Doctoral Programme (Research)

Guildhall School’s research programme is distinctive in that it is dedicated to the performing arts. Researchers pursue self-directed projects that connect creative practice with scholarly enquiry in an outstanding conservatoire with world-class facilities.

Research degrees are awarded for an independent research project that contributes to existing knowledge. Guildhall School’s Postgraduate Research Programme has a distinctive focus on research in, through and for the performing arts. As a world-leading conservatoire, we are well equipped to support research projects that integrate creative practice with scholarly enquiry. A unique aspect of the researcher experience at Guildhall is our year-long training programme during your first year of study which gives you the tools to vision and realize your project, as well as helping you negotiate the various stages and milestones of a research degree. Offering up to 120 hours a year, this provides some of the most comprehensive training in the sector. This is in addition to your supervisory team, a bespoke set of advisors who have the appropriate combination of academic and artistic expertise to supervise your work as it develops.

Our postgraduate researchers investigate a wide range of topics in music, theatre and related artistic and pedagogic practices, including composition, instrumental performance, historical performance, opera and theatre-making, live art, socially engaged arts practice, music therapy, performing arts pedagogies, institutions and cultures. Their research tends to fall within these three broad themes:

21st century creative processes in new music composition across a broad range of genres; theatre, opera and interdisciplinary, participatory and socially engaged arts practice; production arts, including audio-visual and stage design.

The performers or practitioner’s perspective in the context of: concert and chamber music, jazz and other music of the black Atlantic; electronic and produced musical genres; acting, theatre and live art; digital arts practice; design for stage, screen and virtual environments

Training and professional development of performing arts practitioners - including pedagogic approaches; music-led therapeutic practices; conservatoire cultures.

Researchers across these disciplines and subject areas study together on our specialist research training programme which creates opportunities for fruitful exchange and mutual support. What also unites our postgraduate researchers at the Guildhall School is a commitment to exploring the role of the performing arts practitioner in society, and the personal, social, ethical and political impact and implications of performing arts practices.

Types of research award
A research degree can offer a substantial period of reflection and renewal for artists and pedagogues exploring their own practice. It is also a preparation for a research career. It is a significant and lengthy undertaking, demanding a high level of self-motivation, intellectual curiosity, resilience and commitment. A PhD or DMus is usually undertaken over 3-4 years (full time) or 6-7 years (part time) and an MPhil is 2 years (full time) or 4 years (part time). We recognize MPhil as a distinctive qualification in its own right, suited to those looking for a shorter, more focused period of research.