(Hons) Jazz Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama

Overview

The (Hons) Jazz at Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama provides a professional environment where performing, collaborating, and composing are central to the curriculum. Students receive specialist training alongside some of the finest jazz musicians in the UK, ensuring they develop the technical and creative skills required for a modern musical career. This programme is specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of contemporary performers and composers across various instrumental and vocal disciplines.

Education is delivered through a blend of one-to-one principal study lessons and small group sessions. This approach allows for a deep exploration of jazz history, philosophy, and repertoire across a wide selection of sub-genres.

Why (Hons) Jazz at Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama?

The college offers an immersive conservatoire experience with access to world-class tutors who are active contemporary composers and performers. Students benefit from exceptional facilities and a vibrant creative community in Cardiff, a city known for its flourishing jazz scene. A unique feature of the course is the student-led jazz club, AmserJazzTime, where students manage and perform in weekly public gigs to develop vital entrepreneurial and promotional skills.

The curriculum is highly flexible, offering specialisms in the Alexander Technique, music for theatre, sound recording, and arranging. Students also have the opportunity to study abroad at partner conservatoires, expanding their professional network internationally. Final year assessments are integrated into a professional jazz festival, providing a high-profile platform to showcase talent to industry experts and the general public.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 29500 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Principal Study
• Jazz History and Philosophy
• Ensemble Performance
• Composition and Arranging
• Professional Development
• Sound Recording
• Alexander Technique
• Music for Theatre
• International Study

Careers with (Hons) Jazz

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the global music industry, including professional performance, freelance composition, and session musicianship. The programme’s focus on entrepreneurial skills enables alumni to succeed as bandleaders, promoters, and educators. Many graduates find employment with major arts organisations, recording studios, and touring ensembles, leveraging the professional networks and work experience placements gained during their studies.