Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Modules

Check out the range of modules to build your technical skills, enhance your exposure and boost your employability.

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU1101	Principal Study 1 Principal Study 1 develops core technical and musical skills through one-to-one lessons, performance classes, faculty studies, and seminars on musicians’ health. Students will gain confidence in solo and ensemble settings while building effective practice habits and performance readiness.	60
NBMU1110	Learning to Create 1A: Theory and Aural Learning to Create 1A introduces foundational techniques and harmonic language from the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries through stylistic studies, analysis, and listening. The module strengthens your theoretical and aural skills, enhancing both your understanding and interpretation of the music you perform or compose.	15
NBMU1111	Contextualising Music in the Performing Arts 1A: Current Trends Contextualising the Performing Arts 1A explores music within broader cultural, social, and artistic frameworks, encouraging critical engagement with both Western and Chinese contemporary music traditions. Through study and participation, you will examine how cultural contexts shape performance practices and reflect on your role as a musician within Singapore’s unique artistic landscape.	15
NBMU1210	Learning to Create 1B: Stylistic Composition and Improvisation Learning to Create 1B builds on the foundations of 1A, focusing on the connection between musical materials, compositional style, and improvisation. Through interactive music-making, you will explore creative techniques that enhance your ensemble awareness, deepening your understanding of how theory, composition, and improvisation intersect in practice.	15
NBMU1211	Contextualising Music in the Performing Arts 1B: Current Trends Contextualising the Performing Arts 1B examines how contemporary music responds to digital innovation, cultural exchange, and evolving societal contexts. Through study, participation, and critical engagement with diverse works, you will explore practices beyond the classical canon and develop the mindset to contribute meaningfully as artists, collaborators, and cultural advocates.	15

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU2101	Principal Study 2 Principal Study 2 builds on the practical and musical foundations established in Year 1, further refining your technical proficiency, musicianship, and performance confidence. Through individual lessons, performance classes, ensemble work, and seminars on music-related technologies, you will continue to develop stage presence, independent practice habits, and collaborative performance skills.	60
NBMU2110	Learning to Create 2A: Analytical Techniques Learning to Create 2A builds on foundational theory skills by introducing a range of analytical approaches to music. Through guided listening and score study, you will develop the ability to identify key musical elements, deepening your understanding of concert repertoire. This module strengthens your analytical thinking and equips you to articulate informed musical perspectives with clarity and critical insight.	10
NBMU2111	Contextualising Music in the Performing Arts 2A: Past Sensibilities This module offers a chronological overview of music history up to 1900, focusing on selected composers and works from antiquity through the nineteenth century. By examining past musical practices and contexts, you will gain insights relevant to your own performing or compositional discipline. Through critical engagement with historical sources, the module supports the development of informed and stylistically aware interpretations.	10
NBMU2210	Learning to Create 2B: Interdisciplinary Practices This module introduces music students to collaborative improvisation through cross-disciplinary work with other NAFA departments. Using artistic case studies and practical projects, you will explore methods for co-creating music in real time, developing essential collaborative and improvisational skills. The module also encourages self-reflection on your professional identity and role within an ensemble or artistic team.	10
NBMU2211	Contextualising Music in the Performing Arts 2B: Past Sensibilities This module explores the stylistic and aesthetic qualities of both well-known and less-represented repertoire relevant to your specialisation. By studying selected genres and traditions, you will deepen your understanding of musical history and engage critically with developments in performance and composition. Through seminar discussions, you will reflect on your artistic identity and how evolving technologies and historical contexts inform your practice.	10

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU3101	Principal Study 3 Principal Study 3 continues to build your command of technical and artistic skills through one-to-one lessons, performance classes, and faculty-based studies. You will explore increasingly sophisticated repertoire and develop greater independence in shaping your artistic identity. The module culminates in a curated public recital that serves as your summative assessment. Students are also expected to participate in solo and ensemble performance activities, as well as faculty requirements designed to enhance performance experience and musical understanding. This module is available as a 60 or 80 credit unit.	60 or 80
NBMU3110	Learning to Create 3A: Professional Contexts This module deepens your analytical and listening skills through aural and score-based approaches to music from various historical periods and styles. Delivered through seminars and one-to-one tutorials, you will explore a wide range of analytical techniques beyond traditional Roman numeral and structural analysis. You will learn to interpret and discuss key works critically, and apply your insights to both assigned and self-selected repertoire.	10
NBMU3201	International Placement This module offers a unique opportunity to study at an international conservatoire for seven weeks, such as the Royal College of Music (London) or Central Conservatory of Music (Beijing). By engaging with different sociocultural and educational environments, you will broaden your musical perspective, develop global professionalism, and build valuable international networks for your future career.	10

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU4101	Principal Study 4 Principal Study 4 marks the culmination of your undergraduate journey, showcasing your artistic identity and command of professional performance skills. Through individual lessons and faculty activities, you will refine your technique, broaden your stylistic range, and deepen your musical awareness in preparation for a career in music. The module leads to a final public recital, presenting a curated programme that reflects your growth as a performer or composer ready to enter the profession.	60 or 80
NBMU4103	Enterprise and Innovation in the Community Offered as an option in BMus 4, this module equips students with the entrepreneurial and communication skills necessary to thrive as musicians in diverse community and industry settings. Students learn how to generate ideas that respond to real-world needs, build sustainable business models, and communicate effectively with potential stakeholders. The module also offers insight into branding, marketing, legal and financial frameworks, and supports students in developing a learning and participation proposal that addresses a local community need.	20
NBMU4104	Pedagogy in Practice Offered as an option in BMus 4, this module provides an in-depth exploration of music teaching in both individual and group settings. Students develop effective communication and pedagogical strategies through hands-on studio teaching and outreach projects in local schools. The module equips future educators to work confidently across diverse learning contexts, adapting to varied student needs and refining their teaching through direct practice. Lesson observations further support critical reflection, with attention to the local and regional music education landscape.	20
NBMU4105	Open Project Open Project supports you in developing expertise in a specialised area of interest you have explored during your time at NAFA. With guidance from a subject specialist, you will pursue an independent project that reflects your artistic and academic development, demonstrating originality, critical inquiry, and professional standards. This module encourages innovation and deep engagement with current research and practice, culminating in a final submission that reflects your voice and vision within your chosen field.	20

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU3001	Chamber Music Chamber Music develops your skills as a collaborative performer through the exploration of ensemble repertoire and rehearsal techniques. As a pathway towards creative performance, the module encourages experimentation and innovative programming, while fostering artistic communication, ensemble awareness, and musical independence. Through rehearsals, coaching, and performance opportunities, you will build the practical and professional skills necessary to function effectively within a chamber group.	20
NBMU3002	Creative Improvisation Creative Improvisation offers a practical and exploratory introduction to the art of extemporisation. Through ensemble workshops and creative exercises, you will develop confidence and fluency away from notated music, using contemporary improvisational approaches. The module cultivates musical interaction, attentive listening, and artistic responsiveness, while encouraging you to shape a personal voice as a performer through spontaneous music-making.	10
NBMU3003	Conducting Conducting introduces the foundational skills required to lead and inspire an ensemble. This module focuses on baton technique, score preparation, and rehearsal methods, helping you to develop effective non-verbal communication and interpretative insight. Through hands-on experience with various repertoire and ensemble settings, you will build leadership and collaborative skills essential to the role of a conductor.	20
NBMU3004	Accompaniment Accompaniment equips you with the technical and musical skills needed to collaborate effectively with vocal or instrumental soloists. Through the study of diverse repertoire, you will develop stylistic sensitivity, refine sight-reading abilities, and build strong ensemble rapport. This module supports your growth as a responsive and communicative accompanist across a range of musical contexts.	10
NBMU3005	Collaborative Performance Collaborative Performance introduces you to the dynamic possibilities of interdisciplinary music-making. Through partnerships with other art forms within the Faculty of Performing Arts, you will explore how to balance creative identities, develop mutual artistic vision, and rehearse effectively. This module cultivates your ability to communicate, organise, and present joint performances—laying the groundwork for future professional collaborations.	10

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU3011	Research Methods Research Methods introduces the core principles of arts-based research, equipping you with the tools to explore and contextualise your own musical practice. You will gain insight into qualitative and quantitative methodologies, develop analytical and reflective thinking, and examine how research can support your growth as a practitioner. Through guided enquiry and portfolio development, this module lays the foundation for future research and postgraduate study.	10
NBMU3012	Music and Words This online module, conducted in collaboration with the Royal College of Music, develops your skills in writing and speaking about music. Through workshops and peer engagement, you will explore creative, critical, and interpretive approaches to musical communication, enhancing your confidence and clarity as a musical communicator.	10
NBMU3013	Ethnomusicology This research pathway module introduces the core concepts, methods, and fieldwork practices of ethnomusicology. You will explore the roles of music in diverse cultural contexts, conduct independent research, and critically relate your findings to both literature and your own musical practice.	20

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU3021	Artist in the Digital Age This performance science and technology module explores how emerging technologies like AI, VR, and AR are reshaping the performing arts. Students will develop practical digital skills, examine how the music industry is evolving, and learn how to leverage these tools to enhance artistic identity, collaboration, and audience engagement.	10
NBMU3022	Digital Production for Professional Arrangement This module introduces students to creative music arrangement and audio production using Logic Pro X. Through hands-on workshops, students will learn to edit, sequence, and record music, while exploring audio samples, MIDI instruments, and synthesisers. No prior experience is needed—ideal for those looking to compose, arrange, or produce their own recordings.	10
NBMU3023	Sound Design for Performing Arts This module equips students with the skills to compose, arrange, and produce sound design for performance productions. Students will explore creative strategies, collaborate with peers, and use tools like Sibelius and ProTools to realise their ideas in live or recorded settings. It prepares students for roles such as composer, musical director, or musician in the performing arts.	20
NBMU3024	Performance Psychology I: Musical Excellence Performance Psychology I introduces students to foundational psychological concepts that support optimal music performance. Through practical experimentation and reflective learning, students explore strategies to manage practice and performance challenges. The module equips students with essential mental skills to enhance musical development and performance confidence.	10
NBMU3025	Performance Psychology II: Research and Practice Performance Psychology II builds on the foundation of Performance Psychology I by deepening your understanding of psychological concepts through critical engagement with performance science research. You will evaluate the evidence underpinning psychological strategies, identify knowledge gaps, and formulate relevant research questions, supporting future study and effective psychological application in your musical practice.	10
NBMU3026	Alexander Technique (at RCM only) Alexander Technique introduces foundational principles through practical seminars and reflective practice, helping you to build greater self-awareness and ease in performance. You will explore how the technique enhances confidence, instrumental control, and mental focus, supporting more efficient practice and strategies for managing performance anxiety.	10

Code	Title	Credits
NBMU3031	Composition Composition offers a practical and analytical introduction to contemporary compositional techniques. Through score study, class exercises, and peer workshops, you will experiment with musical parameters, explore influences from established composers, and develop effective scoring and part preparation skills for live performance of your own works.	20
NBMU3032	Schenkerian Analysis Schenkerian Analysis introduces the foundational principles of Heinrich Schenker’s analytical method, emphasising contrapuntal thinking and structural awareness. Through reductive and graphic analysis techniques, you will deepen your understanding of musical works and explore how these insights can inform interpretation and performance.	20
NBMU3033	Applied Aural Applied Aural develops your aural perception through practical and written activities designed to strengthen musical understanding at all levels. This module equips you to process and internalise musical sound with greater accuracy and fluency, supporting your performance and compositional practice through enhanced listening and musical awareness.	10
NBMU3034	Orchestration and Transcription Orchestration and Transcription equips you with practical skills to arrange and transcribe music for orchestral and chamber settings. You will explore instrumental ranges, timbral qualities, and stylistic techniques across historical periods, while developing the ability to combine instrumental colours effectively and prepare digital scores and parts for performance.	20

entry requirements

Find out about the entry requirements that apply to you.

Audition Requirements

The list of principal study instruments offered by School of Music is as follows:

Keyboard Studies	Piano
Strings Studies	Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass Harp
Winds Studies	Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon Horn, Trumpet, Euphonium, Tuba Saxophone (applicants can play either all works on Alto saxophone or two on Alto and one on Tenor/Baritone)s Trombone (applicants must perform with Tenor Trombone)
Percussion Studies	Percussion (applicants must perform one work each on snare drum, mallets and timpani)
Chinese Instrumental Studies	Gaohu, Erhu, Liuqin, Pipa, Ruan Guqin, Sanxian Yangqin Guzheng Dizi, Sheng, Suona, Guanzi
Vocal Studies	Voice (Classical)
Composition Studies	Composition

The audition process consists of TWO (2) parts:

Pre-Screening
Final Audition

Please see below for instructions to both parts of the audition process.

Pre-Screening
Applicants will be pre-screened through video submission (or composition portfolio submission for composers) to be shortlisted for a final audition. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to a final audition.

Instrumentalists and Vocalists
You are to submit a video fulfilling the following requirements for Pre-Screening:
- Duration: total performance duration of at least 5 minutes
- Pieces: 2 contrasting works
- Pieces must be written by different composers
- Pieces must demonstrate a broad range of styles, historical periods, and character, reflecting both maturity and technical command.
Note:
- Works from popular music genres (e.g. pop songs or contemporary commercial music) will not be accepted.
- You are required to perform with an accompanist if the repertoire requires it.
- Only acoustic instruments are permitted. Electric instruments are not allowed.
In addition, you are required to submit the following documents to the Student Admissions Office at least ONE (1) day before the scheduled audition:
- ABRSM/Trinity Practical and Theory Certificates and Transcripts
- Form 5B: Background and References
Guidelines for video recording:
- Performance of the contrasting pieces must be recorded in a single take without edits.
- The camera must be stationary for the entire performance.
- The video should show the performer in full body if possible.
- The video is to be recorded no more than three months prior to the submission date.
- Concert and competition recordings are not allowed.
- You are required to come to the front of the camera (where your face can be seen clearly) and state your name and the titles of the pieces before the performance.
Composers
You are to submit a composition portfolio fulfilling the following requirements for Pre-Screening:
- Portfolio to include 2 – 5 contrasting compositions
- Compositions must be written scores using composition software such as Sibelius, Finale, MuseScore, etc.
- Compositions must be submitted in PDF format. Recording of compositions (live or midi) is optional.
- The written music must be clear and legible with full information of instrumentation, scoring and performance details.
Final Audition
Following the pre-screening, shortlisted applicants will be invited to:
(A) an in-person audition
OR
(B) an online audition (for applicants unable to attend the in-person audition in Singapore and other locations)

(A) In-person audition in Singapore
If you are residing in Singapore, you are required to attend an in-person audition if you pass the pre-screening. You will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition.

The in-person audition will consist of the following:
- Performance of 3 contrasting works (see below for Instrument-Specific Requirements)
- Reviewing of composition portfolio (only for composition applicants)
- Sight-reading
- Music theory*
- Interview
Instrument-Specific Requirements
- Pianists: Must present at least three contrasting works
- Vocalists: Must present at least three contrasting works including one work in English and one in a European language (Italian, French or German). At least one work must be an operatic or oratorio aria, with recitative included if possible. Whilst we train singers for the classical repertoire, we will accept a maximum of one piece of musical theatre should this offer a particular insight into their potential as performers.
- Percussionists: Must present one work each on snare drum, mallets, and timpani.
- Other instrumentalists (excluding pianists): Must present at least three contrasting works. At least one accompanied work is required. Suggested repertoire includes sonatas, concertos, études, and solo works.
Accompaniment Requirements:
- You are required to perform with an accompanist if the repertoire requires it
Important notes on preparing for your in-person audition
- All instrumentalists except percussionists and pianists are required to bring their principal study instrument for the audition. You are required to provide a set of music scores of the pieces for the audition panel.
- You are not allowed to bring a page-turner, a teacher or a translator to the audition. The only people in the audition room will be you, the accompanist and the audition panel.
- As our programmes are taught in English, you will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.
- The audition panel reserves the right to hear only part of the programme overall.
- The audition will be recorded for evaluation purposes and used solely for the selection process.
- Typical questions asked during the interview may include:
  - Why do you want to study at NAFA?
  - What are your musical interests?
  - What do you think you need to do most to improve your performance/writing?
In-person audition dates

Singapore

Audition Date
7 November 2025
9 January 2026
2 – 6 March 2026
25 – 26 Apr 2026

China

Audition Date
15 – 16 November 2025 (Beijing)
7 – 14 March 2026 (Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai)
16 – 17 May 2026 (Beijing)

Note:
- You will be notified of the exact date and time via email one week before the audition, if you pass the pre-screening.
- Audition dates are accurate at the time of publishing and will be subject to changes.
- Applicants who wish to attend the audition in China will be notified of more information by Student Admissions Office closer to date.
(B) Online audition
Though in-person auditions are preferred, you may request to attend an online audition via Zoom if you reside overseas.

For instrumentalists and vocalists: You will be required to record a new video of 3 contrasting works based on the Instrument-Specific Requirements stated in 2(A) above and submit the video recording within TWO (2) weeks of our notification of your shortlisting. You will be given a unique audition number to be printed out and placed in sight of the recording. More instructions will be provided to shortlisted applicants.

The online audition will consist of the following:
- Reviewing of composition portfolio (only for composition applicants)
- Sight-reading
- Music theory*
- Interview
Important notes on preparing for your online audition
- You must be alone in a quiet room.
- Instrumentalists are required to have their principal study instrument ready during the audition.
- You are to join the Zoom meeting with a large screen device (e.g. Tablet/Laptop) in order to read the music score for the segment on sight-reading.
- As our programmes are taught in English, you will be expected to communicate in English at the audition.
*Music Theory Test
During the music theory test (approximately 60 minutes), you will be tested on various areas at a level comparable to ABRSM Grade V.

You will be exempted from the music theory test if you submit any of the following documentary evidence before the audition:
- ABRSM Grade V Music Theory or its equivalent
- Pass in GCE ‘O’ Level or GCE ‘A’ Level Music
- Pass in SOTA Music Year 4 and above
- Pass in Music Theory subject in a specialist music school
Note: The music theory test is waived for NAFA applicants who have successfully completed NAFA’s Diploma in Music or Diploma in Music Teaching.

Audition Date
7 November 2025
9 January 2026
2 – 6 March 2026
25 – 26 Apr 2026

Audition Date
15 – 16 November 2025 (Beijing)
7 – 14 March 2026 (Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai)
16 – 17 May 2026 (Beijing)

Educational Qualifications

Entry into first year (either one of the following):
- Singapore-Cambridge A-Level (Minimum 2 A-Level / H2 subjects and a pass in General Paper)
- Local Polytechnic / Arts Institution Diploma
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
- ITE Work-Study Diploma (WSDip)
- NUS High School Diploma
- Equivalent of Year 12 qualification with good passes in a recognised national/international examination

Direct entry into second or third year:
- A relevant music diploma from NAFA, LASALLE or a recognised institution.
- Diploma transcript must indicate passing grades in equivalent NAFA diploma modules

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

Applicants may be eligible for APL through the demonstration of prior certification, where they may receive exemption of up to 240 credits. Applicants must be first eligible to enter the programme before APL can be considered.

English Language Proficiency

An English Language proficiency^* of at least:

IELTS Academic	TOEFL - iBT	PTE Academic	Duolingo English Test
6.0	80	50	105

^*Not applicable to applicants who have completed their NAFA diploma or diplomas/degrees from other institutions where English is the medium of instruction. Other qualifications equivalent to any of the above.

Applicants from countries where English is not the first language, or whose qualifications are obtained from institutions where English is not the medium of instruction, NAFA will consider the English Language proficiency attained through the above-mentioned English Language qualifications.

How to Apply

Take the leap! Begin the journey to becoming a world-class musician.

Apply online

Apply online here along with your application fees. Applications are open from October each year for the following year’s August intake.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Send documents listed in the checklist to [email protected] for verification within five working days from the application date.

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online

Make payment of the Application Fee (non-refundable) online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.

	Singapore Citizens & Singapore Permanent Residents	International Students
Application fee	S$75.00	S$120.00

Application fee is inclusive of prevailing GST.

Receive an email

You will receive an email from the Student Admissions Office on the details of your audition upon receipt of all required documents.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.

Apply Now

Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Redefining Musical Excellence And Leadership In A Future-ready Conservatoire

Students' Work

Modules

entry requirements

Audition Requirements

Educational Qualifications

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

English Language Proficiency

How to Apply

Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Bachelor of Music (Honours)

Redefining Musical Excellence And Leadership In A Future-ready Conservatoire

Students' Work

Modules

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Pathway A: Creative Performance

Pathway B: Research

Pathway C: Performance Science and Technology

Pathway D: Applied Theory and Composition

entry requirements

Audition Requirements

Educational Qualifications

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

English Language Proficiency

How to Apply