Master of Music (Performance and Pedagogy)

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MAMUP

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$45,500

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115934J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed Bachelor of Music or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

Additional requirements

Applicants must submit a high-quality DVD of varying and contrasting work of 25 minutes duration to the Elder Conservatorium of Music. The DVD should include four or more music pieces of different styles or by different composers and a letter of verification from the music teacher or qualified person confirming that the performance is a true representation of the applicant's own work. Classical voice applicants must present works in four languages: English, French, German and Italian. The recording must clearly state the date on which the recording was made and whether it represents a live performance, commercial release or radio broadcast.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Music (Performance and Pedagogy)?

Do you dream of turning your passion for music into an exciting career? Develop the skills of a first-class teaching artist, combining intensive training in instrumental and voice pedagogy with development of your performance skills.

Gain advanced performance techniques that set you apart from the rest. Combine performance studies with the theory, method and practice of teaching. Advance your technical mastery in one-on-one lessons with experts.

Shape the future of music and make your musical dreams a reality. Become both a skilled performer and effective educator. Be prepared to pursue dual careers in music performance and education.

Overview

The Master of Music (Performance and Pedagogy) at Adelaide University helps you master both performing and teaching music. You’ll sharpen your musical skills, learn advanced techniques, and develop a strong stage presence. Explore music theory and learn how to communicate your passion for music, ready to engage and connect with audiences and students.

You’ll also practise your skills through delivering teaching through supervised music education projects. Learn directly from top musicians and gain practical skills that prepare you for a successful career.

Be prepared for diverse roles in the music world. Maybe as a solo artist, an orchestra member, or a music teacher. You’ll not only perform but also inspire others and make a real difference in the music community. Develop high-level technical and artistic abilities. Gain familiarity with a wide range of musical works to effectively build your studio.

Key features

Get personalised, one-on-one weekly lessons with expert performance staff.
Undertake a significant research project on learning and teaching processes.
Gain hands-on experience through teaching practice.
Build pedagogical skills and knowledge through seminars and workshops.
Access exclusive performances, workshops and projects.
Graduate ready to pursue dual careers in music performance and education.

What you'll learn

Elevate your musical talents with the Master of Music (Performance and Pedagogy) at Adelaide University. Combine performance and teaching, preparing you for a dynamic career in the music world. Set yourself up to excel both on stage and in the teaching studio.

Develop advanced performance techniques, deepen your understanding of music theory, and learn to engage audiences with confidence and creativity.

You’ll study an exciting blend of performance and pedagogy courses every year. In the first year, you’ll perform two minor recitals with pedagogy related themes. In the second year, you’ll showcase your talent with a major lecture recital.

Individual lessons are provided each year to help you refine your skills. You’ll also explore pedagogy in greater depth through seminars, workshops, and real-world teaching practice. You’ll address issues like performance psychology and technology in music education. You’ll also learn how to create structured learning plans for individual students or music programs.

Assessments include recitals, written assignments, and hands-on teaching practise.

Benefit from collaborations with industry partners and gain valuable real-world skills transferable to a range of careers.

Our degree will help you carve out a unique path in music, whether as a performer or an educator.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

96 units for all Core courses

Complete 96 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Pedagogy Research Seminar IV	Course code MUSI5000	Units 12
Course name Pedagogy Practicum IV	Course code MUSI5001	Units 12
Course name Performance and Pedagogy IV A	Course code MUSI5002	Units 12
Course name Performance and Pedagogy IV B	Course code MUSI5003	Units 12
Course name Pedagogy Research Seminar V	Course code MUSI6000	Units 12
Course name Pedagogy Practicum V	Course code MUSI6001	Units 12
Course name Performance and Pedagogy V	Course code MUSI6002	Units 24

Career outcomes

Adelaide University will prepare you to shine on stage and captivate audiences with every performance. You can pursue dual careers as a performer in solo, chamber, or orchestral settings and as a music educator across various learning environments.

Your career could take you to diverse roles such as a performer or music teacher in private studios, schools or colleges. You could be the visionary behind a popular music festival, curating unforgettable performances and bringing global talent to the stage.

Potential career paths also include:

Composer for TV or film
Conductor
Ensemble director
Musician
Music coordinator
Music critic
Music educator
Music journalist
Performer
Singer.

Wherever your passion takes you, this degree equips you with the skills and connections to succeed.

Industry trends

In Australia, the music market employs over 300,000 people across various sectors (Australian Institute of Music, 2023), from live music and venues to independent artists. There's a rising trend toward ‘portfolio’ careers, where professionals blend multiple roles, such as performing in an orchestra while running a private music studio or teaching and performing chamber music. With an Adelaide University degree, you’ll be equipped with the skills to pursue multiple careers of interest in the music industry.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: