As the birthplace of opera, Italy’s contribution to the world of music is undeniable. From Monteverdi to Puccini, the country has produced some of the greatest music composers in history. The very air seems to carry the melodies of Verdi and the harmonies of Vivaldi, infusing an unparalleled musical aura into the country’s culture.
This fascination with music and Italian culture is also felt in the country’s music schools, which are world-renowned for their top-notch programs and highly qualified faculty. But with so many great schools to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? To help you make your choice, we highlight the five best music schools in Italy for international students in this article. Keep reading!
Top Music Schools in Italy
With so many goals to achieve, let’s now transition to the most awaited section – selecting the ideal music school. In this birthplace of opera, choosing any of these top 5 music schools can be your best bet to achieve your dreams. So, don’t stop here and learn more!
1. Conservatorio di Milano
With slogans like “Since 1807,” the Conservatorio di Milano proudly carries its rich history while it forges its legacy in its beautifully built campus in Milan. Behind its long-standing success is an amazing group of teachers. Think of Francesco Lamperti, who coached many great singers and left a big mark. There’s also Azio Corghi, a modern composer who pushed music boundaries at the institute for the new generation.
Thus, if you’re into any kind of music, this institution can be your first choice. Besides renowned faculty, the conservatory offers a wide range of programs, from classical to contemporary music. You can also choose to focus on performance, composition, or musicology and may even specialize in any musical instrument by taking its single courses.
2. Conservatorio di Musica Santa Cecilia
- Study Program
- Location: Rome, Italy | Medium of Instruction: Italian, English
Let’s go on with another 19th-century gem: the Conservatorio di Musica Santa Cecilia. With a history dating back to 1887 and a strong focus on music and performance, this institution has gained recognition as one of the leading conservatoires in the world.
Among its noteworthy music programs, students can enroll in a master’s degree in Music for Video Games, equipping them with the skills to create captivating soundscapes for interactive media. Another intriguing offering is the Master in Interpretation of Contemporary Music, leading students in the modernist era of compositions and performances.
For those seeking to specialize in a particular instrument, the conservatory also offers diplomas in various specialized instruments, allowing students to hone their craft under expert guidance.
3. Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini
- Study Program
- Location: Florence, Italy | Medium of Instruction: Italian
Named after the famous Italian composer Luigi Cherubini, the Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini is our next top Italian music school for international students. With an easy-to-apply admission process and an International Erasmus+ Program, the conservatory can be a great choice for those pursuing music.
At this conservatory, you can choose from different music programs. They offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, which means you can study music at different levels and genres, spanning from musical theatre to jazz and electronic music.
For students to not miss any opportunity or platform, the conservatory also has a beautiful concert hall called the Sala del Buonumore, with modern-day lighting and sound systems. The hall is a popular venue for concerts, recitals, and other events, and it also serves as a practice space for students.
4. Conservatorio di Musica A.Vivaldi Alessandria
Housed in a beautiful classical 18th-century building and home to not one but two grand concert halls, the Conservatorio di Musica A. Vivaldi Alessandria comes fourth among our top music schools for international students in Italy.
The conservatory offers a wide range of programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music teaching, composition, and contrabass. It also offers several extracurricular activities, such as orchestra, choir, and chamber music, to help students practice their skills.
To end, the teachers at the conservatory are active musicians and scholars who are committed to providing students with the best possible education.
5. Conservatorio di Musica Niccolò Paganini
The Conservatorio di Musica Niccolò Paganini is a leading music school in Italy that is famous for its generous scholarships and collaborations with institutions and art centers throughout the globe. Named after Niccolò Paganini, who was known for his virtuosity and his ability, the institution lives up to his name by producing quality graduates for the music profession.
For its large and diverse student body, the Conservatory offers degrees on the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and in a variety of disciplines such as musical composition, choral training, and an intriguing specialty – organologia. This distinctive focus on the study of musical instruments and their history sets the conservatory apart, offering students a unique opportunity for exploration within the field of music.
FAQs: Music Studies in Italy
What Career Opportunities are Open to Graduates with a Music Degree?
Music graduates from Italy’s prestigious music institutions develop versatile skills for a variety of careers. In addition to the technical academic skills, such as music theory, ear training, and performance, they develop strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
These skills are highly valued in the workplace and can help graduates succeed in a variety of fields. For example, music graduates can use their technical skills to work as performers, teachers, or composers. They can use their critical thinking skills to work as musicologists, music therapists, or music producers. Lastly, they can use their problem-solving and communication skills to work in arts administration, music publishing, or music journalism.
Through this selection of world-class conservatories, Italy has produced some of the greatest musicians in history. Serving as the training grounds for future composers, conductors, and teachers, the aforementioned Italian music schools for international students like Musica Luigi Cherubini and Musica Santa Cecilia serve as guardians of traditional music and the enduring legacy of the Birthplace of Opera!
We hope this article has presented you with great options for pursuing a music education in Italy. If you’re seriously considering studying abroad, you can start by checking out the Study in Italy and Available Programs for International Students.
