Classical String Performance

Entry requirements

Primary degree in a suitable discipline with first or second class honours or an approved equivalent qualification (Primary degree: Level 8 - National Qualifications Authority of Ireland), or an equivalent capability based on prior professional experience.

A performance audition, either in person or through audio or video recording, is required for all applicants. An interview will be required in all cases. Additional materials may be requested at the discretion of the course director.

*Please note that auditions may take place in person or online (students from abroad).

Months of entry

September

Course content

This unique 2-year Masters course focuses on the needs of the individual student and is aimed at gifted string players as the final step towards a professional career. Refining solo, chamber music, orchestral skills, and audition preparation, whilst developing a greater awareness of the importance of the body, creativity & all-round musicianship, students are encouraged to explore their own ‘personal path’ towards realising their full musical potential.

The Irish World Academy’s Master of Arts in Classical String Performance is offered in association with the Irish Chamber Orchestra (ICO). The ICO is world-renowned for its vibrant approach to creative chamber music-making, which also lies at the heart of this MA programme. The programme is led by Principal players of the ICO, who rehearse, tutor and perform with the students.

Students receive weekly individual lessons, regular technique classes, weekly chamber music classes and other weekly specialized workshops and sessions.

Specialised tuition is offered in a wide range of performance practice aspects including audition techniques, orchestral excerpts, baroque and contemporary music, Dalcroze Eurhythmics & creative embodied performance development, and other real-life requirements. The programme also includes regular sessions with a pianist, including intensive coaching weeks on duo sonata repertoire.

In addition to the core skills, an eclectic range of elective subjects are offered. These include multimedia, improvisation, traditional Irish music, gamelan, somatic movement, composition and many more.

MA Classical String Performance students present solo or chamber music repertoire in an ongoing series of concerts through Limerick and the surrounding area, and gain automatic acceptance onto the Irish Chamber Orchestra Academy Project – an exciting, annual collaboration project involving elite students from around the world and members of the ICO.

Information for international students

• Postgraduate Entry Requirements for International Students
• English Language Requirements

Contact ULGlobal@ul.ie for further information.