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2019 Master of Arts Screen: Music

Applications open:
02 Jul 2018

Applications close:
17 Oct 2018

Duration:
2 years full-time

Attendance:
Three days face-to-face per week

Sydney

Domestic Fee:
$50,976 ($25,488 p.a.)

The fee shown is the indicative course tuition fee, expressed as a both a total course cost and per annum cost. For more information, see fees and scholarships below.

FEE-HELP and scholarships available

International Fee:
$101,952 ($50,976 p.a.)

The fee shown is the indicative course tuition fee, expressed as a both a total course cost and per annum cost. For more information, see fees and scholarships below.

Register Interest

1300 131 461

Become a creative leader in the global screen industry

In the Master of Arts Screen: Music you examine how to apply varied styles of music to screen narratives. You will discover how music works with images, plot, editing, dialogue and other onscreen and soundtrack elements to create meaning and move audiences.

Throughout the course, you develop your own unique voice as you write and produce music in collaboration with students from other disciplines. You evaluate the most effective technologies to help you realise your ideas and undertake in-depth research to explore the possibilities of the form.

Is the 2019 Master of Arts Screen: Music right for you?

Why do this course

This course is designed for those who seek the skills and knowledge to become a screen composer, arranger, programmer, orchestrator, copyist, or music editor of film, television, documentary, advertising or web-based and interactive projects.

By the end of the course you will be equipped to work at a professional level on screen narratives of all kinds.

What you can expect

The course will be delivered in a combination of coursework, practical exercises and research. The coursework will look at the repertoire of films, television programs, and interactive narrative, and discover what filmmakers and composers have done in the past (and how and why they have done it) and what they are doing now (and how and why they do it), taking note of shifting styles in music scoring.

The practical work will require you to write and produce music for a range of exercises and projects in collaboration with your fellow Masters students, which will increase in scope and complexity as you progress through the course. You will focus on exploring the possibilities of the form, finding an innovative approach to the craft, developing an individual voice, and achieving excellence in the execution.

Industry practitioners will contribute to the coursework program, providing insights into their practice. In small, cross-disciplinary groups, you will collaborate with your peers to develop a shared vocabulary of cinematic storytelling and life-long collaborative networks.

In your final year, you create a funded major project using AFTRS’ extensive production facilities to realise your vision and undertake a professional placement.

Across the course, you will be supported to consider who you are as a creative practitioner and develop an adaptable, creative skill-set.  Learning to document and analyse your process through the development of a practice-based research project, you will understand how you have been informed by innovations and processes of the past, and how your practice engages with contemporary screen culture and its emerging trends and technologies.

Career opportunities

The Master or Arts Screen: Music enables you to work at a professional level on screen narratives of all kinds. You will graduate with the skills and knowledge to become a screen composer, arranger, programmer, orchestrator, copyist or music editor in film, television, documentary, advertising or web-based and interactive screen projects.

AFTRS screen composing alumni include: Antony Partos Animal Kingdom (2010), The Slap (2011); Caitlin Yeo president Australian Screen Composers Guild, The Rocket (2013), The Butterfly Tree (2017); Matteo Zingales The Hunter (2011), Farenheit 451 (2018), Mystery Road (2018).

Meet our Head of Music

Cameron Patrick

Cameron Patrick is an Annie Award nominee and AGSC Screen Music Award winner whose screen experience spans 29 years. He…

Learn More

Demonstrate and apply advanced knowledge of theory and practice as a professional and creative leader in their discipline.

Critically evaluate and apply a deep understanding of cinematic storytelling to create audience-engaged work for the screen.

Justify and implement a reflective creative practice that synthesises specialist knowledge, research and an understanding of personal process.

Apply an adaptable skill set.

Demonstrate an ability to lead, inspire and collaborate across diverse projects with a confidence in their creative voice and core value.

Get Answers

How to apply

To apply you will need to:

1. Answer all mandatory questions marked with an asterisk (*).
2. Upload supporting documentation, which includes certified copies of your:

a) Proof of citizenship/residency
b) Highest educational qualification
3. Upload specific application tasks relevant to the course for which you are applying.
4. Agree to the terms and conditions at the end of the application.

You do not have to complete your application in one sitting. Save your application and log back in at any time prior to the closing date to pick up where you left off.

When uploading application tasks that are media/video files, please be patient as this can take some time.

If you require assistance, please contact the Student Centre (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au

Admission requirements

Places in this course are competitive and are based on merit selection.

1. Prerequisites

Applicants to postgraduate programs are required to hold a relevant undergraduate degree at bachelor level, or to have completed equivalent work experience and/or training.

The typical duration of a bachelor degree is 3-4 years, and candidates applying by degree equivalence are required to demonstrate they have achieved corresponding learning outcomes by completing a similar volume of relevant work experience and/or training. If you wish to apply for admission to a postgraduate program by degree equivalence, contact the Student Centre.

Applicants will also need the ability to read music and orchestral scores and have a working knowledge of instrumentation, music notation and music theory.

2. Selection criteria

1. Demonstrated experience or related skills relevant to discipline.
2. A distinct creative perspective.
3. A proven capacity for leadership and collaboration.
4. A willingness and capacity to engage in critical thinking, reflection and research.

3. Resume and educational qualifications

Provide a one-page list of your achievements, educational qualifications and work experience. You must also provide a certified copy of your highest education level.

4. Proof of citizenship/residency

Ensure you submit a certified copy of your birth certificate or passport.

Application tasks

The Application tasks listed below are for the 2019 course, these tasks are, however, indicative of the 2020 application tasks. Confirmed tasks will be listed when the 2020 course opens for applications on 1 July 2019.

1. Short film task


Watch and download (from the following link) the short film The Space between the Door and the Wall and read the following guiding statement:

“In the space between the door and the wall there lies a sliver of light in a dark world of desire.”

First, compose and record a score for this short film. Incorporate with the short film file (the timecode window can be ignored) to produce a new media file. We are interested in how you manage and develop theme and tone in synchronisation with the cycles of tension and release on screen and what your music might suggest about the psychology of the protagonist (submit as 1 audio-video media file).

Then, use the guiding statement above as a starting point write a short description in 200-300 words explaining your approach and intention with the score and the musical choices you made to achieve it (submit as PDF file).

2. Contemporary screen music statement

Write a statement on your impressions of screen music in the contemporary environment and your hopes and ambitions in this field. Discuss in 500 words at least one area of particular interest to you in film music that you would like to spend time researching or developing further over the course of your studies (submit as PDF file).

3. Creative statement

Make a 2 minute audio-visual work that presents who you are, as a creator; why you want to complete the MA Screen – Music; and what you hope to get out of your time at AFTRS (submit as media file).

4. Creative work

Your creative submission should demonstrate your best work. Be selective with your choices. We would like to see:

• 3 pieces of original music (not with picture). Maximum total length 15 minutes. Can be an excerpt from longer work. Credits must be fully attributed with writing (or co-writing), performance, musicians and recording details (submit as WAV or mp3 stereo files and PDF of written score or chart if available).
• 3 pieces of music written and performed for moving picture. Maximum total length 15 minutes. Can be excerpts. Credits must be fully attributed with writing (or co-writing), performance, musicians and recording details (submit as QuickTime or mpeg4 or similar files and PDF of written score or chart if available).

Changes in circumstances may impact upon the accuracy or currency of information. While AFTRS takes all due care to ensure that the information is accurate, it reserves the right to vary any information described here without notice.

Fees and scholarships

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees shown above are the indicative course tuition fees, expressed as both a total course cost and per annum cost. They are reviewed each year and you are liable for the additional tuition costs if the tuition fees rise during the course of your enrolment.

FEE-HELP

This course is FEE-HELP approved. Refer to the Study Assist website for details.

Scholarships

AFTRS Storytelling, Equity, Virgin Australia and Indigenous Scholarships available.

Note: FEE-HELP and scholarships are available for eligible domestic students only.

International students

AFTRS welcomes international student applications into this course. You must be aware of your English language proficiency, visa conditions, health insurance and financial obligations you are required to meet as an overseas student.

Please refer to the International Students section for further information.

Admission requirements

International applicants must meet:

(a) the same academic admission requirements as domestic applicants, and
(b) a minimum English proficiency equivalent to an overall band score of 8.0 IELTS (exemption categories apply).

How to apply

To apply as an international student, there are several steps you will need to go through:

1. Admission requirements

Ensure that you meet the admission requirements above.

2. Obtain the application form

Contact the Student Centre on (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au to discuss your intention to apply and ask for an international student application form to be sent to you. DO NOT use the ‘Apply Now’ button at the top of this page to apply online – this is for domestic students only.

3. Gather required documents

You must provide the required application documents when you submit your application. These documents include:

(a) all application tasks,
(b) resume,
as well as certified copies of your:
(c) highest educational qualification,
(d) passport, and
(e) English language proficiency test results.

Documents submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a complete English translation made by an accredited translator.

4. Apply for the course

Send both your completed application form and the required documents back to the Student Centre prior to the closing date.

5. Wait for your offer

Assessment of your application will take place once the closing date has passed. You will be notified if further documents or additional information is required.
All international applicants who are considered for a place in the course will be required to attend an interview either in person (if already in Australia) or via online conference call (e.g. Skype).

6. Receive an offer

If your application is successful, you will receive an email with an Offer and Enrolment Guide comprising of:

1. Letter of Offer
2. How to accept your offer
3. How to pay your fees
4. How to obtain health cover
5. Enrolment information
6. Other related material

AFTRS also emails unsuccessful applicants.

7. Accept your offer

When you receive your Offer and Enrolment Guide, review your Letter of Offer and make sure all details are correct (including the exact spelling of your name). Accept your offer as per the instructions supplied.

8. Pay your fees and obtain health cover

Make arrangements to pay your fees and apply for Overseas Health Insurance Cover (OSHC). Provide a copy of your OSHC to the Student Centre.
You will then receive an email that confirms your enrolment, called a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

9. Apply for a student visa

Apply for a student visa with the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide your OSHC & CoE as part of this application.

10. Receive student visa

Advise the Student Centre once you have been successful in obtaining a student visa. We will then send you additional information regarding commencing your enrolment in your course.

If you require assistance with any of the above steps, please contact the Student Centre on (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au

Get Answers

How to apply

To apply you will need to:

1. Answer all mandatory questions marked with an asterisk (*).
2. Upload supporting documentation, which includes certified copies of your:

a) Proof of citizenship/residency
b) Highest educational qualification
3. Upload specific application tasks relevant to the course for which you are applying.
4. Agree to the terms and conditions at the end of the application.

You do not have to complete your application in one sitting. Save your application and log back in at any time prior to the closing date to pick up where you left off.

When uploading application tasks that are media/video files, please be patient as this can take some time.

If you require assistance, please contact the Student Centre (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au

Admission requirements

Places in this course are competitive and are based on merit selection.

1. Prerequisites

Applicants to postgraduate programs are required to hold a relevant undergraduate degree at bachelor level, or to have completed equivalent work experience and/or training.

The typical duration of a bachelor degree is 3-4 years, and candidates applying by degree equivalence are required to demonstrate they have achieved corresponding learning outcomes by completing a similar volume of relevant work experience and/or training. If you wish to apply for admission to a postgraduate program by degree equivalence, contact the Student Centre.

Applicants will also need the ability to read music and orchestral scores and have a working knowledge of instrumentation, music notation and music theory.

2. Selection criteria

1. Demonstrated experience or related skills relevant to discipline.
2. A distinct creative perspective.
3. A proven capacity for leadership and collaboration.
4. A willingness and capacity to engage in critical thinking, reflection and research.

3. Resume and educational qualifications

Provide a one-page list of your achievements, educational qualifications and work experience. You must also provide a certified copy of your highest education level.

4. Proof of citizenship/residency

Ensure you submit a certified copy of your birth certificate or passport.

Application tasks

The Application tasks listed below are for the 2019 course, these tasks are, however, indicative of the 2020 application tasks. Confirmed tasks will be listed when the 2020 course opens for applications on 1 July 2019.

1. Short film task


Watch and download (from the following link) the short film The Space between the Door and the Wall and read the following guiding statement:

“In the space between the door and the wall there lies a sliver of light in a dark world of desire.”

First, compose and record a score for this short film. Incorporate with the short film file (the timecode window can be ignored) to produce a new media file. We are interested in how you manage and develop theme and tone in synchronisation with the cycles of tension and release on screen and what your music might suggest about the psychology of the protagonist (submit as 1 audio-video media file).

Then, use the guiding statement above as a starting point write a short description in 200-300 words explaining your approach and intention with the score and the musical choices you made to achieve it (submit as PDF file).

2. Contemporary screen music statement

Write a statement on your impressions of screen music in the contemporary environment and your hopes and ambitions in this field. Discuss in 500 words at least one area of particular interest to you in film music that you would like to spend time researching or developing further over the course of your studies (submit as PDF file).

3. Creative statement

Make a 2 minute audio-visual work that presents who you are, as a creator; why you want to complete the MA Screen – Music; and what you hope to get out of your time at AFTRS (submit as media file).

4. Creative work

Your creative submission should demonstrate your best work. Be selective with your choices. We would like to see:

• 3 pieces of original music (not with picture). Maximum total length 15 minutes. Can be an excerpt from longer work. Credits must be fully attributed with writing (or co-writing), performance, musicians and recording details (submit as WAV or mp3 stereo files and PDF of written score or chart if available).
• 3 pieces of music written and performed for moving picture. Maximum total length 15 minutes. Can be excerpts. Credits must be fully attributed with writing (or co-writing), performance, musicians and recording details (submit as QuickTime or mpeg4 or similar files and PDF of written score or chart if available).

Changes in circumstances may impact upon the accuracy or currency of information. While AFTRS takes all due care to ensure that the information is accurate, it reserves the right to vary any information described here without notice.

Fees and scholarships

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees shown above are the indicative course tuition fees, expressed as both a total course cost and per annum cost. They are reviewed each year and you are liable for the additional tuition costs if the tuition fees rise during the course of your enrolment.

FEE-HELP

This course is FEE-HELP approved. Refer to the Study Assist website for details.

Scholarships

AFTRS Storytelling, Equity, Virgin Australia and Indigenous Scholarships available.

Note: FEE-HELP and scholarships are available for eligible domestic students only.

International students

AFTRS welcomes international student applications into this course. You must be aware of your English language proficiency, visa conditions, health insurance and financial obligations you are required to meet as an overseas student.

Please refer to the International Students section for further information.

Admission requirements

International applicants must meet:

(a) the same academic admission requirements as domestic applicants, and
(b) a minimum English proficiency equivalent to an overall band score of 8.0 IELTS (exemption categories apply).

How to apply

To apply as an international student, there are several steps you will need to go through:

1. Admission requirements

Ensure that you meet the admission requirements above.

2. Obtain the application form

Contact the Student Centre on (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au to discuss your intention to apply and ask for an international student application form to be sent to you. DO NOT use the ‘Apply Now’ button at the top of this page to apply online – this is for domestic students only.

3. Gather required documents

You must provide the required application documents when you submit your application. These documents include:

(a) all application tasks,
(b) resume,
as well as certified copies of your:
(c) highest educational qualification,
(d) passport, and
(e) English language proficiency test results.

Documents submitted in a language other than English must be accompanied by a complete English translation made by an accredited translator.

4. Apply for the course

Send both your completed application form and the required documents back to the Student Centre prior to the closing date.

5. Wait for your offer

Assessment of your application will take place once the closing date has passed. You will be notified if further documents or additional information is required.
All international applicants who are considered for a place in the course will be required to attend an interview either in person (if already in Australia) or via online conference call (e.g. Skype).

6. Receive an offer

If your application is successful, you will receive an email with an Offer and Enrolment Guide comprising of:

1. Letter of Offer
2. How to accept your offer
3. How to pay your fees
4. How to obtain health cover
5. Enrolment information
6. Other related material

AFTRS also emails unsuccessful applicants.

7. Accept your offer

When you receive your Offer and Enrolment Guide, review your Letter of Offer and make sure all details are correct (including the exact spelling of your name). Accept your offer as per the instructions supplied.

8. Pay your fees and obtain health cover

Make arrangements to pay your fees and apply for Overseas Health Insurance Cover (OSHC). Provide a copy of your OSHC to the Student Centre.
You will then receive an email that confirms your enrolment, called a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

9. Apply for a student visa

Apply for a student visa with the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide your OSHC & CoE as part of this application.

10. Receive student visa

Advise the Student Centre once you have been successful in obtaining a student visa. We will then send you additional information regarding commencing your enrolment in your course.

If you require assistance with any of the above steps, please contact the Student Centre on (02) 9805 6444 or studentinfo@aftrs.edu.au

DISCLAIMER ** Changes in circumstances may impact upon the accuracy or currency of information. While AFTRS takes all due care to ensure that the information is accurate, it reserves the right to vary any information described here without notice.