University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This practice‑based master’s combines concentrated individual tuition with performance, research and contextual studies. Core elements typically include regular one‑to‑one applied lessons, a major public recital (or equivalent creative outcome), and a research project or portfolio that investigates an aspect of performance practice, interpretation or pedagogy.

• Applied performance lessons: weekly private tuition focused on repertoire, technique and artistic development.
• Major recital or creative project: preparation and presentation of a public programme demonstrating advanced artistic outcomes.
• Performance practice and interpretation: historical and stylistic approaches relevant to the student’s repertoire.
• Ensemble and chamber music: chamber coaching and participation in ensembles to develop collaborative musicianship.
• Pedagogy and professional skills: approaches to teaching, audition technique, career development and industry practice.
• Research methods in music: training in practical research methodologies, preparing students for a thesis or practice‑as‑research project.
• Electives: options such as contemporary performance, composition for performers, digital media for musicians, or specialised repertoire studies.

The programme is delivered through a mix of one‑to‑one lessons, seminars, masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals and public performance opportunities. Full‑time study is typically completed in one to two years, with part‑time options available.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: a recognised bachelor’s degree in music or equivalent professional experience. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree plus relevant professional performance experience or an honours degree in music are commonly eligible.
• Performance audition: a live or recorded audition demonstrating the required technical command, artistic maturity and suitable repertoire for postgraduate study.
• Supporting documents: curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a statement of intent outlining study goals, and references (usually academic or professional).
• Research preparation: for students proposing a research component, a brief research proposal or description of the intended practice‑led project may be requested.
• English language: evidence of English proficiency for international applicants in line with University of Adelaide requirements (tests such as IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent accepted).

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of professional pathways in music. The emphasis on high‑level performance, pedagogy and research equips alumni to pursue careers as soloists, ensemble players, orchestral musicians, accompanists and répétiteurs, as well as music educators in schools, conservatoires and universities.

• Professional performer (solo and chamber)
• Orchestral or ensemble musician
• Instrumental/vocal teacher and pedagogue at tertiary or specialist schools
• Collaborative pianist, répétiteur or coach
• Arts administrator, programmer or freelance project leader
• Further research: pathway to doctoral study (PhD or DMA) in performance, performance practice or musicology

Why study at University of Adelaide

The programme is offered through the Elder Conservatorium of Music, one of Australia’s long‑established conservatoire environments embedded within a research university. Students benefit from specialist staff who are active performers and researchers, regular masterclasses, and a strong schedule of public concerts and recital opportunities.

The Conservatorium’s facilities support advanced practice and research, including dedicated practice rooms, performance spaces and recording resources. Students also gain access to local professional networks and performance platforms, collaboration with peers across composition and musicology, and supervision from academics experienced in practice‑led research.

Overall, the Master of Music Performance Studies offers an intensive, career‑focused environment for musicians seeking to advance their artistry, teaching profile and research capability within a conservatorium‑in‑university setting.