Course content and structure

Course content.

The focus is on the development of an independent artistic excellence. To this end, a versatile repertoire – both as a soloist and in an ensemble – is developed and explored in a variety of performance formats. In addition, you can expect lectures, seminars and exercises in theory, analysis and music history, improvisation, physiology and bodywork. International cooperation and projects as well as the possibility of a semester abroad broaden your horizons and perspectives. The bachelor’s degree programme is followed by a specialized master’s degree programme that qualifies students for a profession.

Course structure.

Three module areas await you:

Core subject
In the core subject you can expect various learning areas. In private lessons you will enjoy individual coaching, sharpen your self-perception as a conductor and receive comprehensive basic training in orchestral and ensemble conducting. In the class, you will have analytical and practical discussions on the one hand, and practical lessons with ensembles put together on a project basis on the other. Project weeks and workshops round off the programme.

Context
You will take lessons in ear training, composition, analysis, music history, theory, a scientific proseminar, study days and attend concerts and rehearsals with the class.

Extended profile
Z-modules, open courses, electives complete the programme, which is concluded with a two-part Bachelor project.
 

Module plan:

Skills acquired in the course.

  • A representative repertoire from a wide range of musical styles
  • Reflect on music independently and critically
  • In-depth knowledge of music history, expert application of music-theoretical concepts, terminology and methods
  • Independently develop and precisely elaborate artistic concepts
  • Deal with various performance situations under diverse production conditions
  • Apply comprehensive knowledge of practising, memorising, rehearsing and working techniques specifically in dealing with musical material
  • Apply basic knowledge of conceptual project work and music-related research methods in a transfer context
  • Constantly promote and critically question one's own artistic development thanks to differentiated self-awareness and self-reflection
  • To cultivate social exchange empathically and actively
  • Act flexibly in a heterogeneous and multicultural environment

Admissions requirements.

Participants are expected to have an advanced knowledge of their major, considerable artistic potential, demonstrate personal commitment, and want to make music their profession. Further requirements:

  • Ability to recognize and describe musical structures
  • Independence and personal responsibility
  • Ability to reflect and self-assess
  • Communication and social skills
  • Good knowledge of German

Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

Studying at ZHdK offers a wealth of unique benefits:

  • You have access to the Toni Campus: a public, cultural and university campus for all artistic disciplines that is unparalleled in its dimensions anywhere in Europe.
  • You benefit from possible collaboration with students from other artistic disciplines. 
  • You have the opportunity to undertake exchange semesters and many possibilities to explore other cultures thanks to ZHdK Music’s extensive international network. 
  • The self-designed graduation projects motivate you to organize your work independently. 
  • You gain extensive practical experience and have many opportunities to perform thanks to the diverse relationships with the regional cultural scene and its event organizations.