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A Comprehensive Guide to Studying Music Abroad​
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A Comprehensive Guide to Studying Music Abroad

  • 2024年12月28日
  • Hin-Sing Au

Image Source: Cleveland Institute of Music, USA

"Music’s mission is to guide us across the boundaries of language and geography, and on every unfamiliar stage to present the most heartfelt voice from the depths of our souls."

Introduction:

In the globalized world of music, studying abroad has become an essential path for many young musicians to broaden their horizons and elevate their performance skills. Whether heading to the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, or other countries, each region offers its unique teaching methods and artistic atmosphere, suitable for students with different musical specialties and career plans. To make this article more relatable to real experiences, I will combine my study and performance experiences from Hong Kong, the United States, and various parts of Europe to provide some insights and tips for readers interested in studying music abroad. I hope this can help you progress more smoothly in the process of preparing for or realizing your dream of studying oversea

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Table of Content

1. Clarify Your Goals and Choose Schools: Prepare by Visiting Campuses and Contacting Professors

Before applying, I usually check the school’s website or reach out to friends or alumni already studying there to get a preliminary understanding of their audition repertoire requirements, language prerequisites, and overall developmental direction. If you have the chance, try emailing or video-calling a professor whom you admire. You can ask for their advice on repertoire or technique training, and even inquire about arranging a trial lesson or short-term course to get an in-person feel for the professor’s teaching style. When I applied to music academies in the United States, some professors were more than willing to have an initial consultation, which helped me avoid discovering “incompatible musical ideals” after arriving on campus.

Harvard university campus

Schools in the United States

American music conservatories are known for their diverse and flexible curriculum design, particularly their requirement for students to take courses outside of music (Other Requirement Credits), such as humanities, sciences, social studies, or language courses. This system aims to cultivate well-rounded students, developing musicians who excel not only in artistry but also possess broader perspectives and critical thinking abilities.

During my time at the Cleveland Institute of Music, I took courses in Japanese and astronomy. While these subjects seemed unrelated to music, they provided new insights into cultural understanding and logical thinking. For instance, Japanese classes helped me better comprehend Japanese musical culture, while astronomy expanded my imagination regarding the universe and natural order, indirectly influencing my musical interpretation and creative inspiration.

Additionally, in my first year of doctoral studies at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, I took courses in music psychology, arts management, and computer programming. Music psychology delved into how music affects human emotions, memory, and behavior. This course deepened my understanding of audience psychological responses, helping me more consciously use tonal variations and emotional expression to move listeners. Arts management familiarized me with cultural industry operations and laid a foundation for potential future work in arts administration, while computer programming sparked my interest in combining technology with music, such as creating electronic music or designing digital teaching tools.

The flexibility of American music schools is also reflected in students’ ability to choose combinations of majors and minors. For example, besides majoring in piano performance or composition, you can minor in business, arts management, or other related fields, with some schools even offering double major opportunities. This is ideal for students planning to enter music education, cultural management, or creative industries. Overall, the diverse system of American music schools not only broadened my knowledge but also helped me find inspiration across different fields, further enriching my musical expression. If you’re interested in interdisciplinary learning, American music schools’ flexible system would be an excellent choice.

Schools in Germany and the UK

If you have a passion for classical music traditions and wish to immerse yourself in Europe’s rich cultural heritage and historical atmosphere, then music schools in Germany, Austria, or the United Kingdom are excellent options to consider. German and Austrian music academies are renowned for their rigorous and systematic teaching approach, particularly in performance technique, chamber music training, and repertoire interpretation. However, applications typically require a certain level of German proficiency (such as B1 or B2), so it’s advisable to prepare for language tests in advance. Additionally, while German public music schools offer the advantage of low tuition fees for budget-conscious students, competition is relatively intense and the admission process is quite stringent.

The UK is famous for prestigious institutions like the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal Northern College of Music, known for their rigorous teaching methods and emphasis on performance opportunities. British music schools typically offer abundant collaborative performance resources, such as partnerships with local orchestras or participation in various music festivals. The UK is an ideal study destination for students looking to enhance their stage experience and build professional networks.

Regardless of which country you choose, it’s recommended to carefully review the target school’s official website to understand their curriculum structure, language requirements, and audition repertoire details. Additionally, you can consult with alumni or peers who have studied at these institutions to assess whether your abilities match the school’s requirements and whether the school can support your long-term plans

2. Language and Culture: Adopt a Mindset of “Fitting In”

2.1 Use Basic Conversation to Break the Ice: Start with Common Phrases
Not everyone can take language courses in the host country before the semester begins. As I did when I first arrived, you can take the initiative to learn everyday phrases, mimic local speakers’ tones and expressions, and pay attention to how they use intonation in various settings. Simple steps like memorizing key words and short phrases for ordering in cafés or greeting roommates in the local language may seem small, but they can quickly bridge cultural gaps and strengthen your listening and speaking confidence.

2.2 Use Music as a Bridge: Exchange Language and Culture
As a musician, you already have a wonderful tool for communication: music.

  • Form a chamber ensemble or band with local classmates. During rehearsals and performances, you’ll hear their accents, reasoning, and way of expression, letting you naturally enhance your language skills.
  • If possible, do language exchanges after class: you teach them Chinese while they teach you German, French, or English. It’s relaxed yet highly effective.

2.3 Show Respect and Curiosity: A Positive Attitude Toward Cultural Differences

  • Pay attention to local customs: dining etiquette or teacher-student interaction styles. Observe how others handle these situations, and follow when you feel comfortable.
  • Avoid self-limitation: don’t shy away from socializing just because your language skills aren’t perfect initially—many locals are kind and encouraging when someone is genuinely trying to communicate.
Curious cat in the countryside, Tuscany

3. Connecting with Ideal Instructors: Trial Lessons and Masterclasses

3.1 Contact Early for a Trial Lesson: Learn the Teaching Style
If possible, reach out to the professor by email, social media, or through school staff, and ask whether a “trial lesson” or an online consultation can be arranged.

  • For piano, voice, or orchestral instruments, you usually go to the professor’s studio to play or sing a few excerpts, experiencing both their teaching style and their feedback on your potential.
  • Beforehand, decide which pieces to present. Choose music that best showcases your technique and musicality, and if you can, also prepare a weaker excerpt to get specific feedback.

3.2 Make the Most of Masterclasses: Gather Varied Instruction and Broaden Your Network
Masterclasses are a fast way to understand different teachers’ styles.

  • If you sign up as an active participant, you’ll get direct interaction; as a listener, you can still learn a lot.
  • From multiple teachers, you’ll encounter a variety of artistic viewpoints and avoid getting stuck in one interpretive path.
  • After class, networking with teachers and fellow participants might lead to valuable future connections or school info.

3.3 Begin with Online Lessons: Explore Both Technique and Culture
If you can’t be there in person, it’s possible to do one-on-one lessons online or send the professor recordings for evaluations and suggestions.

  • Some professors list “online trial lessons” on their personal websites, YouTube channels, or teaching platforms.
  • You might record your performance, get their feedback, and then submit a revised version or demonstrate improvements in a subsequent meeting.

3.4 The Teacher-Student Relationship: Nurturing Technique and Artistic Philosophy
Your primary professor usually has a significant influence on your musicianship over an extended period.

  • Don’t follow others’ opinions blindly; verify suggestions against your own artistic sense. If conflicts arise, discuss them with your teacher or get a second opinion.
  • Balance technique and musicianship. Even if you face extensive technical corrections (fingerings, tone color, pedal usage, etc.) initially, this thorough feedback often prevents bad habits and lays a strong foundation for expressive artistry.

 

4. Scholarships and Financial Planning: Multiple Application Channels

Education school cost, scholarship, student loan. Piggy bank with graduation cap

Studying music abroad can be expensive, covering not just tuition but flights, living costs, instrument maintenance, and travel for auditions. Being well-informed about different funding options can reduce your financial stress. In addition to standard scholarships or teaching assistant positions, you can investigate private foundations, company-sponsored music awards, government international cultural exchange scholarships, or diaspora/ alumni group support.

For example, tuition in German public music schools is often lower than in the United States, but strong German skills and a competitive audition process are required. Demonstrating your abilities and getting a professor’s recommendation before the official admission can boost your chances of receiving support.Below are four popular scholarship programs of particular interest to Hong Kong students:

Below are four popular scholarship programs of particular interest to Hong Kong students:

  1. Hong Kong Scholarship for Excellence Scheme (HKSES)
    • For those with permanent or right-of-abode status in Hong Kong who plan to pursue undergraduate or graduate programs at “world-renowned universities.”
    • Offers support of up to HKD 300,000 annually for tuition, with an additional HKD 200,000 for living expenses if you pass the means test.
    • In selecting candidates, they highly value academic performance, leadership potential, and commitment to Hong Kong.

2. Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund Overseas Scholarships

    • For local full-time students in Hong Kong who plan to study undergraduate or postgraduate programs abroad.
    • Awards typically cover part of tuition and living expenses, with exact amounts based on annual assessments.
    • Students must submit transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal profile.

3. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Music and Dance Fund’s Van Ritten Yung Music Fund

    • For applicants 25 or younger by August 31, 2024, who are Chinese nationals holding Hong Kong permanent residency and who have received an overseas admission letter for the 2024/25 academic year.
    • Provides scholarships for young Hong Kong musicians to study abroad, with an obligation to return and contribute to the local music scene once they complete their degree.

4. CASH Music Fund

    • For Hong Kong residents holding valid local ID, ideally 30 or under, and graduates with a bachelor’s in music from local universities.
    • Offers financial assistance up to HKD 200,000 for a one-year graduate program in composition, aiming to foster new composing talent.

5. Performances and Competitions: Mastering the Stage Is the Fastest Path to Growth

Actively performing and participating in competitions is one of the most effective ways to improve your playing. You’ll encounter diverse styles and nationalities, and learn to adapt your performance in different environments. Practical experience on stage hones your stability, your ability to handle stressful situations, and your adaptability to the unexpected. Below are some strategies for finding reputable competitions and the reasons why actively seeking them out is so important.

How to Find Internationally Recognized Competitions?

  1. Make Use of Alink-Argerich Foundation (AAF)
    • Through its official website and published guides, the AAF is an essential resource for identifying major piano and other music competitions worldwide.
    • The site lists dates, locations, repertoire requirements, age limits, judges, and registration methods, updated every week. It’s a reliable way to filter competitions by region or date and then delve deeper into previous editions, competitors, and the overall level.
  1. Track Music News and Social Media
    • International music media, associations, and social platforms often release early competition announcements.
    • Verify authenticity on recognized platforms or official websites, especially if you come across new or unfamiliar contests.
  1. Consult Your School or Teacher
    • Professors, alumni, and classmates who have participated in these competitions can share insights regarding the prestige and rigor of each event.
    • Reputable contests with high-level juries attract strong competitors and can enrich your music resume if you rank or place.

6. Why Is It So Important to Gain Competition and Performance Experience?

  1. Developing Stage Skills
    No classroom session can fully replicate the pressure of real lighting, sound, and an audience. Competitions push you to learn composure under pressure.
  2. Building an International Network
    Competitors from around the world gather at these events. You can meet peers and mentors who will inspire you with new ideas about performance and interpretation, and even offer future collaboration.
  3. Encouraging Self-Evaluation and Target-Setting
    Facing talented opponents highlights where you need to improve. Results are important, but so is knowing the areas to strengthen next.
  4. Enhancing Your Credentials
    Progressing in or winning high-level contests increases your credibility for future scholarships, music schools, and festival applications. The more stage experience you have, the more relaxed and adaptable you’ll be in new performance situations.

7. Adjust Your Mindset: Studying Abroad Is Not a Solitary Struggle

7.1 Emotional and Practical Realities: Shattering the Myth of “Ideal Study Abroad”
Embarking on international study often feels like stepping into a musical paradise. Yet, you should be prepared for possible cultural and linguistic hurdles. You might struggle to express yourself fully at first, and competition among peers may be intense.Suggested approaches:

  • Recognize from the start that study abroad is more than a tourist experience; it requires sustained effort and focus.
  • Give yourself mental space to cope with anxiety and setbacks. Journaling, calling home, or trying meditation can help reduce self-criticism.

7.2 Maintaining Social Connections: Leverage Both School and Local Communities

  • Use Campus Networks: Clubs, international student associations, faith/arts/language communities, and orientation events offer ways to make friends quickly.
  • Find the Local Chinese Community: Look online for Hong Kong/Taiwan/Chinese networks in your area. They can share housing info, cultural tips, and advice, and reduce your initial adaptation period.

7.3 Trust Yourself: Mental Strategies for the Music Study Abroad Journey

  • Embrace the adjustment phase. Worries about keeping up in class or fitting in socially are natural and should be expected.
  • Ask for help when needed. Whether for academic issues or health concerns, many resources are available through the school or classmates if you proactively reach out.

8. Preparations Before Departure: Document Reviews, Visa Applications, and Finding Housing

8.1 Document Preparation: Understand What’s Required and the Timelines

  • Music Academy Application Materials
    • Audition videos/audio: Some schools specify certain formats or repertoire. Read the requirements carefully.
    • Transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements: These should reflect your passion for music and highlight past performance or academic achievements.
  • Passport and ID: Make sure your passport is valid well beyond your intended period of stay.

8.2 Visa Application

  • U.S. Student Visa (F-1): After receiving the I-20 from your school, schedule an embassy interview and bring sufficient financial documentation and your admission letter.
  • Europe (Germany/Austria, etc.): Typically requires a long-term student visa, teaming up with your acceptance letter, proof of funds, and possibly proof of local language proficiency (e.g., B1 or B2 in German).
  • UK (Tier 4 General Student Visa): You’ll need a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and proof of funds for living expenses.
  • Start these processes at least two or three months in advance, especially during peak seasons.

8.3 Finding Housing: Key to Saving Money and Feeling at Ease

  • On-Campus Dorms
    • Many music academies or universities offer dormitories for international students, including basic furniture and shared facilities. Although not always the cheapest, it eases the transition and helps build closer ties with classmates.
  • Off-Campus Housing
    • Check the school’s international office, student bulletin boards, or local rental websites. If you have a trusted friend or alumnus in the area, consider rooming with them.
    • Watch out for scams: requests for upfront deposits without a contract are a red flag

8.4 Insurance and Health Matters

  • Medical Insurance
    • Some countries or schools require international students to purchase local health insurance. You may need third-party coverage before registration, and it’s wise to have travel insurance when first arriving or if you have connecting flights.
  • Health Checkups and Vaccines
    • Certain places (especially the U.S.) have vaccination or tuberculosis screening requirements. Missing these requirements could delay your school registration.
people hand holding a pen for working to write on a book for letter or business document

9. What You Gain from Study Abroad: Growth Beyond the Classroom

9.1 Accumulating International Perspective: A Collision of Cultures
Studying abroad’s greatest value lies not just in technical lessons, but in daily encounters with people from around the world.

  • It reveals that there’s more than one way to interpret music, and you’ll often be pleasantly surprised by peers’ new approaches.
  • In a multicultural environment, from rehearsals to competitions, you learn flexibility and broaden your worldview.

9.2 Cultivating Independence: Life Management and Self-Exploration

  • Taking Care of Daily Life: Buying groceries, cooking, handling utilities, or opening a bank account are all steps toward adult independence.
  • Time and Stress Management: Juggling coursework, rehearsals, and competitions pushes you to structure your schedule wisely.
  • Reflection and Self-Awareness: Leaving your comfort zone clarifies inner needs, strengths, and aspirations, prompting deeper questions like “Why do I play music?” and “What kind of musician do I want to become?”
Young people of multiples cultures embracing and smiling

9.3 Building Long-Term Connections: Expanding Your Musical Circle

  • Bonding with Classmates: Facing similar challenges often forges deep friendships and collaborative rapport.
  • Industry Ties: Meetings with agents, conductors, composers, or record label representatives sometimes begin with a professor’s referral or school event. Those links can later lead to more engagements and teaching opportunities.

9.4 Contributing to the Future: Becoming a More Complete Music Professional
Whether you stay abroad for further study or return to Hong Kong or elsewhere in Asia, your overseas experience equips you with broader perspectives and more resilient independence.

  • Sharing: Upon returning, share your experiences with younger students.
  • Continuing Education: Studying abroad is not your destination but the beginning of a higher-level journey. You can continue to attend masterclasses, international festivals, or consider other music fields such as arts management or audio engineering.

Conclusion: Every Step Forward Is the Beginning of a New Journey

From preparation to touchdown in a new country, from graduation or further study to each pivot point along the way, you’ll continually learn, adjust, experience challenges, and reflect. In the end, you gain something more profound than language skills or technique: personal growth. Cherish this precious journey with a passion for music and perseverance.
 
If you’re thinking about studying abroad, don’t hesitate to email professors or administrators, or try masterclasses and summer/winter programs to experience the local atmosphere firsthand. Though there may be moments of anxiety or frustration, those highs and lows will strengthen your resilience and international perspective. With luck, we’ll someday meet in a concert hall or on a stage somewhere in the world, sharing ideas and supporting one another, continuing to narrate your story through music.
 
Wishing you a wonderful musical journey ahead!
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