Graduate Diploma in Music (GD-MUS)

The Graduate Diploma in Music is designed for university graduates in any field who wish to undertake university-level study in music. The program draws together subjects from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music's existing degree programs, and may be taken part-time or full-time.

Composition Specialisation: Students will acquire skills in instrumental and vocal writing, orchestration, electro-acoustic music, professional score presentation, rehearsal skills and concert management, alongside the development of a personal and original voice. Encouraging composition in all styles, students will work through all phases of the composition process, from first ideas to completion of a professionally presented score and interaction with performers in rehearsals, culminating in a public performance. Students can also choose from a range of electives, including ensembles, conducting, academic and applied skills, to complement the composition focus.

Ethnomusicology Specialisation: Students will acquire the skills and techniques of music ethnography. They will conceive, plan and complete a dissertation, and present a paper at a conference organised by the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music midway through the two semesters of enrolment. To support the writing of the dissertation, students will undertake the subject The Ethnography of Music, where discussion will centre on key issues – both historical and current - in ethnomusicology. Topics include ethnographic representation, fieldwork methods, ethical issues in field research, and connecting musical analysis with cultural analysis. Students will be assisted to become “experts” in a case study in an area of interest to them. Students will also choose from a range of academic and non-Western ensemble elective subjects relevant to their area of research and interest.

Musicology Specialisation: Students will acquire the skills and techniques of musicological research, including such issues as music bibliography, editorial and archival practices, as well as the mechanics of dissertation writing. They will conceive, plan and complete a dissertation, and present a paper at a conference organised by the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music mid-way through the two semesters of enrolment. To support the writing of the dissertation, students will undertake a Music Research subject, introducing them to current issues in musicology and the variety of resources and methodologies available for musicological research. Students will also choose academic elective subjects relevant to their area of research and interest.

Practical Music Specialisation: Students will develop instrumental, vocal or conducting technique to a level appropriate to a fourth year of study and a sophisticated awareness of the stylistic and interpretative characteristics of the repertory studies. Students will also take a number of ensemble electives to expand their practical experience. Subjects in Music Language, Aural Studies and historical, cultural and contextual studies add breadth and depth to the musical studies.

Tailored Program: Students will develop skills and techniques appropriate to their musical interests and vocational aspirations. Students will be supported in designing a personalised course of study choosing from a number of subjects that include academic electives, music analysis, composition and performance studies, as well as career preparation subjects designed to develop skills and knowledge in arts administration and management (including an internship).