Master of Philosophy in Film Music

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to facilitate advanced research into the fundamentals of film music and to enable learners to use their specialist knowledge of film scoring to engage and critique current research pertaining to film scores, orchestration, theory and technology.

Rationale

The South Africa film industry is regarded as a major economic opportunity for the nation therefore there is a need to develop people with the appropriate skills and knowledge to function effectively in the film music sector. There is also a shortage of researchers and research into the discipline and practice of film music. This qualification will help to alleviate the shortage and graduates with this qualification should contribute to the knowledge base in the sector as well as to professionalising it.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Institution's rules and practices regarding RPL are applied. In addition, the application process provides prospective learners with an opportunity to present examples of their compositions or sound design. This important step is encouraged as the framework of the qualification allows a Degree of freedom to adapt to learners' wishes without neglecting needs, deficiencies and areas where support or a buttressing of their skills may be required.

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Music (BMus), Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Film Music, Level 8.

Or

• Honours Degree in Music, Level 8.

And

Experience as a composer, by submitting a portfolio of music.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Modules

• Thesis (Film Music), 90 Credits.
• Composition, 90 Credits.

1. Conduct advanced research into the various sub-disciplines of film music by using a wide range of specialised skills in addressing the creation, transmission and analysis of sound for film.
2. Demonstrate specialised knowledge to enable engagement with musical creativity and technique, as well as with film music.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Research processes, design and procedures are applied in a highly specialised area of film sound.
• New specialised knowledge are generated through research into the processes and procedures of film sound.
• The ability to do work across a broad spectrum of genres, styles and technological mediums in the field of sound for film is demonstrated.
• Knowledge in the composition of film scores and soundtracks is practically applied.
• The research findings in the form of an academically respectable thesis are presented.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• The principles of composition, orchestration and score preparation techniques, either in a classical music context or with its specific application in film and commercial music are understood.
• Familiarity with fundamentals of film music practice (when applicable) is demonstrated.
• The technical aspects of film score production (when this is the focus of the creative research) are understood.
• A comprehensive portfolio of musical scores with a total performance time of 45-60 minutes is created.

Integrated Assessment

With reference to the Assessment Policy of the Institution, lecturers will be encouraged to apply the following criteria for effective assessment: validity, reliability, academic integrity, transparency, fairness, achievability and timely feedback. The application of the criteria; the use of appropriate assessment methods and the integration of assessment will be monitored.

The qualification consists of two modules that will both be examined internally and externally. A composition portfolio consisting of a number of works or a single major work will be created during the year under guidance of a staff member and a 50% thesis will be submitted.