Professional Performance

Entry requirements

A postgraduate qualification (preferably Master's level), normally (but not necessarily) specialising in performance and/or substantial, verifiable public performance experience at a professional level

You will need to demonstrate that you're able to perform at a professional level and should submit a biography and list of performances at the time of application.

You will need to demonstrate an awareness of what is required of the performer wishing to forge a successful professional career in the 21st century, and an open mind about developing your own portfolio of relevant skills and experiences, making clear your rationale for further study.

Applications are normally subject to a two-stage audition process with a preliminary round in November, and a final round in January. Please contact us before making an application.

For full details, audition requirements and audition advice, please visit the Music Auditions section of the Conservatoire website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Support your developing career as a professional performer with Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's post-Master's Advanced Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Performance. You can choose one of seven specialisms: Instrumental Performance, Vocal Performance, Collaborative Piano, Organ Performance, Chamber Music Performance, Opera Repetiteurship or Choral Conducting.

Our Advanced Postgraduate Diploma (APD) is at 'post-masters level' and is ideal for you if you are an advanced postgraduate performer who already has a Masters degree and are beginning to accept professional engagements. The course will help you to raise your performance standards to the next level, with highly specialised one-to-one tuition in the department most relevant to your specialism. You can study full-time over 12 months (September-September) or part-time (2 years).

The Professional Performance APD allows you to take on performance engagements both within and outside Royal Birmingham Conservatoire as part of your course. Assessment focuses on your work in professional contexts, via a Professional Performance Portfolio module and a choice of External Engagement and Professional Project modules. We also provide a Career Management and Self-Promotion module designed to help you deal with those niggling, but vital, non-performance aspects of your professional career.

If you're a home or EU student you have the option to study part-time, which allows you to take the course alongside your already-developing career. Assessment focuses on your work in professional contexts, both within the Conservatoire and externally, and we also provide a Career Management and Self-Promotion module designed to help you deal with those niggling, but vital, non-performance aspects of your professional career.

Information for international students

IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands or its equivalent.

Fees and funding

Learn more about postgraduate fees and funding.