Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

Candidates for both the MMus and MA are normally expected to hold a good honours (at least 2:2) degree, or its overseas equivalent, in a subject area relevant to the demands of the programme.

In addition to the general entry requirements listed above, candidates will preferably already have:

The potential to represent the sound of an orchestral score on the piano
The ability to work encouragingly and effectively with others, including as part of a larger team
Adaptability to a range of musical styles, and to a variety of rehearsal and performance situations
Some experience of playing for a range of dance styles, including classical ballet, is desirable but not essential

English Language Requirements

The language of study is English. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of proficiency in English.

We accept the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Level 6.0 (with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component) is required of applicants to the School of Music.

Full details of the English language tests and equivalencies we accept can be found on our English Language Requirements page.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Piano for Dance programme is an innovative postgraduate degree, delivered in partnership with Scottish Ballet.

Utilising the resources and facilities of both RCS and Scottish Ballet, this programme offers a unique mix of professional tutelage and practical application, aimed at supporting the needs of each individual student. Pianists aspiring to work within the professional dance sector receive regular mentoring from industry-established dance musicians and teachers. The programme also offers the opportunity to gain a wide range of appropriate experience, working within a professional environment alongside Scottish Ballet’s artistic staff and dancers.

From the earliest stages of training, students play for all aspects of work with RCS and Scottish Ballet, in dance classes, rehearsals and education projects.

Additionally, you will study exam syllabus work, collaborative piano skills, dance forms, dance vocabulary and core ballet and class repertoire. This helps you to develop the skills needed to give the dancers and teachers the necessary musical support in class work and rehearsals.

Solid piano technique is vital and you will also have access to regular lessons with tutors from the Keyboard department, reinforcing aspects of piano technique, keyboard harmony and repertoire.

The Piano for Dance course provides a balance between supported learning and practical application. Our partnership with Scottish Ballet allows our students to experience the realities of the professional world, whilst having the security of the experienced teaching faculty to support their continued learning.

There is a chronic lack of skilled dance pianists and it is gratifying that all our previous students have found work within the dance world.

Information for international students

You can find information for international students on our dedicated webpage.

Fees and funding

UK students

13308

International students

28401

For academic year 2025/26:

MMus

Full-time:

Home: £13,308

International: £28,401

Part-time:

Home: £6,654

MA:

Home: £18,483

International: £36,283

Please note these fees are subject to change.

Funding & Scholarships

You can find out about the funding and scholarships available for studying at RCS by visiting our dedicated page.

Cost of Living & Programme Costs

In addition to tuition fees, it is estimated that you will need between £11,200 and £15,300 per year to live in Glasgow, plus programme costs. Much will depend on your lifestyle and whether your course runs for three or four terms.

Programmes within the School of Music have a range of associated costs related to the specific activities required and advised by the programme team. You can find an indication of these costs here.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

MMus
full time
24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
MA
full time
12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

The MMus is the standard two-year programme undertaken by most students.

The MA is a shortened version of the programme for students who wish to get a Masters degree in a single year of study.

The first three terms of the MMus and MA are identical: MA students complete a further module in term 4 to complete the degree in a single year. There is no difference in the nature of the degrees: both concentrate mainly on performance rather than academic work.

It may be possible to study MMus Piano for Dance part-time, over three or four years. However this is highly exceptional and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you are interested in studying MMus Piano for Dance on a part-time basis, please get in touch with our admissions team: hello@rcs.ac.uk to explore this possibility.

No MA programme may be taken part-time. Additionally, international students on student visas are not permitted to undertake any of the part-time routes.

Course contact details

Name: Admissions
Email: admissions@rcs.ac.uk

Visit website

MMus/MA Piano for Dance