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COMPOSITION PEDAGOGY
Study description
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As the first institution in Europe, the VMI introduced its own degree program in composition pedagogy back in 2010, which is now also offered at various other universities and colleges. Based on the long-established degree program in instrumental and vocal pedagogy (IGP), a course of study was developed that combines artistic-compositional aspects with pedagogical-didactic competencies. After a minimum of 8 semesters, the program leads to a state and internationally recognized composition pedagogue with a wide range of activities in research, teaching and practice. The degree is completed with a state and internationally recognized teaching qualification, which qualifies the student to teach at various educational institutions and to pursue further master's studies.
​Study profile
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The focus of the program lies in the artistic-pedagogical area and offers a highly qualified education that qualifies students for professional work as composition teachers at music conservatories, universities, colleges and other educational institutions. In addition to individual private lessons in composition and the integration into an internationally oriented community of musicians, which takes place within a specially established composer ensemble, various practical, theoretical and pedagogical courses are part of the curriculum. The acquisition of practical experience in practice and teaching or composing and teaching, extend this study to a comprehensive and practice-oriented education at the highest level.
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Study focus
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Creating own compositions for different instrumentations;
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Learning basic and advanced composition and arrangement rules;
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Examination of compositional technique, voice leading and arrangement techniques;
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Acquisition of general musical as well as music-theoretical-scientific knowledge;
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Study of melodic, harmonic and rhythmic structures;
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Training of the musical ear and study of acoustics;
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Study of media law and management;
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Development of business strategies and marketing opportunities;
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Scientific work with a special focus on composition;
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Work with computer-aided composition techniques and multimedia;
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Examination of new media and film music;
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Acquisition of knowledge in composition, counterpoint and orchestration;
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Study of studio and recording techniques and microphoning;
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Acquisition of compositional and artistic skills on the piano;
Study Details
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Start: February and September
Duration of study: 8 semesters
Credits: 256 ECTS
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Prerequisites: Previous practical and theoretical knowledge, as well as an online registration for the entrance examination (audition). Persons from non-EU countries need a valid residence permit (student visa) at the beginning of their studies, which can be applied for after successful completion of the entrance examination.
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Prior studies: Courses or years of study previously completed at other educational institutions may be credited toward the degree program and shorten the duration of the study accordingly.
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Teachers: Training is provided by a professional team of internationally active musicians, composers, and music educators, as well as experts from the music industry, creative industries, studio technology, and musicology.
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Curriculum: Study plan / Completion plan
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Semester abroad: Being awarded the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (ECHE) by the European Union enables students of the VMI to study at a partner University of the VMI within their education with financial support for the duration of 3-12 months. In addition, funded internships abroad can be completed at various European institutions and companies in the international music industry.
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Degree: The program ends with a nationally and internationally recognized degree. According to the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research, the certificates and diplomas issued by the VMI are equivalent to those of state Universities and Colleges, are comparable to a Bachelor's degree and therefore entitle the holder to pursue further master's studies*.
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Follow-up studies: Within the framework of a cooperation agreement with the ICMP Institute of Contemporary Music Performance, a London-based partner University of the VMI, there is the possibility of obtaining the academic degrees of Bachelor or Master through a two-semester period of study at the ICMP, while at the same time gaining valuable experience in the musical metropolis of London.
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Tuition fees:
€ 120 one-time enrollment fee
€ 450 monthly tuition fee
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Details on tuition and scholarships
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*Further studies at other educational institutions are subject to the availability of free study places as well as the admission requirements of the respective university or college, over which VMI naturally has no influence, but can provide assistance with applications, especially to partner universities and partner colleges.
Online registration
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Online registrations for the entrance examination are basically possible at any time, free of charge and without obligation. They are used to determine prior practical-theoretical knowledge and whether this is sufficient to be accepted into the desired course of study (otherwise, alternative training options may be suggested). The entrance examinations usually take place on the following dates:
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For the winter semester (start of studies in September): May/June*
For the summer semester (start of studies in February): November/December*
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Details on the entrance examination
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*Alternatively, other dates may be assigned.
Supporting industry partners:
