Master of Arts in Musical Performance – Jazz Producing/Performance

Guideline for the admission procedure
The admission procedure of the Academy of Music/FHNW for the Master of Arts in Musical Performance, Producing/Performance Jazz with focus on Performance takes place in several phases:

Please note: You choose one main subject (focus subject) and one complementary subject (combination subject). If you choose main subject (focus subject) Performance, you choose between Composition and Production as your complementary subject. Please state your main (focus) and complementary subject clearly in your motivation letter when applying and upload the requested materials for both the main and complementary subject before February 15, 2023.

In exceptional cases, you may be allowed to study two complementary subjects, both Composition and Production, if your main subject (focus subject) is Performance. A separate admission exam will be necessary if you want to audition for a second complementary subject. This additional audition will take place after the second round of the regular admission procedure, upon request. No material needs to be submitted for a possible additional exam at the time of applying.

Video dossier
An audiovisual (image/sound) recording must be submitted. At least three pieces of the candidate's current musical work are presented with an ensemble and/or as a soloist. We are interested in getting to know the applicant’s artistic identity, which can be rendered through musical interaction and expression as well as through personal compositions and arrangements by the candidate. The selection of the recorded music should document both the interpretative and improvisational skills and the applicant’s familiarity and affinity with jazz and/or with jazz related musical genres.

Please note:

• All tracks should be unedited full takes
• We recommend using a stereo microphone and placing it properly. If no stereo microphone is available, the microphone of a camera, computer or smartphone can also be used.
• The video should be filmed in a static perspective, hands and face should be visible.
• Public recordings may be submitted, provided that they meet the above criteria and have not been edited.
• The recordings should be recent, in no case older than one year.
• The individual pieces can be recorded separately.

Dossier Complementary Subject (Composition or Production)

Complementary Subject Composition
Three compositions from the candidate's current compositional work must be submitted:

• Audio files in MP3 format
• Corresponding scores (PDF)

Complementary Subject Production
A sound file of a recording/mix (studio production) and/or a film/video soundtrack or a remix/sound design produced by the candidate, submitted with a short write-up (PDF) documenting the production method.

Upload and transmission

• Please upload to either Vimeo (https://vimeo.com) or YouTube (https://youtube.com).
• Access to the video must be granted until the end of June 2023.
• Please submit the list of video links (instrumental/vocal performances) together with the application no later than February 15, 2023.

Letter of motivation
Please document your previous general and musical education in the letter of motivation. In addition, your motivation for and expectations of this Master degree study program should be outlined.

Master Project Plan
During this master's program, students develop their individual artistic profile. In doing so, they commit to exploring and researching topics connected to their artistic development and documenting this process. Students look to contextualize their own work with the work of others and will share the artistic outcome. At the end of their studies, they will present the results of this exploration in a master thesis, documenting the artistic process and research. They will also publicly present their master project in a concert/presentation.

The Master Project Plan needs to be submitted with the application. In it, the candidate outlines her/his artistic interests and sketches a personal approach to artistic development and artistic research. During the course of study, research questions and the methodological approach can and may evolve. When sketching the areas of your interest in the master project plan, please include aspects of professional development as well, outlining your plans to integrate your work in the professional field.

The following items should be addressed in the Master Project Plan:

• Musical/artistic interests and questions
• Contextualization of your own artistic work with that of other musicians and artists • Aims and implementation of your master studies
• Plans for professional integration during and after studies

Pre-selection
Based on the submitted dossier (video recordings, letter of motivation, Master Project Plan), a committee decides on the admission to the second round that constitutes of a live audition. Candidates who are admitted to the second round will be notified about the date of the live audition.

Audition

Ensemble and/or solo performance (duration: 20 minutes)

The performance can be designed freely. In addition to an individual artistic profile, skills in improvisation are considered important. The repertoire may consist of jazz standards as well as original compositions and/or arrangements. The repertoire may include pieces previously submitted for the first round.
In the performance, a connection to the artistic interest outlined in the Master Project Plan should be apparent. Please also prepare a repertoire list to be submitted to the committee.
Ensemble performances can be completed with the candidate's own rhythm section (which is always the case for online auditions) or with a rhythm section organized by the school. If playing with a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums) organized by the school, the repertoire must be selected in such a way that it can be accompanied based on the charts (sheet music) provided by the candidate without prior rehearsal.

Complementary subject

At the request of the committee, audition (for complementary subject Composition: two to three pieces are to be prepared) or presentation (for complementary subject Production: short presentation/audition of one to two personal productions).

Master Project Plan: Hearing/Q&A with the committee (duration: 10 minutes)

Following the audition, the Master Project Plan will be discussed. The candidate briefly presents the intended study plans and aims, and the committee then asks questions.

Choice of audition mode
At the Jazz Institute of the HSM/FHNW we offer the option to attend the second round (audition) in presence (on site) or online (live online audition). Both options will be assessed with equal attention. You must choose the mode of the audition (second round) already when submitting your application. Without expressing the wish to do the second round online, you will participate in a live (in presence) audition. Of course, local applicable COVID measures and regulations will apply at all times.

Requirements for the online audition (if chosen at the time of application)

• The online audition has to be performed with an ensemble (at least a duo).
• It is necessary to ensure the best possible conditions for a good transmission quality of the stream. We use the platform ZOOM. We recommend registering in advance on http://zoom.us to familiarize yourself with the platform.
• We recommend the use of an external microphone and, if necessary, an audio interface. For the online admission procedure, we will send a zoom link by e-mail in advance.

Guidelines for the admission procedure (PDF)

Guideline for the admission procedure
The admission procedure of the Academy of Music/FHNW for the Master of Arts in Musical Performance, Producing/Performance Jazz with focus on Composition takes place in several phases:

Please note: You choose one main subject (focus subject) and one complementary subject (combination subject). If you choose main subject (focus subject) Composition, you choose between Performance and Production as your complementary subject. Please state your main (focus) and complementary subject clearly in your motivation letter when applying and upload the requested materials for both the main and complementary subject before February 15, 2023.

In exceptional cases, you may be allowed to study two complementary subjects, both Performance and Production, if your main subject (focus subject) is Composition. A separate admission exam will be necessary if you want to audition for a second complementary subject. This additional audition will take place after the second round of the regular admission procedure, upon request. No material needs to be submitted for a possible additional exam at the time of applying.

Composition Dossier
Three compositions from the candidate's current compositional work must be submitted:

• Audio files in MP3 format
• Corresponding scores (PDF)

Dossier Complementary Subject (Performance or Production)

Complementary Subject Performance
An audiovisual (image/sound) recording must be submitted. At least three pieces of the candidate's current musical work are presented with an ensemble and/or as a soloist. We are interested in getting to know the applicant’s artistic identity, which can be rendered through musical interaction and expression as well as through personal compositions and arrangements by the candidate. The selection of the recorded music should document both the interpretative and improvisational skills and the applicant’s familiarity and affinity with jazz and/or with jazz related musical genres.

Complementary subject production
A sound file of a recording/mix (studio production) and/or a film/video soundtrack or a remix/sound design produced by the candidate, submitted with a short written (PDF) documenting the production method.

Upload and transmission

• Please upload to either Vimeo (https://vimeo.com) or YouTube (https://youtube.com).
• Access to the video must be granted until the end of June 2023.
• The composition dossier is labeled with the candidate's name and can be saved under "Work list/Work" in the registration tool.
• Please submit the list of video links (instrumental/vocal performances) together with the application no later than February 15, 2023.

Letter of motivation
Please document your previous general and musical education in the letter of motivation. In addition, your motivation for and expectations of this Master degree study program should be outlined.

Master Project Plan
During this master's program, students develop their individual artistic profile. In doing so, they commit to exploring and researching topics connected to their artistic development and documenting this process. Students look to contextualize their own work with the work of others and will share the artistic outcome. At the end of their studies, they will present the results of this exploration in a master thesis, documenting the artistic process and research. They will also publicly present their master project in a concert/presentation.

The Master Project Plan needs to be submitted with the application. In it, the candidate outlines her/his artistic interests and sketches a personal approach to artistic development and artistic research. During the course of study, research questions and the methodological approach can and may evolve.
When sketching the areas of your interest in the master project plan, please include aspects of professional development as well, outlining your plans to integrate your work in the professional field.

The following items should be addressed in the Master Project Plan:

• Musical/artistic interests and questions
• Contextualization of your own artistic work with that of other musicians and artists
• Aims and implementation of your master studies
• Plans for professional integration during and after studies

Pre-selection
Based on the submitted dossier (composition dossier, video recordings/production dossier, letter of motivation, Master Project Plan), a committee decides on the admission to the second round that constitutes of a live audition. Candidates who are admitted to the second round will be notified about the date of the live audition.

Audition
Hearing composition (duration: 20 minutes)
Presentation of up to 4 notated original compositions with different instrumentations. Both recordings (audio files) and musical scores should be presented, supplemented by prepared explanations of the individual compositions (colloquium). One of the compositions must be written for the instrumentation of a "large ensemble" (at least sextet). The scores and audio samples must be submitted electronically at least 14 days prior the second round (live audition). The presentation may also include compositions that have already been submitted for pre-selection.
In the compositions presented, a connection to the artistic interest outlined in the Master Project Plan should be apparent.

Complementary subject
At the request of the committee, audition (for complementary subject Performance; two to three pieces are to be prepared) or presentation (for complementary subject production: short presentation/audition of one to two personal productions).

Accompaniment (for complementary subject Performance): The audition can be completed with the student's own rhythm section (always the case for online auditions) or with a rhythm section organized by the university. If the audition is performed with a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums) organized by the university, the repertoire must be selected in such a way that it can be accompanied without prior rehearsal based on the scores provided in paper by the candidate.

Master Project Plan Hearing/Q&A with the committee (duration: 10 minutes)
Following the audition, the Master Project Plan is discussed. The candidate briefly presents the intended study plans and aims, and the committee then asks questions.

Choice of audition mode
At the Jazz Institute of the HSM/FHNW we offer the option to attend the second round (audition) in presence (on site) or online (live online audition). Both options will be assessed with equal attention. You must choose the mode of the audition (second round) already when submitting your application. Without expressing the wish to do the second round online, you will participate in a live (in presence) audition. Of course, local applicable COVID measures and regulations will apply at all times.

Requirements for the online audition (if chosen at the time of application)

• The online audition has to be performed with an ensemble (at least a duo).
• It is necessary to ensure the best possible conditions for a good transmission quality of the stream. We use the platform ZOOM. We recommend registering in advance on http://zoom.us to familiarize yourself with the platform.
• We recommend the use of an external microphone and, if necessary, an audio interface. For the online admission procedure, we will send a zoom link by e-mail in advance.

Guidelines for the admission procedure (PDF)

Guideline for the admission procedure
The admission procedure of the Academy of Music/FHNWfor the Master of Arts in Musical Performance, Producing/Performance Jazz with focus on Production takes place in several phases:

Please note: You choose one main subject (focus subject) and one complementary subject (combination subject). If you choose main subject (focus subject) Production, you choose between Performance and Composition as your complementary subject. Please state your main (focus) and complementary subject clearly in your motivation letter when applying and upload the requested materials for both the main and complementary subject before February 15, 2023.

In exceptional cases, you may be allowed to study two complementary subjects, both Performance and Composition, if your main subject (focus subject) is Production. A separate admission exam will be necessary if you want to audition for a second complementary subject. This additional audition will take place after the second round of the regular admission procedure, upon request. No material needs to be submitted for a possible additional exam at the time of applying.

Production dossier
A sound file of an independently produced recording/mix (studio production) and/or a film/video soundtrack or remix/sound design with a brief explanation of the production method (PDF) must be submitted.

Dossier Complementary Subject (Composition or Performance)

Complementary Subject Composition
Three compositions from the candidate's current compositional work must be submitted:

• Audio files in MP3 format
• Corresponding scores (PDF)

Complementary Subject Performance
An audiovisual (image/sound) recording must be submitted. At least three pieces of the candidate's current musical work are presented with an ensemble and/or as a soloist. We are interested in getting to know the applicant’s artistic identity, which can be rendered through musical interaction and expression as well as through personal compositions and arrangements by the candidate. The selection of the recorded music should document both the interpretative and improvisational skills and the applicant’s familiarity and affinity with jazz and/or with jazz related musical genres.

Upload and transmission

• For the upload the platform Vimeo (https://vimeo.com) or YouTube (https://youtube.com) has to be chosen.
• Access to video must be maintained through the end of June of the application year.
• The production dossier is labeled with the candidate's name and can be saved under "Work list/Work" in the registration tool.
• The links to the videos (instrumental/vocal performances) will be submitted simultaneously with the application no later than February 15, 2023.
  

Letter of motivation
Please document your previous general and musical education in the letter of motivation. In addition, your motivation for and expectations of this Master degree study program should be outlined.

Master Project Plan
During this master's program, students develop their individual artistic profile. In doing so, they commit to exploring and researching topics connected to their artistic development and documenting this process. Students look to contextualize their own work with the work of others and will share the artistic outcome. At the end of their studies, they will present the results of this exploration in a master thesis, documenting the artistic process and research. They will also publicly present their master project in a concert/presentation.

The Master Project Plan needs to be submitted with the application. In it, the candidate outlines her/his artistic interests and sketches a personal approach to artistic development and artistic research. During the course of study, research questions and the methodological approach can and may evolve. When sketching the areas of your interest in the master project plan, please include aspects of professional development as well, outlining your plans to integrate your work in the professional field.

The following items should be addressed in the Master Project Plan:

• Musical/artistic interests and questions
• Contextualization of your own artistic work with that of other musicians and artists
• Aims and implementation of your master studies
• Plans for professional integration during and after studies

Pre-selection
Based on the submitted dossier (production dossier, video recordings/composition dossier, letter of motivation, Master Project Plan), a committee decides on the admission to the second round that constitutes of a live audition. Candidates who are admitted to the second round will be notified about the date of the live audition.

Audition
Hearing Production (Duration: 20 minutes)

• Presentation of a recording/mix (studio production) and/or a film/video soundtrack or a remix/sound design on a common medium (sound files) that was realized independently. Subsequently, the candidate reports on the production method of the work. The presentation may include projects that were also submitted for pre-selection.
• Basic knowledge in production on a platform of choice (Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Max/MSP or similar) will be demonstrated by the presentation of a self-produced piece showing the artistic profile

In the compositions presented, a connection to the artistic interest outlined in the Master Project Plan should be apparent.

Complementary subject

At the request of the examination committee, audition (for complementary subject performance; two to three pieces are to be prepared) or presentation (for complementary subject composition; short presentation/audition of one to two compositions).

Accompaniment (for complementary subject Performance): The audition can be completed with the student's own rhythm section (always the case for online auditions) or with a rhythm section organized by the university. If the audition is performed with a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums) organized by the university, the repertoire must be selected in such a way that it can be accompanied without prior rehearsal on the basis of the scores brought along by the candidate.

Master Project Plan: Hearing/Q&A with the committeee (duration: 10 minutes)

Following the presentations, the Master Project Plan is discussed. The candidates briefly present the intended study objective, and the commission asks questions.

Choice of audition mode
At the Jazz Institute of the HSM/FHNW we offer the option to attend the second round (audition) in presence (on site) or online (live online audition). Both options will be assessed with equal attention. You must choose the mode of the audition (second round) already when submitting your application. Without expressing the wish to do the second round online, you will participate in a live (in presence) audition. Of course, local applicable COVID measures and regulations will apply at all times.

Requirements for the online audition (if chosen at the time of application)

• The online audition has to be performed with an ensemble (at least a duo).
• It is necessary to ensure the best possible conditions for a good transmission quality of the stream. We use the platform ZOOM. We recommend registering in advance on http://zoom.us to familiarize yourself with the platform.
• We recommend the use of an external microphone and, if necessary, an audio interface. For the online admission procedure, we will send a zoom link by e-mail in advance.

Guidelines for the admission procedure (PDF)

Core subject: concept and content

The programs core subject consists a combination of the three areas Instrument or Vocal, Composition and Music Production. The profile "allrounder" is open to choose any of these three areas for the focal point (major), while the other two complement this as combination subjects I + II (minor). The «performer» profile sets a deeper focus on instrument or vocal while composition and production are less imperative.

 *The time placement and distribution of the teaching units can be adjust each semester by a study consultation. A total of 120 minutes is available for the profile «producer» and 100 minutes for the profile «performer».

Learning outcomes:

Profile "performer"
Major focus on Instrument/Vocal: Students immerse in instrumental or vocal technical and artistic aspects. They creatively combine interpretation and improvisation with the composition and, together with their repertoire and jazz-related and non-European musical forms, develop their own musical profile. This should be deepened and include a lively performance practice in concert and studio situations. The main focus is on musical interpretation as well as on developing a virtuoso instrumental or vocal style shaped by an individual character.

Profile "composer"
If major focus on Composition: The artistic identity of the students is at the heart of this major. Their own work is fostered within criteria chosen by the students themselves. They learn to apply different musical media in a goal-oriented manner. The students come into contact with approaches and music genres outside their own field, which is important for their development. This interplay deepens their listening and critical faculties; they thereby acquire a greater depth to their artistic personality.

Profile "producer"
If major focus on Music Production: The ability to integrate acoustic/electronic instrumental performance and compositional work in a technical production environment; the ability, in the context of different styles, to choose the appropriate production instruments so as to determine the required sound; and the ability to work with different sequencer platforms and sound-modelling systems. The contents of this major are the realization and interpretation of projects chosen by the student in the form of live performances of electroacoustic music, but also media productions in the realm of popular music styles and film music.

Combined subjects (Minor I+II)
The fundamental focus of all three majors remains the same, though each one is adapted to the student’s chosen profile. The combined subject option provides students with a broader, networked education and opens up new approaches and pathways for their artistic development.

Thanks to the open modular structure and the flexible weighting and distribution of teaching sessions based on their profile, students can define their own learning outcomes and focus their efforts on project-led work.

This field of study is aimed at highly gifted instrumentalists or singers who already have a bachelor's degree in music or adequate degrees or experience.

Given the important role that electronic music technology has become in the creative process and in public performances and CD production, the study programme provides students with an in-depth knowledge of these tools. At the same time, students work intensively on honing their instrumental/vocal proficiency. With its modular structure and custom design, this study programme is the ideal choice for musicians wishing to expand their musical range, benefit from great career opportunities or boost their chances on the music market.

Developing a well-rounded and versatile artistic identity requires an ability to work effectively and constructively with other musicians, writers, arrangers and other creatives in a variety of different musical settings and styles. A thorough musical, technical and cultural knowledge makes it possible to quickly grasp the set-up and running of the entire production process, whether live or studio-based. It also provides artists with the ability to turn their artistic/creative ideas into music and do so in a technologically complex environment.

Students also increase their awareness of how the cultural context informs the creative  process in music, acquire the ability to develop a personal vision of current and new music,  and accumulate comprehensive practical and theoretical knowledge of various traditionally defined music styles.

Detailed module descriptions

Module plan

Admission to the program requires a bachelor's degree in music (Jazz) or an equivalent educational background, a passed entrance examination (audition) and sufficient open study places (if the number of passed auditions exceeds open study positions, the quality-ranking decides about awarding).

Dates of the admission procedure for the academic year 2023/24

The practical exams will take place from 01.04. to 29.04.2023.

The following information can be found on the Valuable information about your studies page:

• Study Regulations
• Scholarships and Living Costs
• Studying in Switzerland
• Tuition fees
• Study guide
• Semester dates