • Technical work (scales, arpeggios etc) may be required of some instrumentalists.
  • Quick Study test will be required of all performers.
  • As our programmes are taught in English, all applicants will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.
  • Typical questions you may be asked during your interview include:
    • Why do you want to study at NAFA?
    • What are your musical interests?
    • What do you think you need to do most to improve your performance?

(B) Portfolio Submission and Interview (Composers)

  • Composers should submit a portfolio of at least two, but not more than five, contrasting examples of your compositions. You are required to submit your portfolio to the Students Admissions Office at least 4 weeks in advance of your scheduled audition.
  • Written scores may be submitted as PDF files. Do not send Sibelius files unless they are accompanied by PDF files of the same material. Recordings should be in a file format that can be read in VLC or Windows Media Player.
  • Individual works should be clearly indexed on the accompanying documentation. All recordings should be clearly labelled with your name and the title of the piece.
  • On the day of the audition, you may submit your work as written scores, recordings or a combination of the two. Please ensure that written music is clear and legible with full information of instrumentation, scoring and performance details.
  • We are looking for evidence of both a talent for composition and the ability to realise effectively, or to start to realise, your ideas in a variety of forms and media.
  • The interview will include a series of simple aural tests.
  • As our programmes are taught in English, all applicants will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.
  • Typical questions you may be asked during your interview include:
    • Why do you want to study at NAFA?
    • What are your musical interests?
    • What do you think you need to do most to improve your writing?

Live auditions in Singapore
Live auditions in Singapore are usually held in the months of December, February and April.

Audition Date
4 to 8 December 2023
26 to 29 February 2024
27 to 28 April 2024

Live auditions in China

Audition Date
11 – 12 Nov 2023
12 – 13 Mar 2024
19 May 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

Guidelines for Video Recording:

  • The recording should be a clear and accurate representation of your playing. Do not edit the audio/video of your recording.
  • The camera should be stationary for the performance of each work.
  • The video should show the performer in full body if possible.
  • The video should be recorded no more than six months prior to the scheduled audition.
  • The video recording files should be named with the title of the pieces.

A relevant diploma in Music or Music Teaching from NAFA or for students from other musical institutions, full transcript(s) from current university or college to demonstrate successful progression through a course of study, equivalent to 2 years of undergraduate musical training.

 

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:
  • Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
  • Educational Qualification
  • Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor
  • Age Requirement
Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places.

APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases.

The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
  • Related academic or work experience
  • The quality of the personal statement
  • A strong academic or other professional references
  • A combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit though we cannot guarantee an offer in each case. In such cases, approval by the Royal College of Music will be required prior to final acceptance into the programme.

An English Language proficiency* of at least:

Entry Into IELTS TOEFL - iBT PTE ACADEMIC DUOLINGO
BA (Honours) 5.5 71 42 95

Other qualifications equivalent to any of the above.

*Waived for NAFA applicants who have successfully completed NAFA’s Diploma in Music or Diploma in Music Teaching. Non-NAFA applicants who have successfully completed a recognised and approved Diploma qualification or higher, where the language of instruction was English, may be given a waiver on a case-by-case basis.

 


How to Apply

Take the leap! Begin the journey to becoming a world-class musician.

Apply online
Apply online 2 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. The application is extended to 15 May 2024.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents for verification within five working days from the application date at:

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Campus 1 (Admissions counter at level 1)
80 Bencoolen Street
Singapore 189655

Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays

Alternatively, you can email a copy of the required documents to [email protected].

Required documents for verification:
  1. NRIC for Singapore Citizens (SC) or Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR), passport and valid Student’s Pass card (if applicable) for international students
  2. English qualifications (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL iBT), if applicable
  3. Certified true copies of academic certificates and transcripts:
    • For NAFA Diploma students
      • If you are currently in your final semester, please submit your Year 3 Semester 1 academic transcript

    • For Local Polytechnic Diploma students
      • If you are currently in your final semester, please submit your academic transcripts of your first 5 semesters. Subsequently, please submit your Diploma certificate and full academic transcript (all semesters) within 5 working days from the official release date
    • For other international qualifications
      • Please submit your most recent school examination or preliminary examination results, which must be certified by your school if you have not received your final results. Subsequently, please submit your final results and certificate within 5 working days from the official release date

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students. Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application.

Receive an email

You will receive an email from the Student Admissions Office on the details of your audition upon receipt of all required documents.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.