Overview
Aimed at performers and composers with highly developed skills and focused career aspirations, the Academy's Research Degree programme offers an integrated MPhil/PhD degree over four years (with the fourth year acting as a 'writing up' year). Driven by practical performance or composition activity, it requires critical context and reflection, providing 30 hours of supervision per year. Transfer to PhD status normally happens at the end of the second year, though students can choose to exit with an MPhil at that stage.
You will work with an individual supervisor and a team of creative staff at the Academy to develop your work through engaging in a substantial research project. This will normally be directly connected to and driven by your creative activity as a performer or composer but will also require you to establish a research context and undertake a process of investigation and critical reflection.
Students on the programme also attend seminars (about once every two weeks) which involve presentations by staff and students, as well as by visiting speakers engaged in practice-driven projects. These seminars provide a creative space for the testing and discussion of ideas amongst the supervisory team and fellow students; they offer an environment for exploring both the artistic output of the project as well as shaping the critical context in which you are working.
We do provide one-to-one lesson support where appropriate to individual students or projects.
Auditions & Assessment
We want you to view your audition as a recital rather than a rigid test. Our panel is looking for your unique musical personality, your technical mastery, and your potential for high-level artistic research. Try to relax, focus on your communication, and let us hear who you are as a researcher-performer.
The Doctoral research selection process consists of two stages: a Round One digital portfolio screening followed by a Round Two practical audition and research interview.
Your Audition Repertoire & Proposal (Round One)
To apply for the Research performance pathway, you must submit a comprehensive digital portfolio via the Acceptd portal by the designated deadline. Your submission must contain:
- Video Recording: A performance video lasting approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The repertoire should be a free choice but should ideally relate to or complement your proposed research field.
- The Research Proposal: A detailed written proposal (usually 1,000 to 2,000 words) outlining your research questions, methodology, literature review, and how your practice embeds into the project.
- Academic Documentation: A full Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a copy of your Master's dissertation or an equivalent sample of academic writing.
What to Expect at the Audition Recall (Round Two)
Following a successful evaluation of your digital portfolio, you will be invited to a Round Two recall. You can state in your application profile whether you prefer to complete this recall in person in London or online.
1. Practical Audition (London)
For those attending in person, you will perform a live practical recital for the specialist research panel. The panel may choose to hear selected extracts of your prepared pieces to ensure they can evaluate your technical command and stylistic interpretation within the allocated session time.
2. The Research Interview
All shortlisted candidates participate in a formal interview with the Postgraduate Research committee. This comprehensive discussion will focus on:
- The critical framework, feasibility, and originality of your written research proposal.
- The direct relationship between your performance practice and your academic research goals.
- Your academic writing capability and knowledge of the wider context of your study.
Guidelines for Remote / Video Applicants
If you are applying from outside the UK and cannot attend the live sessions in London, your Round Two assessment will be handled via digital platforms.
- The Spoken Video Introduction: All remote applicants must include a short spoken introduction recording in English within their Acceptd profile, summarizing their artistic background and research motivations.
- Online Interview: Your live practical video from Round One will form the basis of your performance assessment. You will then attend a comprehensive online research interview via Zoom, mirroring the rigour and scope of the London format.
Please note: Specimen academic tests are not distributed in advance. Your initial registration pathway (MPhil or PhD) and any specific supervision arrangements will be discussed and clarified with the research panel during your interview.
For more information see auditions.