Popular Music Performance BA (Hons)
Develop your talent as a musician and performer through the practical and theoretical study of popular music. Be prepared to study and perform everything from Billy Eilish to Metallica, Stevie Wonder to the Spice Girls, and everything in between. Alongside your musical performance skills, you will have the opportunity to develop further essential aspects of being a musician such as songwriting and arranging, recording techniques, and live music mixing – all of which are essential for working in the current music industry.
Our very practically based course provides a unique opportunity for you to excel in performance while developing a critical mind and becoming an intelligent, multi-skilled and employable musician.
You will study in our fantastic, state of the art rehearsal and performance studios which are kitted out with professional level equipment from Fender, Marshall, Engl, Blackstar, Ampeg, Markbass, Yamaha, Hartke, Mapex, Gretch, Zildjian, Paiste, Mesa Boogie, Shure, Allen and Heath, Sennheiser, Audix, AKG, and many more. Keyboards, Drum Kits, Guitar Amps, Bass Amps, Microphones and PA systems are all available in every room as standard. We also have a large stock of loan equipment for you to use outside of the university which also includes busking amps, lighting systems and many other useful items.
Additional enhancements to the course include links with live music venues, musicians and professionals within the region, as well events such as Creative Futures, where you will gain invaluable insights into the industry from industry professionals, musicians and academics through the delivery of performances, masterclasses and workshops.
Music at the University of Chester
Study the final year of an undergraduate degree
If you have successfully completed a Level 5 qualification, e.g. a Higher National Diploma (HND) or Foundation Degree in a relevant subject, then we may be able to consider you for the final year (Level 6) of one of our degrees. Topping up your HND or Foundation Degree will typically take one further year of study and will lead to a full BA (Honours) degree.
To apply for the final year of a degree on a full-time basis you will need to submit an application through UCAS.
For international applicants, please refer to the entry requirements listed on the "Your Country/Region" pages. To be considered for advanced entry into relevant degree programmes, you must have completed a qualification equivalent to a Level 5 or Level 6 in the UK, in a related subject area
How we teach at the University of Chester
Sessions are delivered via lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials in lecture theatres, and performance spaces, which are equipped with professional equipment.
You will submit a variety of work for summative assessment, including solo and group performances, practical assessments, presentations, recordings, composition portfolios and written essays.
As part of your studies you may take our Work Based Learning module, where you will be fully supported in securing a work placement. You’ll have the chance to test-drive a future career, boost your CV and gain real work experience.
Alternatively, take our Experiential Learning module, where you may have the option of organising, managing, promoting, rehearsing and performing on your own mini tour.
All teaching is delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, with the fundamental principles of the Chester Future Skills Curriculum at its core - building your subject competence, confidence, and key transferable skills to shape you into a world-ready Chester graduate. Teaching is likely to be supplemented by occasional guest lecturers and speakers.
Your Future Career
Job Prospects
Our course develops skills that equip you for a portfolio career as well as other professions; self-discipline; research and analytical skills; organisation and time management; communication skills; drive and motivation; and working independently and collaboratively. Graduate jobs you may go into include: musician; songwriter, music promotions manager; sound engineer; music teacher; or events organiser.
Careers service
The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.
Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.
We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.
Results
Music Performance Studio
Music Recording Studio Control Room
Music Rehearsal Studio
Music Production Suite
Studio
Common Room
Dr Ruth Dockwray
Associate Professor
Kristian Rozells
Senior Lecturer
Jim Mason
Senior Lecturer
Ben Broughton
Head of Division