A worldwide reputation for innovative research across sub-disciplines of music studies, and as a centre for internationally acclaimed composition.
Based on the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021), the Department of Music – along with the Department of Film Studies, as a joint submission – is the 4th ranked institution in the UK. Alongside that, 100 per cent of research impact and research environment was rated either ‘world-leading’ (4*) or ‘Internationally excellent’ (3*).
Our research is characterised by a varied historical, geographical and methodological reach, from the emergence of love song in 12th century France, to 18th and 19th century Indian classical music, to issues of race in 20th century jazz, and more. Meanwhile, our composition is both anchored in cutting-edge techniques and draws from diverse cultural traditions, engaging a range of musical ideas and practices from the Middle Ages to the present.
Situated in the heart of London, we have long-standing research partnerships with institutions such as the British Library, the British Museum, and performance ensembles such as Oxford Maqam.