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Skoða vefinn á Íslensku

Music x Innovation x Technology B.Mus

 

Multifaceted, progressive, rhythmic performance training

 

The goal of the program is to train students in a broad range of musical skills so that they can create their own niche, excel, and flourish in the ever-changing musical environment of the 21st century.

  • Open for applications

    10. February 2025

  • Application deadline

    April 8th, 2025

  • Applications answered

    May / June 2025

  • Registration fee

    More information

  • Name of programme

    Music Innovation Technology B.Mus

  • Name of degree

    B. Mus

  • Units

    180 ETC

  • Duration of study

    6 semesters – 3 years

About the programme

The Music, Innovation, Technology program is a dynamic, modern and progressive learning environment designed to meet the diverse needs of contemporary musicians. A wide range of performance studies in rhythmic music is offered: jazz; rock/pop; songwriting and lyric writing; and sound art, sound processing and sound technology for non-traditional instruments. However, the main focus is on providing high-quality guidance in the areas that are most important when it comes to working in today's ever-changing and diverse music world. In this way, students develop comprehensive skills and the ability to excel when the profession takes over. The program is flexible, encouraging a personal artistic approach, while at the same time offering professional collaboration and cooperation not only across study programs and departments within the Academy of the Arts, but across and within the university environment as a whole. In this way, students' artistic horizons increase and their understanding deepens. Close connections with the working environment of professional musicians and encouragement for lifelong learning further enable them to develop their music in line with contemporary trends and trends. Teachers, who are working and leading artists in their fields, communicate their experience in a tangible way directly to students throughout the entire program, thus maximizing the quality of the study.

Study structure

The program is a three-year BMus (Performance) program (180 ECTS). Five competency standards have been specifically defined and are taught across focus areas: musicology and acoustics, critical artistic vision, knowledge of the music working environment, creative music through the latest technology, and the ability to establish and maintain collaboration with other musicians and artists at home and abroad. These skills are trained in an innovative and diverse way through courses, collaborative groups and special projects of various kinds. There will also be frequent visits from domestic and foreign musicians and artists who will share their wisdom and art with students in a dynamic format.

After graduation

At the end of the program, students will have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to tackle the many exciting projects that the contemporary music environment has to offer and create a unique position for themselves with a personal and progressive style. The degree provides access to continuing studies in music at the master's level, whether in the field of performance, teaching, or any kind of innovation in music.

Application and admission process

An application for studies at the Iceland Academy of the Arts is completed in the application portal. The application process consists of two steps: in the first step, the application is completed with supporting documents and the application fee is paid. The second step is the admissions process.

Open for applications

10. February 2025

Application deadline

April 8th, 2025

Applications answered

May / June 2025

Price list

More information

Instructions

The applicant must fill out an electronic application in the application portal. The application must be accompanied by the following supporting documents:

  • 1. introductory letter or video

    Required

    A cover letter or equivalent material in video format, a minimum of 300 words, describing their artistic vision and goals, as well as a statement that they are committed to pursuing studies according to the requirements set for students at the university level.

  • 2. Diploma

    duty

    Applicants are asked to submit a certified copy of their high school diploma as well as a curriculum vitae from a music school, if applicable. Scan originals of diplomas and attach them to the application.  Get a certified copy of the diplomas with a stamp from the relevant school, scan and attach to the application. Get a certified copy of your previous music studies if applicable (copy of the most recent level exam that has been completed) with a stamp from the relevant school, scan and attach to the application. 

  • 3. Links

    Required

    The application must be accompanied by links to a video recording, either with two original songs/works that illustrate their personal approach to music, or free improvisation (note: the applicant must be visible in the recording at all times and the recording must not be edited anywhere).

Admission process

Admission process takes place in three stages.

  • 1. Evaluation of submitted supporting documents

    Required

    The admissions committee evaluates the applicants' submitted transcripts and cover letters.

  • 2. Auditions and interviews

    duty

    Those applicants who have been selected to continue are invited for an interview and audition in accordance with their preferred area of ​​focus (note: the admissions committee may, in some cases and after the audition, recommend that the applicant change their area of ​​focus).

    Interviews and auditions will take place on Monday, May 12th and can be expected to last 30 minutes for each applicant.

    a) jazz

    The applicant plays two jazz standards that differ in style and tempo (from a jazz songbook) plus one Icelandic song in a jazz style or their own composition. Accompaniment will be provided, but song names and sheet music must be sent five days in advance.

    b) pop/rock

    The applicant performs two songs (covers or original songs) on their main instrument (or sung) that are representative of their personal approach to music (with their own live accompaniment, with a recording accompaniment, with their own band, or looper, etc.). If none of the above applies, accompaniment will be offered, but a so-called "lead sheet" must be sent five days in advance.

    c) songwriting and lyric writing

    The applicant performs three original songs on their primary instrument or in a manner that reflects their personal musical approach. Lyrics in pdf format must be included.

    d) rhythmic sound art

    The applicant performs a piece on their primary instrument (which could be a controller or other device), original or not. The original composition should reflect the applicant's personal musical approach. Free improvisation is also encouraged.

  • 3. Results announced

    Application results are announced in May/June 2025.

Admission requirements

A high school diploma is required for admission, but no formal music education is required.