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BMus (Hons) Jazz

  • Award:

    BMus (Hons) Jazz

  • Awarding body:

    University of South Wales 

  • Location of study:

    Cardiff (RWCMD and Old Library) 

  • Start date:

    19 September 2027

  • Duration:

    Four years full time

  • Course code:

    310F - UCAS Conservatoires

Introduction


Performing, composing and collaborating are at the heart of our jazz training at Wales’s national conservatoire, equipping you with the skills and experience to build a career in music.

Inspired by the ever-changing needs of the jazz performer and composer, this four-year BMus (Hons) Jazz course covers the main performance disciplines associated with the genre: vocal, instrumental and composition. You will study alongside some of the UK’s best jazz musicians as part of your personalised, one-to-one tuition and group classes.

Introduction to the Jazz department with Head of Department, Andrew Bain

Why choose the BMus Jazz course at RWCMD?

Train at one of the best music conservatoires in the UK
RWCMD is considered one of the UK's top music conservatoires. From day one, you’ll work with experienced industry professionals to develop your technique, confidence and artistic voice. You’ll explore different styles and specialisms, preparing you for a diverse and sustainable career in music.

Specialist tuition from leading industry professionals
Your music training includes weekly one-to-one and group lessons in your main area of study, known as your 'principal study'. Our impressive list of tutors includes some of the UK’s leading jazz artists, all of whom are active contemporary jazz composers and acclaimed instrumentalists or vocalists. They offer you not only first-rate individual teaching, but also ensemble coaching, group teaching, mentorship and networking opportunities.

Performance opportunities from day one
From your first term, you’ll take part in a wide range of performances, from concerts and ensembles to masterclasses and cross-disciplinary projects. These experiences are integral to your development, building your confidence and versatility as a performer.

Industry links and real-world experience
As Wales’s national conservatoire, we’ve built strong partnerships with leading arts organisations, giving you access to placements that connect your training to the real world. These opportunities with some of the most respected names in the business help lay the groundwork for a lasting and successful career in today’s music industry.

A welcoming, collaborative conservatoire community
You can collaborate with students from across the College, from acting to design, building the skills and confidence to work creatively across different art forms.

Train in a vibrant arts centre environment
Renowned international artists visit our campus every year as part of our public performance programme. You can experience these events for free or at a reduced rate, as well as take part in masterclasses, which are exclusive to our students.

Activities to support your future career
To help you gain employability skills and build a career after you graduate, we offer professional development activities, talks and specialist guidance every term. You'll also be encouraged to organise your own live performances, developing vital entrepreneurial skill alongside your music training.

Live in Wales's capital city
Cardiff is a friendly, affordable, and creative place to live. As a student, you will be part of a thriving music and arts scene, with major venues on your doorstep and chances to get involved in performances, community outreach, and professional events.

What you'll study – BMus Jazz course structure

Our BMus Jazz course combines conservatoire training with specialist modules designed for musicians who want to build a professional career in jazz.

To help you develop as a confident, well-rounded and employable musician, your principal study includes a wide variety of training and experiences. Alongside your one-to-one lessons, you’ll take part in performance classes, ensemble rehearsals, practical classes, workshops, studio sessions, lectures, seminars, group projects, as well as get the chance gain work experience.

Studying in small groups, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the history and philosophy of jazz, and explore its repertoire across a wide range of genres and sub-genres. You’ll also develop an awareness of new media and evolving trends in the industry.

You can specialise in any of the following instruments as part of your course:

  • Bass
  • Drums
  • Flute
  • Guitar
  • Piano
  • Saxophone
  • Trombone
  • Trumpet
  • Voice

Connecting with the public in and outside of RWCMD
Ensemble playing is a key part of your training. You’ll perform regularly in front of audience at College gigs and events - or as part of Cardiff’s flourishing jazz scene.

Explore an inclusive selection of music
In our society and music classes, you’ll discover how music has been used to drive social change, exploring the key factors behind the creation of diverse repertoires. Exploring a more inclusive range of music, you’ll study works by LGBTIQA+ artists, as well as Black, Asian and ethnically diverse composers and artists.

Regular assessment and feedback to help you grow as a musician
To support your development as a musician, the course includes regular assessment. Getting comfortable with ongoing feedback and self-reflection is key to your growth as an artist.

All of these elements, combined with networking and placements with some of the most respected organisations in the business, lay the groundwork for a lasting, successful career in today’s music industry.

Over the course of your degree, you’ll need to complete 180 credits at level 4, 180 at level 5, and 120 at level 6 to graduate with a BMus (Hons) Music degree, validated by the University of South Wales.

Testimonials

'This course is constantly developing in a way that’s highly beneficial to students wanting to get the most they can out of their playing. Working with leading UK Jazz musicians, it's a course that keeps on giving.'
Cameron Saint
‘Cardiff is a great place to study Jazz, with amazing gig opportunities and a close-knit community. The BMus Jazz course is very welcoming and supportive of everyone’s musical tastes and experiences. The syllabus includes a wide range of genres to study throughout the four years so you leave with an extensive knowledge of Jazz and other similar styles.’
Antigone Blackwell
'My time at RWCMD has been incredibly revealing for myself in what I want from a career in the modern industry. Having the space to learn from fellow musicians at the top of the British and European music scene alongside the support of fellow students, has been invaluable for my individual development, not only as a professional but also as a friend and mentor.'
Sam Green
'I’m so grateful for the support, insight and encouragement I received studying at the Royal Welsh College. My first attempt at writing for a big band, led to me winning the Eddie Harvey Jazz Arranger Award – a testament to the expertise and encouragement of my tutors.'
Luke Harney
‘Wales is a place of such creativity that sees the arts as something for everyone to take part in. That ethos is a part of the College and sets it apart.’
Errollyn WallenComposer and RWCMD Artist in Residence

Musical performance and collaboration opportunities

  • Ensemble playing is a vital part of your training. You’ll perform regularly in front of audiences at a variety of gigs held in our award-winning facilities, including the Dora Stoutzker Hall, our flagship concert venue. Whether you join smaller collaborations, perform in a big band, sing in the jazz choir, or work alongside students in drama or musical theatre productions, there are plenty of opportunities to develop your skills.
  • Every week, you also can take part in planning, presenting and performing for the public at our student-led jazz club, Amser Jazz Time. This not only allows you to build your entrepreneurial skills but gives you a platform to share your work with new audiences.
  • Outside of the College, you’ll have the chance to work with local communities, as diverse as performing in Cardiff’s range of jazz clubs or facilitating workshops in local schools.
  • Your end of year performance assessment is a real-life professional experience performing in our annual jazz festival, which offers you the opportunity to perform on a professional stage.
  • Throughout your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to take masterclasses with internationally recognised artists visiting our campus. These sessions offer personal tuition, insights into the business and a chance to expand your network – vital to succeeding as a freelancer in the music industry.
  • Our students are encouraged to take part in external competitions throughout their time here. Major events – such as BBC Cardiff Singer of the World and World Stage Design – have also been hosted on our campus.

Our departments and areas of study

Frequently asked questions

Need advice before applying?

Our admissions team are happy to help with any questions about entry requirements, auditions or life at RWCMD. Email admissions@rwcmd.ac.uk to get started.

Ready to begin your conservatoire journey?

Join a community of passionate, talented musicians at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. Whether you’re preparing for a career in the creative industries or looking to shape the future of music education, your path starts here.

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