Modern Languages and Music

Modern languages and music is a degree that places two demanding and rewarding disciplines in productive dialogue. Languages, whether French, German, Italian, or Spanish, open access to diverse cultures, literatures, and intellectual traditions, and develop linguistic and intercultural competency that is valued across a wide range of professions. Music, as an academic discipline, combines the analytical study of musical theory and history with the practical development of performance and compositional skills.

The two disciplines share a concern with form, expression, and the ways in which human creativity is shaped by cultural context.

At Royal Holloway, this joint honours course gives you a solid grounding in both the practical and theoretical study of music, alongside the opportunity to gain fluency in the language of your choice, from French, German, Italian, or Spanish. You will develop language skills to a high level of proficiency, engaging with the literature and culture of the language you choose, while simultaneously developing your musical knowledge and skills in performance, analysis, and history. The programme includes a sandwich placement year and a work placement, integrating professional experience into the four-year full-time degree.

Graduates of modern languages and music programmes pursue careers in music performance, music education, arts administration, translation, journalism, broadcasting, cultural organisations, and international business. The combination of rare language skills and musical training is valued in settings ranging from opera houses and arts festivals to language schools and international cultural institutions. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in musicology, languages, or arts management.