Musicology at the Conservatorium
Musicologists research the history of music. They use diverse primary sources – newspapers, letters, diaries, concert programs, and more – to situate musicians and listeners within rich historical and social contexts.
At the Conservatorium, musicology is an interdisciplinary area with longstanding links to the wider humanities at the University of Melbourne, as well as with the Grainger Museum and Lyrebird Press. It sponsors a distinguished speaker series and organises weekly postgraduate seminars. It is also closely allied with Ethnomusicology and popular music studies. Today this area includes a graduate specialist program with an undergraduate pathway.
Study Musicology
Undergraduate Bachelor of Music students can apply to major in musicology, taking a guided program of specialised study that leads to a written dissertation on a topic of their choosing. Our students develop knowledge and expertise that provides a basis for independent critical enquiry and research-based writing, as well as the ability to understand and present complex concepts. Graduate student study options include the Graduate Diploma (by coursework) and research higher degrees (MMus and PhD).
Undergraduate students from other areas of the University can learn about Western art music and popular music styles through related breadth study subjects such as Music and Politics, Music and Film, and Rock Music.
Musicology courses
Our people
Musicological Society of Australia Conference 2020
Want to know more?
Get information on the courses you’re interested in, or ask our team a question.
Conservatorium events
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Lorca’s Musics and Echoes of the Spanish Civil War
Friday 17 July 2026 - All dayOn the 90th anniversary of the start of the Spanish Civil War, staff and students of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, along with international guests, join in offering a concert and launch of the new book Music, Propaganda and the Spanish Civil War (edited by Michael Christoforidis and Dieg... -
Unbound frequencies
Tuesday 28 July 2026 7:30pm - 8:40pmUnbound Frequencies showcases new composer-performer works from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music’s Interactive Composition community. Exploring synthesis, audiovisual performance, spatial sound, and experimental music practices, the program traverses immersive sonic environments, live electr... -
Master of Music (Orchestral Performance) Showcase Concert 2026
Wednesday 29 July 2026 7:30pm - 9:15pmJoin our Master of Music (Orchestral Performance) students in their annual showcase concert. You will hear the entire cohort perform alongside elite musicians from our city’s professional orchestras. The concert will be introduced by members of the ensemble and directed by Richard Davis and Tim B...