SCHOOL of MUSIC

School of Music and Performing Arts ensures that students develop an appreciation of an informed critical response to music of the Western tradition. Students will learn to listen, participate attentively to music of choice and compose their own ideas using musical skills at work. 

Level and Courses

Certificate in Music Level 4
Course Code Course Name Credit
SEMESTER 1
MS 4112 Introduction to Musicianship Studies 1 15
MS 4113 Introduction to Instrument Studies 1 15
4102 Communication skills 1 15
BUS4104 Introduction to Computing 15
SEMESTER 2
MS 4114 Introduction to Musicianship 2 15
MS 4115 Introduction to Instrument Studies 2 15
4103 Communication skills 2 15
MS 4116 Keyboard & Aural Skills 15
Diploma in Music Level 5
Course Code Course Name Credit
SEMESTER 1
MS 5111 Introduction to instrument studies 3 15
MS 5112 Introduction to Music Analysis 1 15
MS 5113 Practical Musicianship 1 15
SEMESTER 2
MS 5116 Introduction to Music Analysis 2 15
MS 5117 Practical Musicianship 2 15
MS 5118 Large ensemble 2 15
MS 5119 Introduction to Jazz and Blues 1 15
Advanced Diploma in Music Level 6
Course Code Course Name Credit
SEMESTER 1
MS 6112 Performing & Composing 1 15
MS 6113 Music Theory & Musicianship 1 15
MS 6114 Large Ensemble 3 30
SEMESTER 2
MS 6115 Performing & Composing 2 15
MS 6116 Music Theory & Musicianship Harmony 2 15
MS 6117 Music Theory & Musicianship Analysis 3 15
MS 6118 Large Ensemble 4 15

Discipline

A disciplined student develops a strong work ethic, practicing regularly to improve their musical skills and achieve their goals.

Expressive

Music education fosters the ability to convey emotions and ideas through performance, enabling students to communicate effectively with their audience.

Collaborative

A collaborative student learns to work effectively with others in ensembles or groups, valuing teamwork and shared creativity in musical projects.

Innovative

Studying music encourages innovative thinking, allowing students to explore new sounds, techniques, and compositions in their musical expression.

Analytical

An analytical student develops the ability to critically evaluate music, understanding its structure, theory, and cultural context.

Resilient

Music education cultivates resilience as students learn to overcome challenges, handle feedback, and persist through difficulties in their musical journey.

Career Journey

This section provides an overview of the potential career paths and professional opportunities you can pursue after completing this program. It also illustrates your learning progression from Foundation to Graduate level, showing how your knowledge and skills will develop at each stage. Use this guide to understand both the program’s academic pathway and the career possibilities that await you upon graduation.

Performer

(Solo or Ensemble)

Singers, instrumentalists, or ensemble members in traditional, contemporary, or western music settings.

Composer / Songwriter

Create original music for performances, recordings, or special events, including both Tongan traditional and western compositions.

Music Teacher

Instructor

Teach music in schools, private studios, or community programs, sharing knowledge of theory, performance, and composition.

Church Musician

Choir Director

Lead worship music, choir practices, and church performances, an important role in Tongan and Pacific communities.

Cultural Arts Coordinator

Promote, organize, and manage cultural performances, events, and festivals.

Recording Artist

OR Producer

Work in studios to record, edit, and produce music for personal projects or other artists.

Event Performer

Provide live music at community events, weddings, official ceremonies, and festivals.

Further Study Pathway

Graduates may continue with higher education in music or performing arts at universities or conservatories abroad.
Foundation
Entry level of study introducing fundamental knowledge and skills for your chosen field.
Intermediate
Students progress into deeper understanding and develop practical, hands-on skills.
Advance
Students refine their expertise and prepare for higher-level professional responsibilities.
Graduate
Completion of the program — students are fully qualified and ready for employment or further study.

Program Entry Requirements

Certificate in Music Level 4
Selection will be by written application followed by individual interview.
Criteria Used:
  • Completion of Form 6 National Examination.
  • Mature-age applicants without formal qualifications may be admitted if they are able to demonstrate a range of attributes such as personal motivation, maturity and work experience (minimum of 2 years in the workplace) or previous study. Applicants are required to provide a personal statement outlining their interest, motivation and reasons for selecting the course including details of educational and any employment background. TTI has the necessary processes to support and to ensure that quality of its programme offerings is of high priority. Students who have enrolled are assumed to have competency in these core subjects, English, Mathematics and Music.
Diploma in Music Level 5
Selection will be by written application followed by individual interview.
Criteria Used:
  • Completion of Form 6 National Examination, minimum.
  • Completion of TTI Certificate in Music Level 4
  • Mature-age applicants without formal qualifications may be admitted if they are able to demonstrate a range of attributes such as personal motivation, maturity and work experience (minimum of 2 years in the workplace) or previous study. Applicants are required to provide a personal statement outlining their interest, motivation and reasons for selecting the course including details of educational and any employment background. TTI has the necessary processes to support and to ensure that quality of its programme offerings is of high quality.
  • audition in a specific instrument and sit an entry test Students who have enrolled are assumed to have competency in these core subjects, English, Mathematics and Music.
Applicants must demonstrate likelihood of success at Level 5 study.
Advanced Diploma in Music Level 6
Selection will be by written application followed by individual interview.
Criteria Used:
  • Completion of Diploma in Music Level 5
  • Mature-age applicants without formal qualifications may be admitted if they are able to demonstrate a range of attributes such as personal motivation, maturity and work experience (minimum of 2 years in the workplace) or previous study. Applicants are required to provide a personal statement outlining their interest, motivation and reasons for selecting the course including details of educational and any employment background. Tupou Tertiary Institute has the necessary processes to support and to ensure that quality of its programme offerings is of high priority.
  • audition in a specific instrument and sit an entry test Students who have enrolled are assumed to have competency in these core subjects, English, Mathematics and Music.

SOM Staff

Save Mataele

Program Manager

Folau Tu'ungafasi

Senior Teacher

Kaluseti Fisi'ihoi

Senior Teacher

Tu'amelie Mafi

Senior Teacher

Vacant Position:

  • 2 Lecturer Music