About us

Timps, percussion and harp on stage

A great musical life is one of the strengths of Aberystwyth and its university.

The close-knit character of the place really makes things happen. Generations of students have discovered the special quality of music here. Aber is not only a great place to live and study but a very special place for music.

Find out more about Music at Aber by clicking on the tabs.

Music at Aber's history

The history of music at Aberystwyth is long and distinguished. Well over a century ago the University College established one of Britain's first music departments. Initially under Professor Joseph Parry the musical life of the College developed, and by the 1920s Aberystwyth had become a significant musical focal point. Elgar, Vaughan Williams and Holst were among many great musicians who held special affections for the place.

We stopped offering music degrees at the end of the 1980s, but we still appreciate the importance of a vital musical life – after all, music matters.

Music at Aber today

Music is central to the celebration of cultural, social and political life in contemporary and historical Wales. Here at Aberystwyth University, situated right at the heart of the nation, we have made a key contribution to Wales’s proud and long-standing tradition of music-making. Our commitment to this tradition is evident in our continued investment in Music provision. This commitment and investment is on-going.

We have now entered a new era of vibrant music-making, listening and engagement.  We provide a varied and stimulating musical experience with the aim of spreading the benefits music brings to as many parts of our community as possible. We have re-engaged with our audiences and participants and are venturing on a new and exciting journey, in the capable hands of our new Director of Music, Iwan Teifion Davies.

Central to the Music provision’s mission is maintaining the exciting collaborative dynamic between University staff, students and the wider community in Aberystwyth.  We’re open to engaging with new styles, new musical modes and methodologies and opening up new vistas.

Whether you’re a musician or someone who loves music of any kind, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us at music@aber.ac.uk.