Music is an integral part of human culture and society, possessing the remarkable ability to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect people across borders. Studying music allows individuals to develop their artistic talents, deepen their understanding of music theory and history, and refine their performance skills.
Germany, renowned for its rich musical heritage, is one of the best places to study music for international students. The country’s strong classical music tradition and vibrant contemporary music scene offer a unique and immersive environment for aspiring musicians. German music institutions are recognized for having world-class education and training, experienced faculty members, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive artistic community.
Germany’s commitment to musical excellence, rich cultural heritage, and comprehensive music education make it an ideal destination to study music. This article will explore the five best music schools in Germany for international students.
Top Music Schools in Germany
Whether you aim to become a performer, composer, music educator, or music industry professional, these top music schools in Germany offer an ideal platform to chase your musical aspirations.
1. University of Music and Theatre Leipzig
The University of Music and Theatre Leipzig, or Hochschule für Musik und Theater “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy” Leipzig, is a young institute established in 1992 but its predecessor institutes were Germany’s oldest music conservatory founded by the renowned musician Felix Mendelssohn in 1843 and a well-established theatre school. The university has many notable alumni in its long history who influenced the international cultural scene with their contributions and achievements.
Being a top music school in Germany, the university offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in a range of specializations, including Early Music, Conducting, Piano, Composition, and many more. For those with diploma or master’s degrees, the university offers four-semester master class programs in the same subject to hone their artistic skills to the highest level. HMT Leipzig offers programs in music education, which are delivered in collaboration with the University of Leipzig. Students can opt for a double-subject degree, studying both music and music education. The university also offers a Master of Arts degree in Musicology.
2. Hanns Eisler School of Music
The Hanns Eisler School of Music Berlin was established in 1950 as the German Academy for Music (Deutsche Hochschule für Musik in German). About 500 students study at its two campuses, located in the heart of Berlin. It is a leading music school in Germany and Europe, attracting many international students. About two-thirds of the university’s student population is from abroad.
The university offers eight-semester bachelor’s and four-semester master’s programs in a range of music fields, including voice, various musical instruments, composition, and musicology. Selection of the candidates for admission may involve pre-recorded submissions and auditions.
3. University of Music and Theatre Munich
The University of Music and Theatre Munich, Hochschule für Musik und Theater München in German (HMTM), is a leading university in Germany offering more than 100 programs in music, dance, and theatre. It was established in 1846 as a private conservatory and later became a public university. Around 1,400 students from 60 countries around the world study at the university.
The university offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in many fields of music, including music education, conducting, composition, jazz, church music, and more. HMTM also offers Ph.D. equivalent programs for excellence in performance.
4. Berlin University of the Arts
Berlin University of the Arts or Universität der Künste Berlin (UdK) is one of the largest arts universities in the country. It is one of the few art institutes in the country that has the status of a full university. UdK’s School of Music has a rich history, dating back to the Royal Academy of Music established by the Violinist Joseph Joachim.
This German university offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in a range of musical specialties, including Jazz, Early Music, Conducting, and Piano. UdK also offers a Ph.D. program for those interested in doctoral research.
5. University of Music and Dance Cologne
The University of Music and Dance Cologne, or Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln in German, is one of Europe’s leading performing arts and music schools, with three campuses in Cologne, Wuppertal, and Aachen. The university’s history can be traced back to 1850 when it was established as a Conservatory of Music in Cologne. It has since diversified and expanded its offerings. Graduates from the institute have performed in Europe’s most famous orchestras and opera houses, and their talent has been recognized in international competitions.
The university offers some of the top music programs in Germany, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a wide range of musical specializations, like orchestral instruments, other unique instruments, church music, composition, voice, and musical theatre. In addition to this, the university also offers doctoral programs, culminating in a Dr. Phil. degree (German equivalent of a Ph.D.), for which students can pursue research in areas like musicology and music pedagogy.
FAQS About Studying Music in Germany
What Career Opportunities are Open to Graduates with a Music Degree?
A music degree opens up diverse career opportunities in the music industry and beyond. Graduates can pursue careers as performers, either as solo artists or as part of bands, orchestras, ensembles, or choirs. They can also work as composers or arrangers, creating original music compositions for different forms and mediums.
If they are inclined, they can become teachers, or work in music therapy. Those with technical skills can work as music producers, sound designers, or engineers in recording, mixing, and mastering music. Graduates can also pursue careers in music journalism, writing articles, reviews, critiques, and interviews for different publications.
With renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, Germany has many top music schools. When you add its rich musical heritage and vibrant musical scene to the mix, the country is a desirable destination to study music.
We hope that this article on the best music schools in Germany was helpful. Head over to our Open Courses Page to explore additional program options that are currently available for international students. Also, check out our Study in Germany Page for more information about studying in the country, including the best universities, admission tips, and scholarship opportunities!
