This specialist coursework degree prepares graduates in Western classical and contemporary music as performer-teachers. Our graduates work as instrumental or vocal instructors in schools, studios, community programs, and in private provider and further education settings.
Performance Teaching at the Conservatorium
On this course you will choose between two specialisations:
- The Instrumental Specialisation prepares you for school-based instrumental/vocal teaching. It includes three professional placements and a specific focus on conducting and orchestration.
- The Studio Specialisation prepares you for private studio-based instrumental/vocal teaching. It includes two professional placements and a focus on instrumental pedagogy.
We offer advanced music performance tuition, second instrument studies and ensemble participation alongside the pedagogy of performance teaching. Professional practice takes place in various settings, including community organisations, schools, studios and Suzuki classes. Elective subjects are offered in practical, theoretical and research areas.
Completing the Instrumental Specialisation enables you to obtain advanced standing with a range of education providers, leading to Victorian Institute of Teaching registration after an additional period of study.
This course also offers a pathway into the PhD after completing the Professional Research Project elective.
Visit the University of Melbourne course site to find out more on graduate courses
Our people
Want to know more?
Get information on the courses you’re interested in, or ask our team a question.
News
The art and science of teaching music online: Dr Carol Johnson at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music
Meet Dr Brad Merrick, Senior Lecturer in Music (Performance Teaching) at the Melbourne Conservatorium
Meet Hannes Lackmann, Master of Music (Performance Teaching) graduate, University of Melbourne
Conservatorium events
-
Lorca’s Musics and Echoes of the Spanish Civil War
Friday 17 July 2026 - All dayOn the 90th anniversary of the start of the Spanish Civil War, staff and students of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, along with international guests, join in offering a concert and launch of the new book Music, Propaganda and the Spanish Civil War (edited by Michael Christoforidis and Dieg... -
Master of Music (Orchestral Performance) Showcase Concert 2026
Wednesday 29 July 2026 7:30pm - 9:15pmJoin our Master of Music (Orchestral Performance) students in their annual showcase concert. You will hear the entire cohort perform alongside elite musicians from our city’s professional orchestras. The concert will be introduced by members of the ensemble and directed by Richard Davis and Tim B... -
Classical Voice Mega Day 2026
Sunday 2 August 2026 9:30am - 6:00pmWe are inviting high school students and singing teachers with an interest in classical voice to join us for a celebration of all things singing with Conservatorium staff, students and alumni at a free Classical Voice Mega Day. Participants will engage in workshops, masterclasses and rehearsals, ...