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
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News
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Conservatorium events
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Masters & Apprentices: the music of Kris Davis
Tuesday 6 October 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pmThe Jazz & Improvisation department celebrate the music of Canadian jazz pianist and composer, Kris Davis. This special project large ensemble features J&I third-year and Honours students alongside their director Andrea Keller. Previous directors have included Melissa Aldana (Chile/US... -
Composition Showcase: did you ever hear me?
Wednesday 7 October 2026 - All dayThe Composition 6 cohort presents: did you ever hear me? A showcase of new works exploring the inward and outward connections to people, music, and the stage. Come celebrate the premiere of six newly written and commissioned works in Hanson Dyer Hall as our composers - Darby Lee, Riley Hogan, Oli... -
Highlights
Wednesday 7 October 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pmThe Melbourne Conservatorium of Music Concert Band presents its final concert of the year, Highlights, an evening celebrating the individual sections, musicians and moments that come together to create the sound of the wind band. The program moves from percussion and woodwind to brass, soloist an...