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    1. Studying at ZHdK
    2. Music
    3. MA Music Performance, Conducting
    More: MA Music Performance, Conducting

    Content and structure

    Course content.

    Much of the work takes place in class, with students sharpening their understanding through group analyses of works and their background, rehearsal strategies, instrument-specific knowledge, and baton techniques. All these aspects are explored on a small scale with instrumental ensembles in the classroom, then implemented in conducting sessions in larger workshops and seminar weeks involving orchestra and concert appearances with the goal of working independently.
    Playing from a score, analysis and aural training, as well as individual tuition in conducting, are the individual elements which supplement this learning process. The wide range of ZHdK courses and optional and additional subjects means students can also focus on core subjects they have chosen themselves.

    Course structure.

    The course is made up of three modules:

    Core subject

    You will benefit from a variety of learning formats in the core subject. In the individual tuition, you will enjoy one-on-one coaching, sharpen your self-perception as a conductor and receive supervision on your journey towards musical and professional independence. Classes will include both analytical and practical study and practical teaching with ensembles put together for specific projects. Project weeks and workshops complete the offering. 

    Extension

    You will receive lessons in piano/playing from a score, aural training and analysis, and attend concerts and rehearsals with the class.

    Individual profile

    Under the supervision of your core subject teacher, you will compile your individual profile, with a minor subject, assistance assignments and your Master’s project at the start of your studies.

    Module plan:

    • Module plan

    Skills acquired in the course.

    • Expertly reproduce a representative repertoire from a wide range of musical styles. 
    • Independent, critical reflection on music.
    • In-depth knowledge of music history, expert application of music theoretical concepts, terminologies and methods. 
    • Develop artistic concepts independently, elaborate on them in detail and implement them publicly.
    • Handle a range of performance situations under different production conditions with ease.
    • Design programmes for a variety of event formats independently and implement them in an original manner.
    • Apply comprehensive knowledge of practice, memorization, rehearsal and working techniques in a targeted manner when dealing with musical material. 
    • Apply basic knowledge of conceptual project work and music-related research methods in professional practice.
    • Continually promote and critically question your own artistic development, thanks to your capacity for differentiated self-perception and reflection.
    • Foster social interactions and develop mediative skills. 
    • Act flexibly in a heterogeneous, multicultural environment.

    Admissions requirements.

    Applicants are expected to have an advanced knowledge of their Major and 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
    • A good command of German and/or English 

    Benefits of studying at ZHdK.

    Studying at ZHdK offers a wealth of unique benefits:

    • No specific piano skills are required. You will practise with ensembles that have been put together with specific projects in mind.
    • You will enjoy class tuition with conducting students from all degree programmes, which promotes the individual development and profile of the participants.
    • You will be encouraged in challenging projects with the orchestral and ensemble formations of ZHdK.
    • In the Performance Master’s. you can look forward to a lively degree programme with approx. 120 musicians. 
    • You will enjoy an inspirational environment with colleagues and partners from around the world for discussion and collaboration purposes in a variety of ensembles and orchestras.
    • You will benefit from outstanding infrastructure, live electronics and multimedia, audio productions with in-house sound engineers, historical instrument collections and an excellent library.
    • You will study at the Toni Campus – a public, cultural and university campus for all artistic disciplines that is unparalleled in its dimensions anywhere in Europe.
    • You will meet students from other artistic disciplines on a daily basis, make contacts and enjoy stimulating collaboration. 
    • You will have opportunities to undertake exchange semesters and various possibilities to explore other cultures thanks to ZHdK Music’s international network. 
    • You will study in a musically exciting city with renowned international orchestras and opportunities for work experience placements. 
    • You will gain extensive practical experience and have many opportunities to perform thanks to the diverse relationships with the regional cultural scene and its event organizations.