Diploma of Sacred Music

Course Description

Grade 8 Theory

Counterpoint and harmony are fundamental building blocks of western classical music. Studying these topics deepens appreciation across a wide range of genres and cultivates sensibility and creativity in music-making. This course fosters a solid understanding of these concepts and prepares students for the ABRSM Grade 8 theory examination. Topics covered include figured bass, chromatic harmony, four-part writing and music analysis.

Credits: 20
Contact Hours: 44
Tuition Fee: HK$4,400

***Exemption***
Students can be exempted from the ‘Grade 8 Theory Course’ if they fulfil one of the following conditions:
1. attained a pass or above in the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Grade 8 Theory Examination
2. awarded with a certificate of ABRSM Grade 8 Theory Course offered by HKSKH Ming Hua Theological College

Aural Training and Musicianship (1)

The course enhances students’ ability to recognise different intervals and chords, develops their intonation and rhythmic sensitivity, and improves sight-reading skills through practical exercises. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to sight-sing diatonic melodies with solfège, aurally identifying different types of triads, and accurately counting regular meters and basic rhythms.

Credits: 5
Contact Hours: 10
Tuition Fee: HK$1,000

Aural Training and Musicianship (2)

This course is a continuation of Aural Training and Musicianship (1). Upon completion of this course, students would be proficient in singing chromatic melodic lines with solfège, aurally identifying different types of seventh chords, and accurately counting irregular meters and more complex rhythms.

Credits: 5
Contact Hours: 10
Tuition Fee: HK$1,000

Western Art Music History

This course is a survey on the history of western classical music from Renaissance to twentieth century. Students will study the musical features of different periods and how they evolved in relation to the course of social, philosophical, and technological developments.

Credits: 10
Contact Hours: 20
Tuition Fee: HK$2,000

Choral, Organ and Vocal Literature

In this course, students will study selected masterworks in western classical music and appreciate them through historical, analytical, and performance-based perspectives.

Credits: 10
Contact Hours: 20
Tuition Fee: HK$2,000

Music & Liturgy

Serving in church music ministry requires a fundamental understanding on liturgical practices, as different types of music are appropriate for different parts of the service and various seasons of the church calendar. This course introduces the basic liturgical rites along with their corresponding musical repertories.

Credits: 10
Contact Hours: 20
Tuition Fee: HK$2,000

Vocal / Instrumental Training (1)

Practical skills are essential for church musicians to undertake various performance-related duties when serving in the music ministry. Students will receive one-on-one lessons with leading musicians in Hong Kong to improve their skills. The 2025/27 intake offers options for students to take vocal or organ lessons.

Credits: 10
Contact Hours: 8
Tuition Fee: HK$6,400

Vocal / Instrumental Training (2)

As a continuation of Vocal/ Instrumental Training (1), students are expected to reach at least the level of Grade 8 in ABRSM practical examination by the completion of the two courses.

Credits: 10
Contact Hours: 8
Tuition Fee: HK$6,400