The Department of Music offers an exciting array of music programmes including the BA (Hons), MA, PgDM, PgCM, MPhil, and PhD. Work in the Department is based on the complementary elements of musical knowledge, creativity, and performance; both Western and Chinese music are emphasized. There is a focus in the area of recent technology including sound recording, computer-assisted instruction, information technology and electro-acoustic music composition, as well as music education and pedagogy. Performance ensembles include the University Choir, Girls' Choir, Orchestra, African Drumming Ensemble, Indonesian Gamelan, Handbell Ensemble, Chamber Choir, Contemporary Music Workshop, Chinese Music Ensemble, and various chamber ensembles which present regular concerts on campus and at other public venues.

Areas of specialization are in composition, conducting, electro-acoustic music, music education, music theory and analysis, musicology, and performance. Students frequently have the opportunity to participate in master-classes and attend performances and lectures offered by internationally renowned musicians visiting from overseas and the mainland. The Department sponsors international performance tours as well as study tours particularly to mainland China. Facilities include a rehearsal hall; a keyboard/computer laboratory; the Electro-Acoustic Music Centre and recording studios; a technology laboratory designated for MA students' use and the Laboratory for Music Exploration and Research.

Complementing the BA and MA programmes, the Department offers music courses to University students outside the degree programmes. It also participates with the Department of Education Studies on a four-year programme leading to a BA in Music and a Diploma in Education (2+2).