The Advanced Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music program provides intensive and broadly-based programs in performance, practical, theoretical, industry, style, cultural and research studies.

CASM programs aim to prepare graduates to participate in professional life, including:

• as performers, composers and arrangers
• in education
• in research
• in sound engineering and production
• in community development activities - particularly those involving music making
• in the broader music and performing arts industries
• in arts curation, managment and administration
• through further studies

Students study a range of musical styles from traditional to contemporary.  These include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music and dance, as well as blues, rock, country, reggae, jazz, classical, hiphop/rap, soul, and metal.

Admission to the Advanced Diploma of Aboriginal Studies in Music normally depends upon satisfactory completion of all courses in the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music.

CASM reserves the right to permit admission to the Advanced Diploma of Aboriginal Studies in Music to students who have not completed the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies in Music, but who provide evidence of appropriate, equivalent skills and/or prior study in all areas covered within the Diploma Program. This would normally be through formal study and relevant experience.

Program Structure

Course areas for Advanced Diploma are broadly based and include:

• Performance
• Instrumental/Vocal Studies
• Songwriting, Composition and Arranging 
• Theory of Music and Notation
• Aural Skills
• Academic and Research Skills
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies
• Style Studies
• Sound Engineering and Production
• Computers and Music
• Industry Skills
• Career Management
• Electives

• choir
• traditional dance
• yidaki (didgeridoo)
• studio techniques and sound production
• song writing, composition
• radio presentation
• computing for musicians

Instruments taught may include:

• guitar
• voice
• bass
• drums and percussion
• keyboard
• saxophone
• flute
• violin
• yidaki (didgeridoo)
• other instruments as negotiated

• Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music (CASM)
• Elder Conservatorium of Music
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education: Wilto Yerlo