

The Master of Arts in Music, with a focus on Improvisation and World Music Performance at University of Gothenburg, is a two-year, full-time program designed for musicians passionate about exploring improvisational techniques and world music traditions. The program offers an in-depth study of various musical styles from around the globe, including jazz, traditional, and contemporary forms of improvisation. Students will engage in both individual and group performances, experimenting with different musical languages, instruments, and collaborative dynamics, while also honing their ability to adapt and innovate in live performance settings.
Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers as improvisational musicians, world music performers, and music educators, with opportunities in concert performance, recording, and teaching. The University of Gothenburg provides access to expert faculty, a diverse musical environment, and numerous performance opportunities, ensuring students have the skills and experience needed to succeed in the world of improvisational and world music performance.
Semester 1 – Foundations of Improvisation and World Music
• Introduction to World Music and Cultural Contexts
• Improvisation Techniques in Music Performance
• Musical Traditions Across the Globe
• Research Methods in World Music
Semester 2 – Advanced Improvisation and World Music Performance
• Advanced Techniques in Jazz and Global Improvisation
• Fusion of Western and Non-Western Music
• Performance Techniques and Collaborative Music
• Elective Modules in World Music Performance
Semester 3 – Specialized Improvisation and World Music Performance
• Improvisation in African, Asian, and Latin American Music
• Music and Identity in Cross-Cultural Contexts
• World Music for Performance and Production
• Fieldwork/Research Project in World Music
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
• Independent Research / Thesis
• Advanced Topics in World Music Performance
• Final Presentation & Research Evaluation
Graduates of the Music, Improvisation and World Music Performance program can pursue careers as world music performers, improvisation artists, music educators, and music directors. Many work in world music ensembles, theater productions, festivals, or as solo performers. The program also prepares graduates for roles in music education, cultural institutions, and music production, where they can share their unique musical talents with diverse audiences around the world.
The Music, Improvisation and World Music Performance program combines the study of traditional music forms with improvisation techniques, allowing students to develop a unique style that blends cultural influences and musical creativity. Students will explore music from diverse cultures and learn how to incorporate improvisation into performances. The program emphasizes cultural awareness, musical versatility, and collaboration, ensuring graduates are prepared to perform and create in a variety of musical settings, both locally and internationally.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +46 31 786 0000
Email: info@gu.se
Address: University of Gothenburg, Vasagatan 1, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden