Our research encompasses critical and contextual investigation, mostly focused on twentieth-century and contemporary music and performance practice, including Cuban music for example, but also early music practice and reception through the work of ethnomusicologist researchers. These areas of investigation frequently support the practice-based activities of contributing staff, both in the areas of composition and performance.

The interdisciplinary nature of our research creates a rich and stimulating environment for staff and students. You’ll benefit from a variety of research-oriented events, including our Faculty and departmental research seminar series, performance events and international conferences.

We also enjoy links with the wider community, including local arts venues like The Junction, the Cambridge Arts Picturehouse and Kettle's Yard; the University of Cambridge's Centre for Research into Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CRASSH); and various NHS health providers.

In conjunction with the University’s research support, you can request specific support for writing-up, conference papers, general research methods and other research skills if you need it.

• Specialist facilities

You’ll have access to our purpose-built music centre, which includes an extensive suite of computer music studios with workstation laboratories, digital editing studios, recording facilities and band rooms, as well as a recital hall, practice rooms and lecture rooms. We also have the full-size Mumford Theatre on campus, which regularly hosts professional musicians. Our studios include a wide selection of specialist computer hardware and software along with full internet access, and are supported by an extensive range of online facilities and resources.

We also have five grand pianos, including a new Steinway Model D, and many orchestral instruments, as well as traditional instruments from India, China and Africa, and a Balinese Gamelan.