Each of the major specialised areas of music research (performance; composition, arranging, and sound design; and musicology, ethnomusicology, and music curatorship) have their own methodological traditions, and commonly applied conceptual approaches. While these musical fields certainly have different profiles and orientations, they nevertheless share some important issues and common methodological ground.

This course challenges the tendencies of fragmentation in music research where academic and artistic research is developed within different spheres. It will explore the nexus between various areas of musical scholarship giving students the opportunity to actively engage with, and critique, a key approaches to research.

Upon successful completion of this course, student will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand and evaluate basic research methods in music across the many sub-disciplines in music.
2. Apply a range of basic perspectives to music-related research and understand the symbiotic relationship between research and practice.
3. Integrate understandings of basic research methods with the student's own musical areas of study.
4. Communicate and debate basic themes, concepts and theories with peers.

Critical responses to discussions and reading, 300 words for each of weeks 3 to 12, 3000 words, 5% each, total 50% [Learning Outcomes 1, 2, 3]

Seminar participation 10% [Learning Outcomes 3-4]

Presented formal paper. Topic to be negotiated with course coordinator. Time limit 20 mins, 2500-3000 words, plus ten minute question time (35% paper, 5% question time; total 40%) [All Learning Outcomes]

NOTE: Attendance at a minimum of ten seminars is a hurdle requirement for passing this course.

One three-hour seminar per week in the School of Music Research Seminar plus 7 hours of private study.

Prerequisite: Completion of a major in music, music practice, music performance, creative and professional practice, or music inquiry.

See Requisite Statement.