FAQs
How do I apply for undergraduate programs and what are the application dates for entry in 2014?
Applications for undergraduate programs are made through VTAC (www.vtac.edu.au). Your application to audition is included in the VTAC application process. Applications for Semester 1, 2014 entry close on Friday 27th of September, 2013.
Auditions will normally be held between late November and early December 2013.
Recorded auditions must be received no later than 30 November 2013.
What are the requirements for entry into the Bachelor of Music?
Admission to the Bachelor of Music is based upon your audition, academic results and musicianship test. International students will also need to meet the University's English language requirements.
Please refer to BMus applications for further information.
Do I need to do AMEB exams to be considered for entry?
No. You do not need to have taken these examinations to be considered for entry - AMEB/ABRSM/ANZCA/Trinity/etc grades are simply used as an indication of the repertoire standard that would make for a competitive audition.
Can I study Contemporary Music Performance (Improvisation) at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music?
No. Students wishing to specialise in Contemporary Music should apply for the Bachelor of Fine Arts (Contemporary Music Performance).
How long does the audition go for and what do I have to play?
Your audition program should be no longer than twenty minutes and the audition itself will run for no longer than 15 minutes. The audition panel will not hear the entire program and will make its own selection from the works prepared.
Applicants for the Bachelor of Music should prepare three pieces demonstrating their skill on the instrument they wish to study. The pieces should be of contrasting styles and periods and a sample program might include works from the Baroque, Romantic and 20th century repertoires. Percussionists have specific audition requirements, which will be advised ahead of the audition. Applicants may also be asked to demonstrate some technical work (scales, arpeggios, etc).
Do I need an accompanist for my audition?
It is strongly recommended that you audition with an accompanist. If you wish to use an accompanist for your audition you will need to engage this person yourself.
What instruments can I study at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music?
The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music offers tuition on the following instruments:
- Bassoon
- Clarinet
- Classical Guitar
- Double Bass
- Electric Guitar/Bass
- Flute
- French Horn
- Harp
- Harpsichord
- Oboe
- Orchestral Percussion
- Piano
- Pipe Organ
- Recorder
- Saxophone
- Trombone
- Trumpet
- Tuba
- Viola
- Viola da Gamba
- Violin
- Violoncello
- Voice
Other instruments may be taught by arrangement with the Director.
Can I study a second instrument?
Yes, but usually only after first year. Applications for second study are considered individually and offers are made based on ability and instrument requested. Certain instruments are encouraged due to requirements for the orchestra and early music ensembles. Applications usually exceed the quota.
Can I take private instrumental lessons at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music if I am not enrolled in the Conservatorium?
We do not take part in any private tuition arrangements for our teaching staff. You may like to contact the Victorian Music Teachers Association (VMTA) on +61 3 9415 1314 for a directory of music teachers throughout Victoria.
Alternatively, you may contact our Artists Booking Agency on +61 3 9685 9080 to arrange lessons with advanced students.
What is the Diploma of Music (Practical) and how do I enrol?
The Diploma in Music (Practical) is studied concurrently with a new generation undergraduate degree - Arts, Science, Commerce, Biomedicine or Environments - and provides University of Melbourne students the opportunity to engage in one-to-one instrumental and vocal tuition. The Diploma has been specially structured over a 3-year time frame to allow for concurrent completion of both Bachelor and Diploma courses.
You can only apply to the DipMus after you gain a place in your main degree at the University of Melbourne. You must apply directly to the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music before the 31st January of each year. Auditions are held prior to Orientation Week.
I’m not a Bachelor of Music student. Can I take music subjects?
Yes! The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music offers a wide variety of Breadth subjects to students enrolled in Melbourne curriculum degrees, catering for all levels of musical background, from the complete beginner to the experienced musician. Subjects are available across a wide range of musical disciplines such as ensemble performance, introductory music studies, music language and the history and social context of music. You can find more information on taking Music as Breadth here.
Students enrolled in Melbourne Model degrees can also consider auditioning for the Diploma in Music (Practical).
