MA Sonic Arts

Leeds Beckett University

COURSE OVERVIEW

Develop your theoretical understanding, technical skills and creative practice in the emerging field of sonic arts through a series of lectures, seminars and workshops which aim to challenge preconceptions surrounding musical composition, performance and sound art.

You will explore varied approaches to sound practice through exposure to modern ideas and techniques in the areas of electroacoustic music, spatial sound, contemporary music thinking and sound interactivity. You will have the chance to investigate new software and hardware tools, inquire into the ideas and practical work of the most influential contemporary music thinkers, such as John Cage, Pierre Schaeffer and Brian Eno, and produce a variety of creative artefacts to begin building your own music and sound repertoire.

The course is delivered by a team of practitioners, whose work at the forefront of this field enjoy critical acclaim at an international level, and who will support you in preparing for a career in sound or further study.

You will be taught by subject experts such as composer Dr Nikos Stavropoulos, whose work is regularly awarded at international competitions and who has presented around the world, and Kingsley Ash, whose live performances and interactive installations feature at international events and major exhibition spaces around the country.

As well as working directly with your tutors, you will have the opportunity to interact with established artists through guest lectures and workshops and our artist in residence programme. Previous visiting artists have included BBC sound recordist Chris Watson, electronic music group UTAH Saints and Twin Peaks sound designer Kim Cascone.

You will also have access to a suite of high quality, professional music studios, approved by JAMES - the accrediting body of the Music Producers' Guild and the Association of Professional Recording Services.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.