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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Conservatorium events
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Jazz and Improvisation Winter Camp 2026
29 June 2026 - 3 July 2026This camp is booked out. Current ticketholders may withdraw and request refunds before 11.59PM on Sunday 14 June. Students on the waitlist will be contacted on Monday 15 June to confirm whether they have been offered a place. We are inviting high school aged instrumentalists and vocal... -
Classical Voice Mega Day 2026
Sunday 2 August 2026 9:30am - 6:00pmWe are inviting singers 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, meet with lik... -
Southbank Series: In Full Flight
Saturday 5 September 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pmThe second concert in the Southbank Series draws together four composers across three centuries, each with a distinct voice. Program Igor Stravinsky Danses Concertantes Carl Nielsen Flute ConcertoLisa-Maree Amos, Section Principal Flute Paul Stanhope ApolloLudwig van Beethoven Sympho...