Kā Toi Whakaari

Music Arts

Express and enhance your artistic talents and build a rewardingly creative career in the music industry.

The music industry is huge and demand for talented, professional musicians is strong across a diverse range of career paths. Our highly respected music programmes will equip you with the skills, knowledge and performance experience needed to become a confident, capable and creative musician who can take advantage of this demand.

You'll learn from internationally acclaimed jazz, contemporary and classical musicians in a supportive, collaborative environment, alongside students from all over New Zealand who want to pursue a career in the global music industry. You'll also gain inspiration from our visiting artists and Songwriter in Residence programmes which connect students to leading local and international musicians.

When you join us at Ara, you’ll become part of New Zealand’s vibrant, exciting music scene where home-grown talent is celebrated and you’ll have extensive opportunities to build a rewarding and satisfying creative career.

Our Bachelor of Music is available with three pathways:

Music Creation

This pathway focuses on writing music - everything from contemporary songs and advertising jingles to film scores and gaming soundtracks.

Music Performance

This pathway focuses on the performance of music – of any genre, both live and in the studio.

Music Production

This pathway focuses on the production of music, both live and recorded.

Disability Statement

If you think you may require modifications in order to undertake the practical components of a particular course of study, we encourage you to discuss these with us so we can give them careful consideration.

As it may take time to consider and implement any modifications, please contact disability@ara.ac.nz as early as possible prior to the course starting. We’ll also need to check that there’s no risk of harm to you or anyone else before making a final decision.

Throughout this process we’ll communicate with you in a clear and timely manner.