Music Performance: degrees, diplomas and programs

Music performance is the study of playing or singing at a high level, usually on one principal instrument or in one vocal category. The core of most programs is individual lessons with a specialist teacher, supported by many hours of daily practice that the institution does not directly timetable. Students work through a repertoire that grows in difficulty and breadth, and are assessed mainly through recitals, juries or exams performed before a panel.

Alongside the principal study, performance programs normally include ensemble work such as orchestra, wind band, choir, chamber music or contemporary groups, plus supporting courses in aural skills, theory and music history. The balance differs by tradition: a conservatory-style program may be almost entirely practical, while a university program may place performance next to a larger academic component and elective choices.

Performance differs from composition, conducting and music education in that its main product is interpretation of music in live or recorded form. It also differs between traditions. Classical, jazz, contemporary and folk or traditional performance have different training habits, repertoires and assessment styles, so the label alone says little. The instrument or voice type taught is often a more useful way to compare programs than the subject name.

Entry to performance programs is almost always through a live or recorded audition on the principal instrument or voice. Applicants are typically asked to prepare a set of pieces, which may need to contrast in style or period, and some programs specify required works, scales or technical studies. Brass, string, woodwind, keyboard, percussion and voice auditions each have their own conventions, and sight-reading or a short interview may be added.

Many programs also test musicianship through a theory placement, an aural test or a written paper, and academic or language requirements usually apply as well. Some institutions run a first-round recording followed by a live second round, and a few accept recordings only. Postgraduate applicants are often asked for a longer or more demanding program and may need to submit a proposed recital plan.

Requirements differ between institutions, between instruments and between countries, so there is no universal checklist. Applicants should read the official admissions page for audition repertoire, deadlines and formats. Nothing on this page guarantees admission.

Funding for performance study may include institutional scholarships awarded on audition, ensemble or section-based awards, tuition waivers, and, at graduate level, teaching or accompanying assistantships in some systems. Public grants, loans and external trusts or foundations also exist in some countries, and some are tied to nationality or residence.

Availability, amounts and eligibility vary by institution and country, and many students receive partial support or none. Check each program and funding body directly, since audition timing can affect scholarship consideration.