About the Programme
Our PhD programs seek to prepare students for careers in the academy, public sector, cultural heritage policy-making, and the music industry.
Key information
Duration
4 years
Attendance mode
Full-time
Location
On campus and on the field
Eligibility and Admission
A Pass in a postgraduate programme in music with a minimum of 55% marks or its equivalent and competency in a musical instrument, including voice. Applicants with a postgraduate degree in any discipline with a minimum of 55% marks with master level competency in a musical instrument, including voice can also apply.
The Department invites PhD Applications for research only in the following areas:
1. Ethnomusicology/Anthropological approaches to Music of South Asia
2. Music Pedagogy
In addition, the Department invites applications for research in the following topics:
1. Drums and drumming of South Asia
2. Temple performers / Temple performing communities
3. Neuroscience applications of Music
4. Phenomenology of Music
Selection Method
a. Proposal
b. Written Test
c. Audition
d. Personal Interview
Those who qualify UGC-NET (including JRF) / UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF) / SLET / GATE/ Teacher fellowship holder or have passed M.Phil Programme shall be exempted from the PhD Entrance Examination. Those candidates take a Research Skill Assessment Test along with their Audition and Personal Interview.
Applicants who are accomplished performers or teachers, may have alternative qualifications, and are encouraged to apply.
The PhD in Ethnomusicology/Anthropological approaches to Music of South Asia
investigates music (sound cultures) in cultural, social, and ritual aspects. While being mainly - but not exclusively - focused on Music of South Asia, our program prepares students in studying music cultures form all over the world, and assists them in approaching music from a variety of perspectives.
Our department invites applications for research in the following topics:
1. Drums and drumming of South Asia
2. Temple performers / Temple performing communities
3. Ritual music
Research methods employed include fieldwork, interview, archive research, recording and filming, transcription and analysis, composition, and performance.
The PhD in Music Pedagogy
Investigates learner-centred approaches and the constituent aspects to music education at any level of scope (preferably vocational, secondary or tertiary levels). The program prepares candidates for teacher education in their preferred area of musical specialisation.
Our department invites applications for research in the following topics:
1. Innovative and sustainable learner-centred approaches for any topic in practical (vocal / instrumental) or classroom music (composition, music theory, history, etc.).
2. Aspects of curriculum design including (but not limited to) immersive delivery; assessment; social justice; motivation and engagement; epistemology; phenomenology; automation; artificial intelligence implementation; ethics; and general music teacher education (and their subcomponents).
Qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods approaches may be adopted in case study approaches. Proposed interventions must have their topics derived from data-driven sources (not a priori). Although mainly focused on western approaches to music education, the pedagogical approaches of any musical background may be undertaken, as long as learner-centred pedagogical methodologies are the main focus of the proposed research.
Eligibility & Fee Structure
Message from the HOD
Bangalore Central Campus
The Departments of Performing Arts, Music and Theatre is more than just a collection of courses; it's a community dedicated to fostering talent, nurturing artistic expression, and exploring the boundless possibilities of performance. As a member of this department, you will discover the many opportunities and explore the new possibilities to touch the zenith of your talents.
The course is intrinsically woven to create a unique blend of theory and performances, giving space for every aspect of the field to be shaped. The skill building workshops
Message from the HOD
The Departments of Performing Arts, Music and Theatre is more than just a collection of courses; it's a community dedicated to fostering talent, nurturing artistic expression, and exploring the boundless possibilities of performance. As a member of this department, you will discover the many opportunities and explore the new possibilities to touch the zenith of your talents.
The course is intrinsically woven to create a unique blend of theory and performances, giving space for every aspect of the field to be shaped. The skill building workshops, your recitals and rehearsals, the little stages and the big productions, the inter-departmental and intra-departmental activities will all challenge you and satisfy you.
We encourage you to embrace opportunities, make best use of the resources available and collaborate with fellow artists to rediscover yourself. Whether you're honing your skills in a rehearsal room, collaborating with fellow artists, or delving into the rich history of the performing arts, know that you are part of a vibrant and supportive community dedicated to your success.
We look forward to witness the creative ensemble of each and every one of you at this course and to add colour, vibrancy and life to the already energised campus. Together, let us bring magic on every stage and in the classrooms.
Admission Process
- Register with your Email ID
- Login to the Admission Portal
- Fill the Application Form
- Pay Application Fee
- Entrance Test (If Applicable)
- Assessment
- Interview
- Check login page for result
- If selected, Offer Letter attached
- Pay Course Fee Online
- Complete Admission Process
Ready to Apply?
Applications for the 2026 batch are open. Deadline: 14-Jun-2026.