.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-A in Music at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Music at University of Delhi Delhi?
This Music program at University of Delhi focuses on advanced studies in Indian classical music, primarily Hindustani or Karnatak traditions. It delves into musicology, history, aesthetics, and practical performance, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s vibrant music industry. The program emphasizes theoretical depth alongside rigorous practical training, crucial for professional musicians and scholars.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for music graduates passionate about Indian classical music, aspiring performers, researchers, and educators. It attracts individuals seeking a deeper understanding of musical traditions, fresh graduates eyeing a career in music academia or performance, and professionals looking to refine their skills and gain advanced theoretical knowledge.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professional musicians, music educators, researchers, critics, or cultural administrators in India. Salary ranges vary widely, from entry-level artists (₹2-4 LPA) to experienced performers/academics (₹8-15+ LPA). Growth trajectories include becoming solo artists, band leaders, university professors, or cultural institution heads.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Musical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding fundamental musicology, history, and aesthetics. Actively participate in practical sessions, focusing on basic Ragas and Talas to build a strong theoretical and practical base. Engage in daily Riyaz (practice) for vocal or instrumental proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Departmental library, Mentorship from senior students, Online platforms for classical music tutorials
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for advanced studies and ensures proficiency for future performances or research, establishing credibility in the Indian classical music scene.
Cultivate Disciplinary Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a consistent study routine combining theoretical learning with practical application. Attend all lectures, workshops, and concerts organized by the department. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex concepts and share practical insights, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Tools & Resources
Academic calendar, Peer study circles, Online research databases for musicology
Career Connection
Effective time management and consistent learning habits are essential for academic success and building the discipline required for a professional music career.
Explore Diverse Musical Experiences- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond the curriculum, attend live performances, participate in open mic sessions or local music gatherings, and listen to a wide range of Indian classical music. This broad exposure enriches understanding and inspires creativity, helping students find their unique artistic voice.
Tools & Resources
Local concert venues, Music festivals e.g., Dover Lane, Tansen Samaroh, YouTube channels dedicated to classical music
Career Connection
Broad exposure helps develop a refined musical sensibility, expands repertoire knowledge, and connects students with the broader Indian music fraternity.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Specialized Research- (Semester 3)
Begin exploring specific areas of interest within musicology or performance. Attend departmental seminars and workshops on research methodology. Choose an elective that aligns with your research interests and start gathering resources for potential dissertation topics.
Tools & Resources
University research guides, JSTOR, RILM music databases, Faculty consultations
Career Connection
Developing research skills early is crucial for academic careers, thesis completion, and contributes to becoming a well-rounded music scholar or critic.
Seek Mentorship and Collaboration- (Semester 3)
Actively seek guidance from faculty members and senior artists for advanced practical training and theoretical insights. Collaborate with fellow students on projects, ensemble performances, or compositions, fostering teamwork and network building within the department.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, Departmental performance groups, Music clubs
Career Connection
Mentorship provides invaluable guidance, while collaborations expand artistic horizons and build a professional network vital for future opportunities in the Indian music industry.
Participate in Competitions and Festivals- (Semester 3)
Actively prepare for and participate in inter-university music competitions, youth festivals, and cultural events. This provides invaluable stage experience, helps in receiving feedback, and builds confidence for professional performance careers.
Tools & Resources
University cultural society, Notifications for national music competitions, Personal coaching
Career Connection
Competitive exposure enhances performance skills, builds a public profile, and can lead to recognition and initial career breakthroughs in the highly competitive Indian music landscape.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project Excellence- (Semester 4)
Devote considerable effort to the Dissertation/Project in the final semester. Ensure original research, rigorous methodology, and a high standard of writing or creative presentation. Engage deeply with your supervisor for consistent feedback and refinement.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Academic writing workshops, Dedicated research time
Career Connection
A strong dissertation or project showcases specialized knowledge and research capability, essential for higher studies, academic positions, or establishing authority in a niche musical area.
Refine Professional Performance Portfolio- (Semester 4)
For performing artists, refine your repertoire, record high-quality audio/video samples, and build a professional portfolio. Attend masterclasses and seek opportunities for solo concerts or accompanying roles to gain varied experience.
Tools & Resources
Professional recording studios, Videographers for live performance capture, Music agent contacts (if applicable)
Career Connection
A polished portfolio is crucial for securing performance contracts, auditions, or teaching roles in music academies and cultural institutions across India.
Network and Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Actively network with established musicians, academicians, and cultural managers. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and alumni events. Research potential employers or opportunities in performance, education, media, or arts administration to plan your post-graduation career path in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional music associations e.g., Sangeet Natak Akademi, Alumni network
Career Connection
Strategic networking is vital for opening doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and career growth in the Indian music industry, providing insights into market demands.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Hons.) Music with minimum 40% aggregate or B.A. (Pass/Prog.) / B.Com. / B.Sc. / B.Tech. etc. from University of Delhi or any other recognized university with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks, along with qualifying an Entrance Test.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHM 101 | Musicology I (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Definition, Scope & Importance of Musicology, Types of Musicology, Ancient Indian Concepts of Music, Contribution of Key Musicologists, Research Methods in Music |
| MAHM 102 | History of Indian Music I (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Origin of Music in Vedas, Music in Ancient Period, Natyashastra and other Texts, Music in Medieval Period, Evolution of Raga System |
| MAHM 103 | Aesthetics of Music I (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Definition and Scope of Aesthetics, Concept of Rasa and Bhava, Aesthetics in Indian Music, Role of Listener and Performer, Beauty and Expression in Music |
| MAHM 104 | Practical I (Hindustani Music) | Practical | 4 | Performance of Specific Ragas e.g., Yaman, Bhairav, Improvisation Techniques, Voice Training and Control, Presentation of Khayal and Dhrupad, Taal Exercises |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHM 201 | Musicology II (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Ethnomusicology, Comparative Musicology, Organology and Music Instruments, Music Psychology, Acoustics of Music |
| MAHM 202 | History of Indian Music II (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Music in Mughal Period, Contribution of Major Gharanas, Modern Period and Institutions, Impact of Western Music, Contemporary Trends in Indian Music |
| MAHM 203 | Aesthetics of Music II (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Theories of Artistic Expression, Creativity in Music, Impact of Technology on Aesthetics, Music as a Universal Language, Contemporary Aesthetic Debates |
| MAHM 204 | Practical II (Hindustani Music) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Raga Performance e.g., Puriya Dhanashree, Multani, Compositional Forms Bandish, Gat, Layakari and intricate Taal patterns, Vocal and Instrumental Interaction, Stage Presentation Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHM 301 | Research Methodology & Terminology (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Writing a Research Paper, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MAHM 302 | Comparative Study of Indian Music Systems (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Origin and Evolution of Hindustani and Karnatak Music, Raga System Comparison, Tala System Comparison, Forms and Genres, Prominent Musicians and Traditions |
| MAHM 303 | Elective Paper (Hindustani Music) | Elective | 4 | Sanskrit Texts on Music, Traditional Music Forms, Folk Music of India, Music Therapy, Applied Music |
| MAHM 304 | Practical/Project Work III (Hindustani Music) | Practical/Project | 4 | Advanced Raga Rendition, Specialized Compositions, Ensemble Performance, Music Composition and Arrangement, Performance for Specific Occasions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHM 401 | Study of Indian Musical Forms & Styles (Hindustani Music) | Core | 4 | Dhrupad and Dhamar, Khayal and Tarana, Thumri, Dadra, Hori, Ghazal and Bhajan, Instrumental Forms Gat, Toda |
| MAHM 402 | Practical IV (Hindustani Music) | Practical | 4 | Mastery of Complex Ragas, Performance with Accompanists, Audience Engagement, Personalized Performance Style, Professional Stage Management |
| MAHM 403 | Dissertation/Project (Hindustani Music) | Project | 4 | Topic Selection and Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology Implementation, Data Presentation and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Defense |
| MAHM 404 | Viva-Voce (on Dissertation/Project) (Hindustani Music) | Viva-Voce | 4 | Defense of Research Findings, Clarity of Musical Concepts, Presentation Skills, Knowledge of Related Areas, Relevance of Project to Music Field |
