Teaching methods and programme facilities
Music therapy isn’t just an academic subject, it is a practical craft so teaching and learning are multi-faceted.
Placement learning: your one day a week placement is central to everything you do. In the early days you are closely supervised. As time goes by you are expected to demonstrate that you can take responsibility for your learning on placement.
Supervision: every week you get an opportunity to bring your work to supervision. This is a central skill for Nordoff Robbins music therapists, honing your acutely perceptive listening to recordings of sessions so that you can learn from your own practice and that of others. This demands considerable openness – we expect you to share and discuss your work with others, enriching everyone’s learning experience.
Whole group learning takes place when we invite guest speakers, discuss theory or aspects of research, or make music as a group.
Small group learning is used when teaching musical skills. This enables us to give each student sufficient individual attention.
Facilities
You have access to two truly unique and world-class facilities: the Nordoff Robbins Centre in London and the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. You will have plenty of opportunities to join in with broader musical life at your teaching base.
Teaching rooms
All the teaching rooms are fully equipped with the instruments, recording and presentation equipment.
Access to literature
- A stock of multiple copies of core texts is held at both teaching bases for the exclusive use of the students on the MMT(NR) programme.
- You can use the Learning Resources Centre at the London Centre with its specialist music therapy library. Students in Manchester can order books for delivery at a few days’ notice.
- Students at both centres can use the library at City University, including its vast electronic library.
- Students in Manchester have access to the library at the Royal Northern College of Music.
Intranet facilities – The Hub
You can access The Hub – our intranet system – from any internet-connected computer and use it for:
- Accessing teaching material
- Submitting assignments
- Private study: there is a designated area for the MMT(NR) programme
- Email contact with other students and with tutors.
Rest and recreation
Whether you study in Manchester or London you will find yourselves part of a community committed to music and music making. The RNCM offers masses of social activities and a comprehensive programme of concerts and recitals. The Nordoff Robbins London Centre, although smaller, has a vibrant musical life, including concerts and community music activities.
