Duration: 1.5 years (option to complete in 12 months)
Mode: Full-time
Part-time option: 2 years
Conferred by the University of the Arts Singapore (UAS) and delivered through NAFA’s School of Music, the Master of Performance (MPerf) offers advanced, practice-led training designed to refine artistic mastery and cultivate confident, forward-looking musicians ready to excel in today’s dynamic musical landscape.
Responding to the evolving world of professional music-making — shaped by technological change, cross-disciplinary exchange, and shifting cultural contexts — the MPerf prepares you to thrive as a musician of our time: not only as an accomplished performer, but also as a pedagogue, collaborator, and cultural leader who advances artistic and social innovation.
Blending artistic rigour with innovation, the programme cultivates the depth, versatility, and resilience essential for today’s professional musician. Through sustained one-to-one Principal Study, reflective practice, and collaborative projects, you will hone interpretative insight and artistic assurance across solo, ensemble, interdisciplinary, and digital platforms.
Artistic Mastery & Professional Identity
- Refine your craft. Define your voice.
- One-to-one Principal Study with distinguished artists and mentors
- Masterclasses and ensemble coaching that advance performance excellence
- Reflective, research-informed practice that shapes individuality and artistic conviction
Interdisciplinary & Industry Immersion
- Collaborate. Perform. Connect.
- Work across Music, Dance, Theatre, Fine Art, and Design within the NAFA/UAS ecosystem
- Perform at premier venues such as Esplanade and Victoria Concert Hall
- Engage with leading ensembles, festivals, and cultural institutions across Singapore and the region
Digital Innovation & Global Connectivity
- Perform for the world — on stage and online.
- Integrate technology, media, and entrepreneurship into artistic practice
- Build hybrid skills for live, digital, and multimedia performance
- Participate in international exchanges with partners such as RCM (London) and CCOM (Beijing)
Graduation Requirements
In order to graduate from the Master of Performance (MPerf) programme and be eligible for the award of the degree, you must meet the following requirements:
- Attain a total of 180 credits, excluding credits associated with repeat attempts.
- Attempt and attain a minimum Grade C for all modules.
- Obtain a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.50 at the end of the programme1.
- Complete the programme within the stipulated maximum candidature period2.
1You will be graded on a 5–point Grade Point Average (GPA) system. Grades and grade points are assigned as follows:
| Letter Grade | Grade Point |
|---|
| A+ | 5.0 |
| A | 5.0 |
| A- | 4.5 |
| B+ | 4.0 |
| B | 3.5 |
| B- | 3.0 |
| C+ | 2.5 |
| C | 2.0 |
| D+ | 1.5 |
| D | 1.0 |
| F | 0.0 |
The Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) represents the grade point average of all graded modules (including failed modules) attempted by a student. The computation of CGPA is as follows:
CGPA =
| sum (module grade point x module credits assigned to module)
sum (module credits assigned to all modules used in calculating the numerator)
|
The Master of Performance (MPerf) classification and corresponding CGPA requirement is as follows:
| CGPA Range | Classification of Award |
|---|
| 4.50 – 5.00 | MPerf (Distinction) |
| 2.50 – 4.49 | MPerf |
| 0.00 – 2.49 | Will not graduate |
2The period of candidature for Master of Performance (MPerf) is as follows:
| Mode | Period of Candidature |
|---|
| Normal | Maximum |
|---|
| Full-Time | 1.5 Years or 3 Semesters | 3 Years |
| Part-Time | 2 years | 4 years |
Mode of Instruction
The Master of Performance (MPerf) offers an advanced, practice-led learning environment for professional musicians committed to artistic excellence and innovation. While performance remains central—spanning solo, chamber, and ensemble work—the programme extends beyond the stage into pedagogy, performance science, creative technology, and research.
Learning is driven by one-to-one lessons with distinguished international faculty, supported by masterclasses, workshops, ensemble projects, and seminars that cultivate artistry, versatility, and leadership.
Through tailored electives and interdisciplinary collaborations, you will shape a learning pathway aligned with your artistic identity and professional aspirations. The MPerf fosters a reflective and collaborative community where performance, inquiry, and creative experimentation converge to prepare musicians for today’s dynamic cultural landscape.
Assessment Methods
Modules are assessed through varied and authentic modes, including practical examinations, recitals, lecture-recitals, viva voce, written projects, portfolios, and presentations, or a combination thereof. Recital and performance-based assessments are normally conducted before a panel of three examiners, comprising internal faculty and at least one external specialist, ensuring fairness, transparency, and alignment with international standards in postgraduate performance training.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Master of Performance (MPerf) are prepared to thrive across the evolving landscape of music and the arts from the concert stage to creative industries, education, and digital platforms. They go on to build diverse, impactful careers such as:
Performance and Artistic Practice
- Professional Musician (Soloist, Chamber, or Ensemble Performer)
- Orchestral or Opera Musician
- Collaborative Pianist / Accompanist
- Conductor or Ensemble Director
- Session or Recording Artist
Creative and Production Roles
- Composer or Arranger
- Music Producer or Sound Designer
- Interdisciplinary or Multimedia Artist
- Festival, Concert, or Event Curator
- Music Director or Artistic Lead
Education, Pedagogy, and Research
- Lecturer or Studio Pedagogue
- Teaching Artist or Specialist Instructor
- Music Education Consultant
- Performance Researcher or Scholar
Arts Leadership, Technology, and Entrepreneurship
- Arts Administrator or Programme Manager
- Music Technologist or Digital Content Creator
- Cultural Producer or Project Lead
- Arts Entrepreneur or Startup Founder
entry requirements
NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:
- Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
- Educational Qualifications
- Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning (APEL)
- English Language Proficiency
Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.
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 two contrasting works on Alto saxophone or one on Alto and one on Tenor/Baritone)
*Trombone (applicants must perform with Tenor Trombone)
|
| Percussion Studies | Percussion
(applicants must prepare Snare Drum, Mallets, and Timpani for audition)
|
| Chinese Instrumental Studies | Gaohu, Erhu,
Liuqin, Pipa, Ruan
Guqin, Sanxian
Yangqin
Guzheng
Dizi, Sheng, Suona, Guanzi
|
| Vocal Studies | Voice (Classical) |
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 to be shortlisted for a final audition. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited to a final in-person audition.
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.
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.
- Final Audition
Following the video pre-screening, shortlisted applicants will be invited to a final in-person audition. 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 (see below for Study-specific Repertoire Requirements)
- Interview
Study-specific Repertoire Requirements
Keyboard Studies – Piano
- You are required to prepare a varied programme of at least 50 minutes
- The programme must include at least one advanced étude
- All works must be performed from memory
String Studies
You are required to prepare all of the following:
- One significant movement from a concerto composed after 1800
- One contrasting piece of your choice
- Memory is preferred but not mandatory.
Winds and Percussion Studies
- Brass, woodwind, and percussion applicants are required to prepare two contrasting pieces that demonstrate a high standard of artistry, expression, and technical command
- While memorisation is preferred for at least one piece, it is not compulsory
Vocal Studies
- You are required to prepare three contrasting pieces, including:
- One piece in English
- One piece in Italian
- One operatic or oratorio aria, with recitative included if possible
- Works from musical theatre or popular music genres will not be accepted
Chinese Instrumental Studies
- You are required to prepare all of the following:
- One significant movement from a concerto, or a solo work originally composed for instrument and orchestra （一首协奏曲）
- One traditional piece from the standard repertoire （一首传统乐曲）
- One contemporary work composed after 1970 （一首创作乐曲（1970年后））
- All works must be performed from memory
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.
- You are required to submit a personal statement (300 – 500 words) for the Master of Performance programme. The personal statement should be based on the following questions:
- Why are you applying for the Master of Performance programme, based on your ambitions and interests?
- What skills do you possess that make you suitable for the rigorous demands of the programme?
- You will be required to submit two professional references.
- You are to bring a list of the repertoire studied in depth in recent years as well as proof of recent public performances along to the in-person audition where possible.
- 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?
In-person audition datesSingapore| Audition Date |
|---|
| 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.
Applicants should normally hold an undergraduate degree in music or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution.
Degree transcripts should demonstrate competence in core areas such as performance, musicianship, and music studies.
Applicants who do not meet the formal academic entry requirements may still be considered for admission through the Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning (APEL) pathway.
Candidates must demonstrate substantial professional experience, artistic achievement, or prior learning that is equivalent to the programme’s admission standard. Each application will be assessed individually based on evidence of accomplishment and professional practice.
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following minimum test scores:
| IELTS Academic | TOEFL - iBT | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|
| 6.0 | 80 | 50 | 105 |
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
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.