Why study at a conservatoire?

Step 1: Choosing courses

Conservatoire education is suitable for any talented musician wishing to develop their performing, conducting or composing to a professional standard. Offering a high percentage of practical training, combined with academic study and professional development, conservatoires provide the most holistic training for those planning a career in the creative arts. Individual tuition forms the major component of most courses, and conservatoire students can expect to enjoy a vibrant, creative atmosphere in which to develop their unique artistic and academic potential

Conservatoire students have the opportunity to conduct, perform or have their music performed on a regular basis, both informally and in public. All conservatoires maintain high-calibre performing ensembles, allowing students to participate in orchestras, bands, jazz and world music ensembles, choirs, operas, musical theatre productions and many other groups. Members of staff, international students and visiting artists all help to encourage a rich variety of musical influences and ideas. Study in a conservatoire environment enables excellent networking and developmental opportunities for all musicians regardless of their specialism or musical direction.

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UK conservatoires

The UK is well-served by conservatoires, most of which are members of Conservatoires UK (CUK), the network of British music colleges. Together, UK conservatoires cover a wide range of musical disciplines drawn from all corners of the professional music industry, including solo orchestral and chamber music instruments; piano and other keyboard instruments; vocal studies; jazz; early music; music technology; traditional music; composition; conducting; community music and popular music.

Emphasis is placed on first study provision within the context of validated degree courses at university level: three or four-year undergraduate courses (BA or BMus) and one- or two-year postgraduate courses (MMus, PgDip etc), which fit within the developing framework of studies established by the European Bologna Process. Some conservatoires also offer research degrees, which are underpinned by the research interests of the institutions' own performing and academic staff. As research applications lie outside the scope of CUKAS, please visit the conservatoires' websites for further information.

Professional development

In order to provide a smooth transition into working life, UK conservatoires maintain very close links with the music industry and professions. Training programmes with professional organisations provide good examples of the kinds of practical links which have been developed across the spectrum of musical activity within conservatoires. Conservatoires also maintain close relationships with education departments, schools and music services throughout the country. These partnerships are instrumental in helping to widen access to conservatoire education.

In addition, all UK music conservatoires run lively junior departments for students of school age. These departments make a significant contribution to the training of our most talented young musicians and provide important preparation for senior conservatoire study.