Overview
The minimum offer is A*AA at A-level, or 7 7 6 (42+ overall) from Higher Level subjects in the IB. For other qualifications, please see the University entrance requirements page.
A-level/IB Higher Level or equivalent in Music - not Music Technology. ABRSM Grade VIII theory at Merit or Distinction may be accepted as a substitute. If you have any questions, please email us at admissions@clare.cam.ac.uk.
A basic knowledge of harmony, counterpoint and analytical skills, such as can be studied at A-level, is very useful. Essay-based subjects will prepare you well for undergraduate study.
Written work
One essay on a musical subject, and one original composition or music theory exercise will be required. The essay and theory/ composition exercise should have been written as part of your normal school work for A Level (or equivalent); they should not be written specially for the occasion and should have been marked by a member of your school/college staff, if possible. There will also be an opportunity to send us a recording of you performing.
Music at Clare
At Clare, teaching takes all forms: lectures (formal instruction given by members of the Music Faculty Staff), seminars (smaller groups supervised by Faculty Lecturers but involving student participation), Faculty classes for keyboard and aural training, and College-based supervisions (informal, but intensive discussion in small groups).
Supervisions are given in all subjects being studied for the Tripos and represent the core of work done during the term. Essays, and exercises in harmony, counterpoint and composition, etc, are set and marked on a weekly basis.
Music students have access both to the University Library and to the Pendlebury Library in the Faculty. The Pendlebury is one of the best equipped music faculty libraries in the country, containing a full range of complete editions, miniature scores, sheet music and music text books, as well as an excellent library of recordings. There are video-tape facilities and listening booths for recorded music.
Clare College, situated close to both the University Library and the Pendlebury, has a well-stocked Tripos-orientated music section in the Forbes Mellon Library.
The College’s Choir website, www.clarecollegechoir.com, gives further details of practical music-making in the College and testimonials from the many distinguished musical alumni of the College.
Visit the University's subject page for more information.
Graham Ross oversees all practical music-making in the College, teaches conducting on the MMus Course and supervises for the Music Tripos. He has established an exceptional reputation as a sought-after conductor and composer of a very broad range of repertoire.
Professor Frolova-Walker specialises in German Romanticism, Russian & Soviet Music and Nationalism in Music.
