Master of Arts in Music

MA Music or Master of Arts in Music is a postgraduate Music course. It is a years program and the course includes a comprehensive study and practice of Music as a discipline at an advanced level. The students have the option to choose between Vocal and Instrumental courses.

Students in the instrumental course can take and specialize in any of the following instruments: Sitar, Sarangi, Veena, Sarod, Dilruba, Violin, Bansuri, Shahnai, Guitar, Tabla, and Santoor. The Master of Arts in Music program includes the study of music theory, music interpretation, and music history, as well as the development of strong musical (vocal and instrumental) talents in students. Candidates who complete the Master of Arts in Music program have several work opportunities in cultural and heritage settings.

MA Music Admission Process

The admission process in most of the institutions offering this course is conducted either through an entrance exam or is merit-based.

In merit-based admission, the candidates are evaluated based on their previous academic records. But in such cases, the candidates will have to go through an audition, where they can show their expertise.

Universities like Ramjas College, Daulat Ram College, Miranda House, University of Madras, and Andhra University offer merit-based admission.

In the Entrance exam-based admission, the candidates are expected to secure the cut-off mark in the entrance examination, which the specific university or college also specifies.

Institutes like Tripura University, Bangalore University, BHU, University of Kerala, conduct entrance exam-based admission.

Depending on the institute, interviews and auditions will also be taken based on the selection done through the entrance exam or merit-based method.

How To Get Admission to MA Music?

Students must ensure that they satisfy the eligibility criteria for an MA in Music in India. MA Music admission 2021 is done through entrance exam scores or on a merit basis. Admission procedures may vary across different MA Music universities in India. The course falls under the umbrella of an MA degree and therefore, follows a similar admission process.

How to Apply?

MA Music course details and procedures for admission can be found on the college's official websites. To apply for the course, visit the official university admission portal and register for the entrance exam. After that fill out the application form by providing the required details.

Selection Process

Admission is strictly offered to only those students who clear the MA in Music eligibility criteria. The list of shortlisted candidates can be availed through the college’s official website or will be informed via email regarding the result and the further admission process.

Semester Wise MA Music Syllabus

MA Music Semester I Syllabus

• Theory (History and Aesthetics in Music)
• Practice paper I (Stage Performance)

MA Music Semester II Syllabus

• Theory (General and Applied Theory)
• Practice Paper II (Viva – Voce)
• Practice Paper III (Revision of Ragas and Sessional)

MA Music Semester III Syllabus

• Theory (History of Indian Music)
• Practice Paper IV (Stage Performance)

MA Music Semester IV Syllabus

• Theory (Applied Theory and Musical Competitions)
• Practice Paper V (Viva- voce)
• Practice Paper VI (Revision of the Ragas and Sessional)

MA Music Eligibility

Aspiring students should have passed a graduation degree with Honours in Music or Music as one of the subjects studied in graduation from any of the recognized universities/colleges of the country.

Some of the very reputed universities and institutes demand a minimum of 45-50% marks in graduation as qualifying criteria to secure admission in this course and some also conduct entrance examinations to get admission to their MA (Music) degree course.

Selection to the degree course in these colleges is based on marks secured in the final merit i.e. total marks aggregated in the final exams of graduation and the entrance exam.

How to get admission to a good college?

Preferably try to be admitted to a government college or an aided institution. It is an economical option. It is imperative to score good marks in merit and the entrance examination.

Also, try to make a video portfolio for the interview or audition round.

Nowadays, most colleges offer their application form online. Stay updated on when the application form is released and fill it up on time before the deadline.

Ensure that all necessary documents are scanned and attached to the application form. Also, make sure it is available for verification by the college as and when required.

Follow the admission process carefully and ensure that you are aware of any updates regarding it.

Preparing well for the entrance exam is also highly necessary.

MA Music Course Suitability

Candidates with analytical, critical thinking, research, writing, communication, and presenting abilities are best suited for this course.

Second, individuals with memory power, physical dexterity, and communication abilities, as well as teamwork and self-management, are a suitable fit.

Third, people interested in and knowledgeable about concerns and professional ethics in the art world, as well as an appreciation of diverse viewpoints and cultures, are also qualified for this Master's degree program.

They should also be able to think critically, such as offering and taking criticism, learning from mistakes, and striving for better performance.

How is the MA Music Course Beneficial?

A Master of Arts in Music degree is the foundation for additional higher education and research in this discipline, such as a PhD in Music. After completing this degree, a student can apply for the UGC-NET or JRF test; success in these examinations opens up opportunities in teaching or research.

Holders of a Master of Arts in Music degree can apply for positions as music teachers in a variety of music learning institutions.

A degree in music meets the desire of a student who studies for passion and the ethics that the topic of music carries with it.

Above all, music is a global sound capable of eliciting emotions and expressing feelings.

MA Music Document Required

1. Mark Sheets and Passing Certificates of Class 10 and 12
2. School Leaving Certificate/ Transfer Certificate (TC)
3. Proof of Date of Birth (DOB)
4. Caste Certificate if Any.

MA Music Job Types

1. Art Director
2. Advertising Specialist
3. Artist & Repertoire (A&R) Person
4. Band Leader
5. Composer / Arranger
6. Disc Jockey
7. Film Music Director / Editor
8. Musician / Studio Musician
9. Music Teacher / Music Therapist
10. Music Critic / Music Attorney / Music Publisher
11. Producer
12. Recording Technician
13. Singer / Performer

Why Study MA Music?

This course is a comprehensive study of music theory, the cultural history of music, and performance art.

More individual direction, continuous and constant multidisciplinary exposure, the opportunity to focus

If you're looking for a job as a professional musician, this is the best course for you.

It will be a supplement to your existing skills and will help you hone your talent in the field of music.

There are plenty of specialization opportunities that help you focus on your area of interest.

Career Options After MA Music

After completion of the course, the graduates can find jobs in areas like Entertainment Companies, Education Sector, Media Companies, etc. The graduates can even apply for the UGC-NET or JRF exam. Clearing these exams makes a career in teaching or research. Some job roles offered to graduates are:

Advertising Specialist

Art Director

Band Leader

Disc Jockey

Music Attorney

Music Critic