Xida Lu

MMus Music Performance and Education

Why did you choose to study at the University of Liverpool?

I chose to study at the University of Liverpool because its music programme is well-renowned. The university offers excellent teaching resources and numerous performance opportunities, including concerts.

What’s the best thing about studying your programme?

The best thing about studying the Music Performance and Education programme at the University of Liverpool is the combination of world-class faculty and the practical. The teachers are not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly dedicated to helping us grow as musicians and educators. The one-on-one lessons from my outstanding professional teacher, who provides personalised guidance tailored to our individual needs and strengths. This personalised attention is invaluable and has significantly improved my technical skills and artistic expression.

In addition to the individual lessons, the weekly performance classes are a highlight. These sessions offer a supportive yet challenging environment where we can showcase our talents and receive constructive feedback from both our teachers and peers. The feedback is always insightful and helps us refine our performance techniques and stage presence. It’s amazing to see how much we can learn from each other and from the collective wisdom of our instructors.

How do the staff support you in your studies?

The staff at the University of Liverpool are incredibly supportive. Our teachers offer tutorial sessions where they help us identify any issues or areas for improvement and provide valuable suggestions. They are also always willing to answer any questions we have and clarify any doubts regarding our studies. This level of support is crucial for our academic progress and helps us feel confident in our learning journey.

Did you access any of the support services available to you? If so, how did you find the service?

Yes, I accessed the language support services provided by the university. I found them to be very helpful, especially when I needed extra guidance on my assignments. The staff were knowledgeable and provided clear explanations, which really helped me understand complex topics better.

What has been your highlight of your time at Liverpool so far?

The highlight of my time at Liverpool so far has been the opportunity to perform in collaboration with a Royal Liverpool Philharmonic (RLP) musician. It was an incredibly rare and valuable experience to play alongside such an outstanding musician. Not only did I get to perform, but I also had the chance to watch my fellow classmates and other RLP musicians deliver amazing performances. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn from the best and be part of such a high-calibre musical event.

How do you believe undertaking postgraduate study will help your career prospects?

Undertaking postgraduate study in Music Performance and Education at the University of Liverpool has significantly enhanced my career prospects in several ways. Firstly, the curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education that focuses not only on performance but also on music education. One of the most important aspects of this programme is the exposure to various teaching methodologies. Through my studies, I have learnt educational approaches that I was previously unaware of. This knowledge has given me a more systematic understanding of how to teach music effectively, which will be crucial in my future career as a music educator.

The University offers excellent practical opportunities that have further enriched my learning experience. Our observation classes have allowed us to witness different teaching styles from various instructors, providing valuable insights into how to adapt our teaching methods to suit different learning environments. Additionally, we have had the opportunity to visit local primary schools to observe music lessons. This hands-on experience has given me a deeper understanding of how to tailor my teaching to different age groups and learning levels.

What advice would you give to anybody considering postgraduate study at Liverpool?

If you’re considering postgraduate study at the University of Liverpool, my advice would be to always stay proactive in your learning. One of the most important things I’ve learnt is to reach out to your tutors whenever you encounter something you don’t understand. The staff here are incredibly supportive and always willing to help. They are passionate about your success and will go out of their way to ensure you grasp the concepts and excel in your studies.