Bachelor's Programmes

CLASSICAL MUSIC

Classical music

The Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and Composition at the Grieg Academy takes four years and is worth 240 study points (credits).

Besides being trained within your major, you will during the first two years be introduced to music history and music theory, and gain broad musical experience through various courses and projects.

In the third and fourth year you may choose your own courses, in line with your artistic profile and future career goals.

Academic/professional content

The major is focused on:

• Performance/vocal techniques within different genres and epochs
• The performer's independent development
• Techniques for learning and practicing a piece
• Acquaintance with the instrument/voice physiology
• Interpretation and repertoire abilities
• Ensemble performance

Performance skills are an important part of a musician's education, and the course includes: contact with the public, stage presentation and programme arrangement.

Instruction is given in the form of individual supervision, guidance in group tutorials, seminars, master classes, and different ensemble activities.

Our partnership with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra gives the opportunity for both orchestra practice and soloist commissions.

Courses are offered on the following instruments: (Classical major)

Accordion	Clarinet
Recorder	Double Bass
Viola	Oboe
Cello	Organ
Harpsichord	Piano
Euphonium	Saxophone
Bassoon	Vocal
Violin	Percussion
Flute	Trombone
Guitar	Trumpet
Harp	Tuba
French Horn

For organ students, it is possible to complete a Bachelor's course that satisfies the requirements to qualify as a cantor in the Church of Norway. See Church music major.

Structure

Structure of the Classical major:

Year			Study points (credits) = Stp
1.	MUG120 Main instrument 1 30 stp	MUG103 Base disciplines 15 stp	MUG107 Music theory I 15 stp
2.	MUG121 Main instrument 2 30 stp	MUG106 Music history 15 stp	MUG108 Music theory II 15 stp
3.	MUV230 Main instrument 3 or electives 30 stp	Electives 15 stp	Electives 15 stp
4.	MUV231 Main instrument 4 or electives 30 stp	Electives 15 stp	Electives 15 stp

During the first two years, composition will be combined with base disciplines (chord piano, direction, etc.), music history and topics within music theory: aural and study of movements.

In the third and fourth years you may choose electives according to your interests. There are many electives to choose from.

Current electives (subject to annual startup):

• Baroque ensemble
• Contemporary music
• Choir leadership
• Ensemble leadership, band
• Counterpoint/ basso continuo
• Liturgical improvisation
• Liturgical theory and practice
• Chamber music
• Secondary instrument
• Special instrument
• Accompaniment
• Performance skills
• Musical drama (for vocalists)
• Arrangement/instrumentation
• Popular music
• Music in world cultures

Exchange programmes

At the Grieg Academy we encourage our students to attend international exchange programmes during their third year. Exchange programmes provide unique experiences and lifelong memories of both musical and personal nature.

The Department has several exciting agreements with educational institutions in Europe, the U.S., Russia and Asia. The Grieg Academy is an active member of Norplus, which comprises all the Nordic music academies, and of AEC, which comprises those in the rest of Europe. In addition to these exchange opportunities, our students also regularly have the chance to meet visiting teachers from our partner institutions.

It is also possible to travel abroad on exchange programmes offered by the University of Bergen.

Admission

The application deadline for the Bachelor's Programme in Music and Composition is 15 December for studies beginning the following autumn semester, week 33.

Applications are submitted via Søknadsweb ("Application Web") (activated around 15 November).

Admission requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's programme requires generell studiekompetanse (Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate).

As an applicant you must complete and pass auditions on your main instrument. If you apply for the composition major, you must complete various composition tasks.

To qualify for admission you must also pass theory and aural tests.

Theory and aural tests

Applicants to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition must complete and pass theory and aural tests to qualify for admission. Only tests taken the same year may be approved for admission.

All institutions offer these tests to their applicants for the first time in late January/early February. Applicants who have applied for admission at other institutions than the Grieg Academy may still take the test here.

You may alternatively complete the tests during the regular admission weeks at the primary institution you are applying to.

Introductory courses in theory and musical ear are offered to new applicants at the Grieg Academy in January. Course fee: 400 NOK. The registration form is found on the application form you will receive after submitting your application via Søknadsweb, or by e-mail: grieg@hffa.uib.no

Read more about the theory and musical ear test at

http://www.hoyere-musikkutdanning.no/

Musical auditions - Classical Major

For performance and creative studies, there are musical auditions. The auditions are normally held during week 10. After the application deadline, applicants will receive an application form that is to be filled out and returned together with any necessary documentation. The deadline for returning the application form is 5 January.

You will receive written notice of your audition date. You will be informed of the exact time when you arrive. Auditions are normally held during week 10.

Present at the auditions will be a jury consisting of instructors from within the instrument group, as well as one or more student representatives. The student representatives shall ensure that your rights as an applicant are upheld, and that the auditions are fair. All those present at the auditions have a duty of confidentiality. Rules of admission may be downloaded here. [Opptaksreglement.doc]

For vocalists and pianists, there may be two rounds of auditions. All vocalist applicants will perform two songs on the first day; these are specified on the application form. Those who pass to the next round may sing the rest of the audition programme on the second day. Auditions for piano are run in a similar way, but both rounds are usually held on the same day.

The names of the applicants whose auditions are approved will be posted on a bulletin board at the Department after the auditions are over. An approved audition does NOT mean that one is granted admission as a student; the applicants granted admission will be determined shortly after the auditions week. All those who have completed the auditions will receive a letter stating their results in the post. Those who are offered admission must confirm acceptance within 15 April.

Admission requirements for principal study

Applicants may bring their own accompanist. Applicants who require an accompanist from the Grieg Academy must indicate this specifically on the application form and enclose a copy of sheet music for the accompanist. At the actual audition, the accompanist should have the original sheet music at his/her disposal.

Please note: To applicants on all instruments, sight reading, scales and arpeggios may be given

The following repertoire requirements apply for admission to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance within the Classical Genre:

Accordion

1. Obligatory piece: One piece of a technical nature with a degree of difficulty similar to Frosini: Jolly Caballero.
2. One or more self-chosen pieces with a degree of difficulty at least equal to that of Lundquist: Sonatina piccola.
3. Scales and arpeggios of all major and minor keys over three octaves for both hands.

Bass Trombone

See under Trombone.

Recorder

1. Obligatory piece: A sonata for the alto recorder and thoroughbass by G.F. Händel or G. Ph. Telemann
2. A soprano recorder solo piece by J. van Eyck.
3. A self-chosen, contemporary piece.

Viola

1. Obligatory piece: G.Ph. Telemann: Concert in G Major, first and second movements. Played from memory.
2. A fast movement from a Romantic piece.
3. A self-chosen piece played from memory.
4. An studystudy.
5. Scales and arpeggios over three octaves in several major and minor keys (Flesch, Galamian, etc.).

Cello

1. Obligatory piece: J. S. Bach: From Solo Suite No. 1 in G Major, first and second movements.
2. A movement from a Romantic piece.
3. A self-chosen piece.

Harpsichord

1. Obligatory piece: J. S. Bach: Prelude from Partita in B Major, BWV 825.
2. A piece of moderate difficulty by F. Couperin or D. Scarlatti.
3. A self-chosen piece.

Euphonium

1. Obligatory piece: Joseph Horowitz: Concerto for Euphonium, first and second movements or Rolf Wilhelm: Concertino for Euphonium, first and second movements.
2. Two contrasting movements from a Baroque sonata.
3. A self-chosen piece or an étude.
4. Familiarity with the bass clef in C and treble clef in B.

Bassoon

1. Two movements from one of A. Vivaldi's concertos.
2. Two études of moderate difficulty.
3. A self-chosen piece.

Violin

1. Obligatory piece: First movement with cadenza from one of W.A. Mozart or J. Haydn's violin concertos. Played from memory.
2. Obligatory piece: A movement from one of J.S. Bach's solo sonatas. Played from memory.
3. A self-chosen piece of a technical nature, preferably Romantic or contemporary. Played from memory.
4. R. Kreutzer: Étude No. 12 in A Minor or No. 8 in E Major.
5. Scales and arpeggios arpeggios over three octaves in several major and minor keys (Flesch, Galamian etc.).

Flute

1. Obligatory piece: G. F. Händel: Sonata i G Major, first and second movements or J. S. Bach: Largo e dolce from Sonata No. 1 in B Minor, BWV 1030.
2. Obligatory piece: Ph. Gaubert: Nocturne & Allegro Scherzando.
3. A fast movement from a Viennese Classic flute concerto.
4. A self-chosen piece.

Guitar

1. Two études from F. Sor Op. 6 or 29, or M. Carcassi Op. 60.
2. A movement from a suite or sonata for the lute, violin or cello by J. S. Bach.
3. A prelude by H. Villa-Lobos (No. 2, 4 or 5) or A. Carlevaro (Preludios Americanos No. 1, 2 or 5).
4. One or more self-chosen pieces, approx. 10 min. in total.

French Horn

1. Obligatory piece: First and second movement from W.A. Mozart: Concerto in E-flat Major, K. 417, or K. 495.
2. A movement from a Romantic piece.
3. A self-chosen piece.
4. PA transposing test.

Clarinet

1. Obligatory piece: C. M. von Weber: Concertino.
2. Gade: Ballade for clarinet and piano, Op. 43, or a movement from R. Schumann: Fantasy Pieces, Op. 73 .
3. A self-chosen piece.

Clavier

See under Piano.

Double Bass

1. Obligatory piece: H. Eccles: Sonata in G Minor, first movement.
2. An étude of moderate difficulty (Gulbrandsson, Simandl, Hegner etc.)
3. A self-chosen piece.

Cornet

1. Code: Zelda
2. Dr. D. Wright: Cornet Concerto, second movement
3. A self-chosen piece

Oboe

1. Obligatory piece: J. Haydn: Concerto in C Major, first movement.
2. Marcello: First movement from Oboe Concerto in C Minor/D Minor or G.F. Händel: Concerto in G Minor, first and second movements.
3. A self-chosen Romantic or contemporary piece.
4. Ferling: From 48 Études, Op. 31: Ètude No. 6, 8, 10, 12 or 14.

Organ

1. Obligatory piece: D. Buxtehude: Toccata and Fugue in F Major, BuxWV 157.
2. A Baroque piece with a playing time of 5-10 min.
3. A Romantic or contemporary piece with a playing time of 5-10 min.
4. A rehearsed four-part chorale with pedal.

1. Applicants with a piano background and little organ experience may apply to have the admission requirements for organ wholly or partially replaced with that of piano.

Piano

1. Obligatory piece: J.S. Bach: Prelude and Fugue from The Well-Tempered Clavier.
2. One fast and one slow movement from a Viennese Classic sonata (not L.v. Beethoven: Op. 49 No. 1 and 2).
3. A Romantic or Impressionist piece.
4. A self-chosen piece.

It is expected that parts of the programme are performed from memory.

Vocal

1. A song or aria from the Baroque Era.
2. German, French or English romance from the Romantic Era.
3. Two freely chosen songs by Nordic composers. One of these must be composed after 1950.
4. An opera - or oratorio aria.
5. A song without accompaniment.
6. Reading of a self-chosen poem.

On the first audition day, two songs are to be performed: You are required to perform one song from Group 3 and one from Group 4. Please indicate on the application form which two songs you will perform the first day.

Saxophone

1. Obligatory piece: A. Glasunov: Concerto: from the beginning to No. 22 or Bernhard Heiden: Sonata for Alto Saxophone and Piano, first movement (Schott).
2. An étude of moderate difficulty (such as Ferling).
3. A self-chosen work.

Percussion

1. The applicant must prepare a self-chosen programme of up to 20 minutes. The programme shall contain:

• A piece for snare drum
• A piece for timpani
• A piece for melodic percussion
• Possibly also a piece for multi-percussion setup

1. Obligatory piece for snare drum, timpani, melodic percussion and small multi-percussion setup will be sent to applicant approx. 4 weeks prior to the audition.

Trombone

1. Obligatory piece: A. Guilmant: Morceau Symphonique, Op. 88.
2. One of the following pieces: J. E. Galliard: Sonata No. 5; L. E. Larsson: Concertino, Op. 45, No. 7; C. Saint-Saëns: Cavatine, Op. 144; N. Rimsky-Korsakov: Concerto (For trombone and piano.)
3. A self-chosen piece.
4. Familiarity with bass and tenor clef.

Bass Trombone

1. Obligatory piece: A. Lebedev: Concerto in one movement.
2. One of the following pieces: McCarty: Sonata; E. Bozza: Allegro et Finale; W. Hartley: Sonata Breve; G. Frescobaldi: Canzoner. (For bass trombone and piano.)
3. A self-chosen piece.

Trumpet

1. Obligatory piece: J. Haydn: Concerto, first and second movements on B trumpet.
2. Obligatory piece: H. Purcell: Sonata in D Major, played in original key on D trumpet or piccolo trumpet.
3. A self-chosen Romantic or contemporary piece.
4. A transposing test.

Tuba

1. Obligatory piece: E. Gregson: Concerto, first and second movements or A. Lebedev: Konzert (Hofmeister).
2. An ètude by M. Bordogni: 43 Bel Canto Studies.
3. A self-chosen piece.
4. Scales and arpeggios in Major and Minor keys (played over two octaves)

Career path

Musical studies may qualify you to work as a practicing musician, composer or cantor, or to teach in culture schools or state schools. Your possible career paths are linked to your major, and which classes/topics you choose within your Bachelor's degree.

Further studies

With the Bachelor's degree in Music Performance or Composition, you may qualify for admission to the Master's Programme in Music Performance or Composition.

You may combine or supplement the music performance programme with the Practical Pedagogical Education (teaching certificate, PPU) programme or the Music Therapy programme.

At the Grieg Academy you may also study Music Therapy or Ethnomusicology and Musicology at Master's level.

Curriculum

For the curriculum, please see studentportalen.

Responsible unit

Grieg Academy, Department of Music

Head of programme

Førsteamanuensis Hans Knut Sveen: hans.sveen@grieg.uib.no

Guidance counsellor

Mona Uthaug Wigand: mona.wigand@grieg.uib.no

CHURCH MUSIC

Church music

The Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and Composition at the Grieg Academy takes four years and is worth 240 study points (credits).

Besides being trained within your major, you will during the first two years be introduced to music history and music theory, and gain broad musical experience through various courses and projects.

As an organ student, you will be introduced to important liturgical themes in the first and second years of study. This includes foundational chorale performance, chorale overture, transposition and performance by chord notation. For organ proficiency, there is a special course with an introduction to organ construction, simple tuning and other topics.

In the third and fourth year you may choose your own courses, in line with your artistic profile and future career goals.

Academic/professional content 

The major is focused on:

• Performance techniques within different genres and epochs
• The performer's independent development
• Techniques for learning and practicing a piece
• Familiarity with the instrument
• Interpretation and knowledge of repertoire
• Ensemble performance
• Performance skills

The instruction is given in the form of individual supervision, guidance in group tutorials, seminars, master classes, and different ensemble activities.

Organ students have the possibility of taking a Bachelor's course that satisfies the requirements to qualify as a cantor in the Church of Norway.

Structure

Structure of the church music major:

Year			Study points (credits) = Stp
1.	MUG120 Main instrument 1 30 stp	MUG103 Base disciplines 15 stp	MUG107 Music theory I 15 stp
2.	MUG121 Main instrument 2 30 stp	MUG106 Music history 15 stp	MUG108 Music theory II 15 stp
3.	MUV230 Main instrument 3 30 stp	Themes in church music 15 stp	Themes in church music 15 stp
4.	MUV231 Main instrument 4 30 stp	Themes in church music 15 stp	Themes in church music 15 stp

During the first two years, composition will be combined with basic disciplines (direction, music technology, etc.), music history and topics within music theory: aural training and study ov movements

In the third and fourth years you may choose electives according to your interests. There are many electives to choose from.

With a four-year church music degree, you can qualify as a cantor in the Church of Norway. In the church music degree, you must have 60 study points (credits) within topics relevant to church music.

The following topics within church music are currently offered at the Grieg Academy:

• Choir direction
• Liturgical theory and practice
• Liturgical improvisation
• Arrangement/instrumentation
• Counterpoint/ basso continuo

Exchange programmes

At the Grieg Academy we encourage our students to attend international exchange programmes during their third year. Exchange programmes provide unique experiences and lifelong memories of both musical and personal nature.

The Department has several exciting agreements with educational institutions in Europe, the U.S., Russia and Asia. The Grieg Academy is an active member of Norplus, which comprises all the Nordic music academies, and of AEC, which comprises those in the rest of Europe. In addition to these exchange opportunities, our students also regularly have the chance to meet visiting teachers from our partner institutions.

It is also possible to travel abroad on exchange programmes offered by the University of Bergen.

Admission

The application deadline for the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition is 15 December for studies beginning the following autumn semester, week 33.

Applications are submitted via Søknadsweb ("Application Web") (Activated around 15 November).

Admission requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's programme requires generell studiekompetanse (Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate).

As an applicant, you must also complete and pass an audition for your main instrument. If you are applying for the composition major, you must complete different composition tasks.

To qualify for admission, you must also pass theory and aural tests.

Theory and aural tests

Applicants to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition must take and pass theory and musical ear tests to qualify for admission. Only tests taken the same year may be approved for admission.

All institutions offer these tests to their applicants for the first time in late January/early February. Applicants to other institutions than the Grieg Academy may still take the tests here.

You may alternatively complete the tests during the regular admission weeks at the primary institution you are applying to.

Introductory courses in theory and aural tests are offered to new applicants at the Grieg Academy in January. Course fee: 400 NOK. The registration form is found on the application form you will receive after submitting your application via Søknadsweb, or by e-mail: grieg@hffa.uib.no

Read more about the theory and musical ear test at http://www.høyere-musikkutdanning.no/

Musical auditions - Church music major

For performance and creative studies, there are musical auditions. The auditions are normally held during week 10. After the application deadline, applicants will receive an application form that is to be filled out and returned together with any necessary documentation. The deadline for returning the application form is 5 January.

You will receive written notice of your audition date. You will be informed of the exact time when you arrive. Auditions are normally held during week 10.

Present at the auditions will be a jury consisting of instructors from within the instrument group, as well as one or more student representatives. The student representatives shall ensure that your rights as an applicant are upheld, and that the auditions are fair. All those present at the auditions have a duty of confidentiality. Rules of admission may be downloaded here. [Opptaksreglement.doc]

The names of the applicants whose auditions are approved will be posted on a bulletin board at the Department after the auditions are over. An approved audition does NOT mean that one is granted admission as a student; the applicants granted admission will be determined shortly after the auditions week. All those who have completed the auditions will receive a letter stating their results in the post. Those who are offered admission must confirm acceptance within 15 April.

Admission requirements for the organ as main instrument:

Organ

1. Obligatory piece: D. Buxtehude: Toccata and Fugue in F Major, BuxWV 157.
2. A Baroque piece with a playing time of 5-10 min.
3. A Romantic or contemporary piece with a playing time of 5-10 min.
4. A rehearsed four-part chorale with pedal.

Applicants with a piano background and little organ experience may apply to have the admission requirements for organ wholly or partially replaced with that of piano.

Career path

Upon completion of the Bachelor's Programme with a major in church music, you will satisfy the requirements to qualify as a cantor in the Church of Norway.

Furthermore, your musical studies can qualify you to work as a performing musician, composer or teacher in a culture school or state school. Your possible career paths are linked to your major, and which classes/topics you choose within your Bachelor's degree.

Further studies

The Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition can qualify you for admission to the Master's Programme in Music Performance or Composition.

You may combine or supplement the music performance programme with the Practical Pedagogical Education (teaching certificate, PPU) programme or the Music Therapy programme.

At the Grieg Academy you may also study Music Therapy or Ethnomusicology and Musicology at Master's level.

Curriculum

For the curriculum, see studentportalen.

Responsible unit

Grieg Academy, Department of Music

Head of programme

Førsteamanuensis Hans Knut Sveen: hans.sveen@grieg.uib.no

Guidance counsellor

Mona Uthaug Wigand: mona.wigand@grieg.uib.no

JAZZ

Jazz

The Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and Composition at the Grieg Academy takes four years and is worth 240 study points (credits).

Besides being trained within your major, during the first two years you will be introduced to music history and music theory, and gain broad musical experience through various courses and projects.

In the third and fourth year you may choose your own courses, in line with your artistic profile and future career goals.

 
Academic/professional content
The programme is focused on:

• development of improvisational skills
• development on main instrument
• development through ensemble playing
• development through active participation in concerts, projects and workshops

Performance is an important part of being a musician. Gaining experience in this area is therefore emphasised as part of the course. The Department cooperates closely with Nattjazz and other important establishments in Bergen, and as a student you will have plenty of opportunities to perform in the city's jazz circles.

Training is given in the form of individual tutoring, group lessons, joint seminars/workshops and various ensemble activities.

Possible choices of main instrument for jazz major:

Bass	Percussion
Wind instruments	Piano
Guitar	Vocal

Structure

Year			Study points (credits) = Stp
1.	MUG122 Main instrument 1 30 stp	MUG122 Main instrument 1 or MUG109 Music history - jazz 15 stp	MUG110 Music theory I - jazz 15 stp
2.	MUG123 Main instrument 2 30 stp	MUG103 Basic disciplines or MUG109 Music history - jazz 15 stp	MUG111 Music theory II - jazz 15 stp
3.	MUV232 Main instrument 3 or electives 30 stp	electives 15 stp	electives 15 stp
4.	MUV233 Main instrument 4 or electives 30 stp	electives 15 stp	electives 15 stp

During the first two years, study of the main instrument will be combined with basic disciplines ( arranger's piano, ensemble leadership, etc.), music history and music theory.

Music theory I and II are divided into the following:

• Arrangement/composition - arrangement for large and small ensembles
• Musical ear/improvisation - development of your ear for melody, harmony and rhythm.

In the third and fourth years you may choose electives according to your interests. There are many electives to choose from.

Current electives (subject to annual startup):

• Contemporary music
• Chamber music I and II
• Secondary instrument I and II
• Special instrument
• Arrangement/instrumentation
• Popular music
• Music in world cultures
• Performance skills
• Practical Pedagogic Education (teaching certificate, PPU) in Music Performance
• Ensemble leadership, band
• Music drama (for vocalists)
• Accompaniment I and II
• Choir leadership
• Counterpoint/Basso continuo
• Liturgical improvisation
• Liturgical theory and practice
• Baroque ensemble I and II

Exchange programmes
At the Grieg Academy we encourage our students to attend international exchange programmes during their third year. Exchange programmes provide unique experiences and lifelong memories of both musical and personal nature.

The Department has several exciting agreements with educational institutions in Europe, the U.S., Russia and Asia. The Grieg Academy is an active member of Norplus, which comprises all the Nordic music academies, and of AEC, which comprises those in the rest of Europe. In addition to these exchange opportunities, our students also regularly have the chance to meet visiting teachers from our partner institutions.

It is also possible to travel abroad on exchange programmes offered by the University of Bergen.
 
Admission
The application deadline for the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition is 15 December for studies beginning the following autumn semester, week 33.

Applications are submitted via Søknadsweb ("Application Web") (Activated around 15 November).

Admission requirements
Admission to the Bachelor's programme requires generell studiekompetanse (Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate).

As an applicant you must also complete and pass an audition on your main instrument.

To qualify for admission you must also pass theory and aural tests.

Theory and aural tests
Applicants to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition must take and pass theory and aural tests to qualify for admission. Only tests taken the same year may be approved for admission.

All institutions offer these tests to their applicants for the first time in late January/early February.

You may alternatively complete the tests during the regular admission weeks at the primary institution you are applying to.

Introductory courses in theory and musical ear are offered to new applicants at the Grieg Academy in January. Course fee: 400 NOK. The registration form is found on the application form you will receive after submitting your application via Søknadsweb, or by e-mail: grieg@hffa.uib.no

Read more about the theory and musical ear test at http://www.hoyere-musikkutdanning.no/

Musical auditions - Jazz
For performance and creative studies, there are musical auditions. The auditions are normally held during week 10. After the application deadline, applicants will receive an application form that is to be filled out and returned together with any necessary documentation. The deadline for returning the application form is 5 January.

You will receive written notice of your audition date. You will be informed of the exact time when you arrive. Auditions are normally held during week 10.

Present at the auditions will be a jury consisting of instructors from within the instrument group, as well as one or more student representatives. The student representatives shall ensure that your rights as an applicant are upheld, and that the auditions are fair. All those present at the auditions have a duty of confidentiality. Rules of admission may be downloaded here. [Opptaksreglement.doc]

The names of the applicants whose auditions are approved will be posted on a bulletin board at the Department after the auditions are over. An approved audition does NOT mean that one is granted admission as a student; the applicants granted admission will be determined shortly after the auditions week. All those who have completed the auditions will receive a letter stating their results in the post. Those who are offered admission must confirm acceptance within 15 April.

Performance test
All applicants will complete the practical part of the audition. The purpose of this part is to show different sides of the applicant's performance skills. Special emphasis is placed on improvisation skills.

The performance test will be conducted in one or two rounds, depending on the total number of applicants.

When there are many applicants for one instrument, there will be two rounds. In the first round, up to 10 minutes will be allotted for each applicant. Here the applicant will present a melody/composition of his or her own choice. The applicant should thoroughly consider how the arrangement shall be done and how to convey this to the rhythm section.

The jury decides which applicants will go on to the second round, where up to 20 minutes will be allotted for each applicant. Here the applicant shall perform two melodies/compositions of his or her own choice. This part of the admission test will also contain some sight reading/singing along with some rhythm, scale and chord exercises.

If the test is carried out in only one round, every applicant will have 20 minutes, and will perform three melodies/compositions of his or her own choice. The audition will also contain some sight reading/singing along with some rhythm, scale and chord exercises.

The applicants will have a rhythm section at their disposal, but can also provide their own accompanist/rhythm section if they so choose. This must be indicated on the application form.

It is advantageous that the chosen repertoire as a whole covers a wide range in terms of tempo, style and expression within the jazz genre. It shall consist of three melodies/compositions in total. The chosen repertoire shall be indicated on the application form, and four copies of the chord notations shall be included. The notes must not be transposed.

The applicants who go on to the second round must in addition take a theory and aural test to qualify for admission.

Interview
Candidates who go on to the second round should be prepared for a short interview where we discuss the study programme with each applicant individually.
 
Career path
Your possible career paths are linked to your major, and which classes/topics you choose within your Bachelor's degree.

The jazz major will make it possible for you to meet the requirements expected of musicians within jazz and rhythmic music, whether as a touring musician, member of small or large ensembles or teacher in a culture school or state school.
 
Further studies
The Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition can qualify you for admission to the Master's Programme in Music Performance or Composition. At this time the Grieg Academy does not offer a Master's programme with a specialisation in jazz.

You may combine or supplement the music performance programme with the Practical Pedagogical Education (teaching certificate, PPU) programme or the Music Therapy programme.

At the Grieg Academy you may also study Music Therapy or Ethnomusicology and Musicology at Master's level.
 
Curriculum

For the curriculum, see studentportalen. 

Responsible unit
Grieg Academy, Department of Music

Head of programme
Førsteamanuensis Hans Knut Sveen: hans.sveen@grieg.uib.no

Guidance counsellor
Mona Uthaug Wigand: mona.wigand@grieg.uib.no

 

COMPOSITION

Composition

The Bachelor's degree in Music Performance and Composition at the Grieg Academy takes four years and is worth 240 study points (credits). 

Besides being trained within your major, you will during the first two years be introduced to music history and music theory, and gain broad musical experience through various courses and projects.
In the third and fourth year you may choose your own courses, in line with your artistic profile and future career goals.

Academic/professional content
Within classical music, composition and performance are closely connected in various ways. Sometimes they will coincide: the musician is a composer or the composer is a performer. Other times there arises a role distinction where "composer" and "musician" are different professions that challenge each other to new artistic discoveries. However, the goal is always the same: to jointly create new experiences in music.

Therefore, the Grieg Academy offers its own degree in composition, the so-called kunstmusikalsk komposisjon (art-music composition)in close connection with the classically oriented performance studies, and within the same Bachelor's programme. Aside from the composition programme at the Norwegian Academy of Music, this is the only programme offered in Norway where it is possible to study composition all the way up to the Master's level (up to six years).

Throughout the history of this programme, it has been an important venue for the recruitment of professional composers in Norway. Several former and current students of this programme have made some outstanding professional achievements, in Norway and internationally.

As an arts course, the programme is focused on developing the individual student's creative skills and ambitions from day one. Classes are usually small, with four to six students, and based on close, individual follow up, but the students' ambitions also find expression through a strong personal initiative and taking responsibility for one's own learning.

Still, all artistic performance and in-depth engagement is inevitably also a reflection on artistic standpoints and tradition. As a study of culture, the programme therefore explores how composition throughout history in various ways has attempted to express and comment on its own contemporary world. Familiarity with various musical techniques and expressions, a general view of art and aesthetics, and a broad historical knowledge from Antiquity to contemporary musical experimentation is therefore an important dimension of this training and in developing each individual's artistic awareness. This also ensures the academic and professional foundation necessary in facing other relevant undertakings within music and culture.
 
Structure
Structure of Composition Major:

Year			Study points (credits) = Stp
1.	MUG124 Composition 1 30 stp	MUG103 Base disciplines 15 stp	MUG107 Music theory I 15 stp
2.	MUG125 Composition 2 30 stp	MUG106 Music history 15 stp	MUG108 Music theory II 15 stp
3.	MUV234 Composition 3 or electives 30 stp	Electives 15 stp	Electives 15 stp
4.	MUV235 Composition 4 or electives 30 stp	Electives 15 stp	Electives 15 stp

During the first two years, composition will be combined with basic disciplines, including: piano skills, ensemble direction, , music history and theory, and aural.
In the third and fourth years you may choose electives according to your interests. There are many electives to choose from.

Current electives (subject to annual start up):

• Baroque ensemble
• Contemporary music
• Choir leadership
• Ensemble leadership, band
• Counterpoint/thoroughbass
• Liturgical improvisation
• Liturgical theory and practice
• Chamber music
• Secondary instrument
• Special instrument
• Accompaniment
• Performance skills
• Musical drama (for vocalists)
• Arrangement/instrumentation
• Popular music
• Music in world cultures

Exchange programmes
Exchange programmes may be available during the four-year programme, for instance in other Nordic countries
 
Admission
The application deadline for the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition is 15 December for studies beginning the following autumn semester, week 33.

Applications are submitted via Søknadsweb ("Application Web") (Activated around 15 November).

Admission requirements
Admission to the Bachelor's programme requires generell studiekompetanse (Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate).

As an applicant to the composition major, you must also complete several composition tasks.

To qualify for admission you must also pass theory and aural tests.

Theory and aural tests
Applicants to the Bachelor's Programme in Music Performance or Composition must take and pass theory and musical ear tests to qualify for admission. Only tests taken the same year may be approved for admission.

All institutions offer these tests to their applicants for the first time in late January/early February. Applicants to other institutions than the Grieg Academy may still take the tests here.

You may alternatively complete the tests during the regular admission weeks at the primary institution you are applying to.

Introductory courses in theory and musical ear are offered to new applicants at the Grieg Academy in January. Course fee: 400 NOK. The registration form is found on the application form you will receive after submitting your application via Søknadsweb, or by e-mail: grieg@hffa.uib.no

Read more about the theory and musical ear test at grieg@hffa.uib.no

Musical auditions - Composition
For performance and creative studies, there are musical auditions. The auditions are normally held during week 10. After the application deadline, applicants will receive an application form that is to be filled out and returned together with any necessary documentation. The deadline for returning the application form is 5 January.

The audition for composition involves:

1 Preparation phase - before the audition

Portfolio: The applicant must prepare a complete "portfolio" and bring this to the audition in March. Contents:

• CV: musical background, training, practice and development.
• Previous experience with creating music, as composer or arranger. This may be verified with letters of recommendation, sheet music, audio recordings, etc. Although this is a kunstmusikalsk programme (i.e. an art music programme) the applicant should give a complete portrayal of his/her entire musical background and experience to date (including other genres).
• List of works, arrangements or compositions. Scores and/or recordings should be enclosed. (Any audio must be in CD format.)
• Other artistic expression, if this can be documented and is relevant to the application.
• A reflective essay (1-2 typed A4 pages) on the art of composition, covering the following points:
• Musical background and development to date
• Ambitions, musical focus and expectations for the programme
• Ideas on future job and career possibilities
• The appearance as well as the content of this portfolio is important and says a lot about the applicant. The portfolio is presented upon arrival, and returned to the applicant after the interview.

Knowledge: The applicant is expected to have a sound knowledge of recent compositional traditions, composers, works and style movements. During the interview (see below), this will be tested and elaborated upon. The applicant should thoroughly review relevant topics within music history, as well as listen through and read central pieces by trendsetting composers.

2 Audition

Home exercise:

A home exercise will be sent to the applicant by e-mail approx. two weeks prior to the audition. The applicant must compose a short piece for a given ensemble, according to the given framework and instructions. He/she will also be instructed to write a short analysis of his/her completed exercise. Other subtasks may also be given as part of the home exercise. The completed exercise is to be submitted upon arrival at the audition, as a score and individual parts.

Auditions at the Grieg Academy (Week 10)

Movement-technical auditions (first day):

• A chorale movement exercise, including figure/harmonic analysis of the movement.                                                                                                                
• A polyphonic movement exercise in any of the following styles: free-tonal, Palestrina or Bach.     
• Practical exercises and interview (second day)

3) Rehearsal with ensemble:

The applicant is to lead the practical rehearsal of his/her own home exercise. Time frame: 30 minutes.

4) Interview based on submitted portfolio and subtasks. T

esting of factual knowledge, overview of repertoire and music history. Possibly also a check for sufficient instrumental knowledge (main instrument), as well as basic skills in chord instrument/piano.

Career path
Being a composer is often regarded as a "narrow" profession and has become a typical freelance activity, like most other fields within the creative arts. Nonetheless, this has to do with one of the most important and fundamental aspects of the field of music: To create the music which is to be performed and experienced.

Clearly, succeeding as a composer is linked to a good, creative talent, but it is also about seizing the opportunities that arise, and a willingness to bet on yourself. It is at least imperative to find good musical partners and develop a network. For many, the foundation for this is settled during their studies, in the interactions with other students. The strong knowledge base of the programme may also allow you to combine composition with other tasks within the fields of music and culture. Good examples of this are working as a music performer, producer, or within education, administration and information.

Several of our graduates are practicing composers with a steady stream of orders, also perhaps in combination with other types of side work. Others have secured other kinds of main jobs, but with the opportunity to be used as a composer within that position, or as a freelancer on the side.

First and foremost, it has to do with being assertive and seeing the possibilities around you.
 
Further studies
With the Bachelor's degree in Music Performance or Composition, you may qualify for admission to the Master's Programme in Music Performance or Composition.

You may combine or supplement the music performance programme with the Practical Pedagogical Education (teaching certificate, PPU) programme or the Music Therapy programme.

At the Grieg Academy you may also study Music Therapy or Ethnomusicology and Musicology at Master's level.
 
Curriculum

For curriculum, please see studieplan.

Responsible unit
Grieg Academy, Department of Music

Head of programme
Morten Eide Pedersen: mep@grieg.uib.no

Guidance counselor
Mona Uthaug Wigand: mona.wigand@grieg.uib.no

 

BACHELOR'S PROGRAMME IN MUSIC PERFORMANCE - NORWEGIAN FOLK MUSIC

Norwegian folk Music

The Bachelor's Programme in Norwegian folk Music at Ole Bull Akademiet is intended for those who would like to study folk music tradition in depth, and be educated as a musical performer within this genre, both solo and as part of an ensemble. In the academy's unique environment in Voss, some of Norway's most prominent folk musicians teach either regularly or as guest instructors. Parts of the curriculum are offered together with the Grieg Academy. Exchange programmes may be available during the programme, for instance in other Nordic countries. Students are admitted every other year (even-numbered years), and applicants will be invited to an audition.

Summary
Traditional Music I – the first two years of the Bachelor’s programme – focuses on traditional practice and individual tutoring with the instructor. Students are given the opportunity to develop a personal expression of playing/singing, on the basis of thorough knowledge of their own tradition. Training with one or more bearers of tradition is the most important part of the programme. In addition, there are week-long meetings at approx. one-month intervals in Voss, with classes on various theoretical and practical topics.

Traditional Music II – third and fourth year – focuses on ensemble and arrangement on a traditional foundation. Instruction is held each week in Voss, along with workshops and seminars with prominent folk musicians. The theory classes provide knowledge on folk music from the Nordic countries and other parts of the world. The programme equips students to enter into a diverse world of musical cooperation and professional activity. Students with a two-year degree in folk music with practice from other institutions may also apply. Auditions are held for external applicants. 

Academic/professional contentStructure
The Bachelor's programme consists of two parts: Traditional Music I and II. Both of these include a large performance module (60 stp.) and four smaller modules (15 stp.). The modules worth 15 stp. each provide a theoretical and ethnomusicological approach to the tradition, as well as important expertise that is relevant for performing musicians in contemporary society.

First and second year: Traditional Music I, Spelemans- og kvedarskulen (School of Traditional Performance and Folk Singing), is a programme based on traditional training within folk music. Students are given the opportunity to develop a personal style of playing/singing, on the basis of thorough knowledge of their own tradition.

Third and fourth year: Traditional Music II, is a curriculum with emphasis on ensemble and arrangement. Students are trained, on a firm traditional foundation, to employ folk music in various forms of musical collaboration.

Other topics within art and/or culture may also be included in the third and fourth year of the programme. The Grieg Academy, Department of Music also offers Practical Pedagogical Education (teaching certificate, PPU), which may be included in the Bachelor's degree.
 
Exchange programmes
Exchange programmes may be available during the four-year programme, for instance in other Nordic countries.
 
Admission
Traditional Music I: Applications are to be submitted to Ole Bull Akademiet on the appropriate application form; see http://www.olebull.no/. Repertoire lists including 90 minutes of instrumental performance and 60 minutes of folk singing (kveding) are to be enclosed, consisting of a broad selection of various vocal genres within folk music.

Applicants will be invited to an audition, where the main part will consist of the performance of material from the repertoire list selected by the applicant. In addition, the jury will select vocal melodies from the repertoire list which are to be presented and performed. The applicant must also show that he/she masters the traditional method of learning. Through presentation of the repertoire that is played, and through an interview, the applicant is to demonstrate knowledge of and skill in his/her own musical tradition.

Traditional Music II: Students who have not completed Traditional Music I at the Ole Bull Akademiet must apply for admission. There is no application form; the application must contain documentation of relevant education and musical practice. Auditions are held for all external applicants. At the audition, a 20-minute musical programme will be performed, and through an interview, the applicant must present a sound knowledge of the tradition and motivation for attending the programme.

Prerequisites

All modules: Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate (generell studiekompetanse).

Auditions are required for the modules Musical Practice (Utøving) I and Musical Practice (Utøving) II. External applicants to Musical Practice II must also have completed two years of higher education including a minimum of 15 stp. within folk music practice and 15 stp. of folk music theory/base disciplines. Special requirements apply to the modules Musikkformidling (Music Conveyance) and Additional Practice Module; read more below.

Recommended background

Traditional Music II: Background of musical performance.

For more information on the application and admission, please see http://www.olebull.no.
 
Further studies
A completed Bachelor's degree in Traditional Music will provide the basis for admission to the Master's Programme in Traditional Music at Ole Bull Akademiet, when such a degree shall be offered
 
Curriculum
For curriculum, please see Ole Bull Akademiet: Curriculum Ole Bull Akademiet.
 
Responsible unit
Head of programme: Håkon Asheim: haakon@olebull.no