Kā Toi Whakaari

Music Study Options

Study Music Arts at Ara and every day you'll be exposed to a range of music styles, instruments and skills to help you identify your strengths, your passions and the direction your music career will take – whether it's as a performer, composer, producer or industry professional working with venues and artists.

We offer two qualifications: The New Zealand Certificate in Music, and the Bachelor of Music Arts.

As a Music Arts student, you'll become proficient in your chosen instrument; write and perform in your own band(s) in purpose-built facilities including rehearsal studios and a 150-seat auditorium; record in our state-of-the-art recording studios; be inspired by workshops and masterclasses from international musicians as part of our Visiting Artist Programme.

If you choose a jazz pathway you'll also:

learn jazz theory and improvisation on your chosen instrument
learn the theory and practice behind being a great jazz performer, composer or arranger
play alongside our acclaimed jazz tutors
become part of Christchurch's exciting jazz scene

If you choose a contemporary music pathway you'll also:

develop your skills for a career in pop, rock, electronic dance music or as a singer/songwriter
learn how to write and arrange songs
work alongside tutors/practicing professionals with profiles in the music industry
work alongside well known musicians as part of the APRA songwriter in residence programme (Warren Maxwell 2014, Flip Grater 2015, Julia Deans 2016, Anna Coddington 2017, Lauren and Matt Barus, 2018)