The Music University of Vienna, with nearly 3,000 students, is the largest music school in the world. It was established in 1817, at first with only two singing classes, and added instrument classes later. The Austrian government took over the school in 1909 and changed its name to K.K. Akademie for Musik und darstellende Kunst. Its present name has been used since 1970.
The school is divided into nine departments:
Department of Composition, Conducting, Opera Accompaniment Training, and Chorus Conducting
Department of Keyboard Music
Department of Stringed Instruments
Department of Wind and Percussion
Department of Music Education
Department of Church Music
Department of Vocal Music and Opera
Department of Drama Acting and Directing
Department of Film and Television
Those who wish to take part in the entrance examination should be between the ages of fifteen and 25. Candidates under fifteen who pass the examination must first enroll in preliminary classes until reaching the age of fifteen, at which time they may become regular students. The school does not permit people over 25 to enroll, since it considers them to be beyond the age suitable for music instruction.
The entrance examination is held by professors from various departments. Decisions are made anonymously with various professors either approving or denying each candidate's entrance. An applicant's age is one of the factors taken into consideration. A higher standard is demanded from older applicants. Most students from the R.O.C. are considered qualified, and therefore do not have to begin studying from the lowest level.
[Picture Caption]
(Above) Most music classes in Vienna are taught one-on-one. In this way students benefit greatly in their ability to expound music. (Below) Music University of Vienna.
Musical sounds fill the "Music Capital."
Music University of Vienna.
Musical sounds fill the "Music Capital.".