Master in History of Art and Archaeology : Musicology

Whatever the focus they choose (applied musicology or teaching), by the end of their Master students master the links between the programme's various areas; in addition, they have acquired critical thinking skills, have become independent and original in their scientific approach, and master the techniques involved in exploiting and sharing the results of their research.

The goal of the focus on applied musicology is to provide the knowledge and methodological skills required to analyse, interpret, and contextualise all forms of musical expression in a pluridisciplinary perspective, from composition to reception through distribution. The knowledge and skills gained will enable students to write their dissertation, in which they must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the range of research techniques covered during the Master programme.

The teaching focus prepares students to work as educators.

This Master programme is geared towards the history of western music from the Middle Ages to the present, which it addresses from a number of different standpoints (analysis, study of printed and handwritten sources, notation, study of the development of different genres and forms, history of institutions such as concert societies, operas, and conservatories). It also offers an introduction to the study of popular music. Contacts developed with universities in Europe (France, Austria, and Italy) and North America (Montreal) mean that students have the opportunity to spend time abroad, for instance through the Erasmus programme.

The ULB is ideally located in a city rich in libraries (with varied collections concerning regional history), museums, cinemas, cultural centres, and exhibition and conference spaces. Brussels attracts both musicians and music and art-lovers, particularly due to its Museum of Musical Instruments, numerous concerts, opera performances, etc. Contacts developed with European universities (in France, Austria and Italy) as well as in North America (Montréal) mean that students have the opportunity to spend time abroad.