Author: Erika Basso
The best music schools in Italy, both conservatories and private schools, offer a complete training course for aspiring musicians, both professionals and enthusiasts. Among the most prestigious conservatories are those of Milan, Rome, Turin and Naples, while private schools such as the Accademia Musicale Artemusica and the JAM Academy offer specialized courses.
In addition to the lovers of cuisine, Italy has also won the fans of music. The country is a favorite destination for tourists travelling for musical interests, leaving behind Germany, Austria, France and the UK.
Why Study Music in Italy?
Studying music in Italy offers many benefits, including the development of emotional intelligence, creativity and sociability. In addition, music can help reduce stress and increase self-confidence. Italy, with its rich musical tradition, also offers a wide range of opportunities for study, from school to conservatory, as highlighted onSchool of Art.
Top Music Schools in Italy:
- Conservatorio di Musica Santa Cecilia, Rome
The historical and cultural roots of the Conservatory of Music “S. Cecilia” in Rome are identified in those of the ancient Vertuosa Compagnia de’ Musici then Congregation of’ Musicians of Rome under the invocation of S.Cecilia (1565), became Academy, first papal then regia, and finally defined as the National Academy of Santa Cecilia.
The Congregation established itself as the most important institution for the training of Roman musicians. Thanks to various papal concessions, in order to practice the profession of maestro di cappella in the Pontifical State it was necessary to pass an examination at the Congregation and it was forbidden to perform music not approved by the Congregation itself.
- Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi, Milan
The Milan Conservatory, is one of the most prestigious institutions for the study of music, nationally and internationally.
More than 1700 students today, about 250 teachers, 150 study paths between I level and II level, from ancient music to pop-rock, and even masters of I and II level, master classes and seminars with internationally renowned teachers, scholarships and the Conservatory Prize, A real competition in which the best students compare each year.
- Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini, Florence
Today the Cherubini Conservatory, the only Conservatory operating in the Tuscany Region, attracts an international student population from Europe, North and South America, Asia and Africa. The institution, through its ERASMUS Office, has concluded bilateral agreements with universities and music institutions throughout Europe.
Agreements are now in place with: Antwerp, Berlin, Brasov, Brussels, Budapest, Cologne, Dijon, Freiburg, Graz, Hanover, Leipzig, Manchester, Seville, Stockholm, Trossingen, Turku, Vienna, Zurich, which have enabled exchanges of students and teachers under the ERASMUS Programme.
Particularly important is the library of the conservatory with the Basevi collection, composed of bibliographical material from various periods.
The Library is joined by the Museum of musical instruments from the Medici Collection, which was given to Bartolomeo Cristofori, the first manufacturer of pianos. The museum is made up of valuable bow instruments (Stradivarius, Amati, etc.), as well as keyboard and wind instruments.
- Conservatorio di Musica Giuseppe Martucci, Salerno
The State Conservatory of Music “Giuseppe Martucci” in Salerno was founded as a musical school during the Bourbon reign, precisely in 1819.
Offers many opportunities for Erasmus, like Erasmus mobility for study and traineeship is open to all students enrolled in the three-year academic diploma courses of first and second level. Mobility must be completed within one year of the date on which the diploma is awarded. The student call is published each academic year in December, expiring at the end of January, for departures normally scheduled for the following month of September. Students wishing to undertake traineeship mobility after graduation must apply during the last year of attendance, before the final examination.
- Conservatorio di Musica Benedetto Marcello, Venice
The Venice Conservatory is one of the richest in history. It is located in the monumental Palazzo Pisani, the largest patrician palace in Venice, which is located in the heart of the city, not far from Piazza San Marco. There are numerous spaces for lessons and study, with special rooms for orchestral and choral exercises.
The library has about 50,000 volumes, with substantial historical holdings. Among the historical relics kept in the Music Museum, some objects donated by Richard Wagner stand out. Among the music schools present there is that electronic music, founded by Giuseppe Sinopoli. Along side the traditional disciplines, there is a wide range of courses in early music.
The Benedetto Marcello maintains a tradition of rigor, discipline and selectivity that has always been at the origin of its prestige.
Exploring the Italian Conservatories: A Gateway to Musical Excellence
Italy, home of opera and pillar of the western musical tradition, offers a unique and immersive experience for budding musicians. Its conservatories – renowned institutions dedicated to musical education – attract students from all over the world in search of rigorous preparation and artistic inspiration. From classical repertoire to jazz music, from contemporary composition to opera, Italian music schools blend tradition and innovation like few other institutions in the world.
Courses and specializations offered
Italian conservatories are distinguished by the wide variety of educational paths, designed to satisfy every type of musical interest. Students may specialise in classical music, opera singing, jazz, contemporary music and musical composition. The courses are generally structured on two levels: the Triennio (first level degree) and the Biennio (second level degree), in line with the Bologna Process.
Many institutions also offer short courses, such as masterclasses, workshops and summer courses, often taught by internationally renowned musicians. Whether you dream of playing in a baroque ensemble or composing experimental electronic music, the Italian conservatories propose tailor-made routes with great attention to performance and theory.
Admission requirements for conservatories in Italy
Admission to Italian conservatories is selective and talent-based. The central element of the application is the audition, during which candidates must perform selected pieces and demonstrate technical skills, musicality and performance ability. Instrumentalists, singers and composers must prepare themselves with great care, as the commissions are composed of experienced professionals.
In addition to the audition, you must meet certain academic requirements. For three-year courses a high school diploma is required, whereas for two-year courses a relevant bachelor’s degree is required. Knowledge of the language is also important, because although some courses are available in English, a basic knowledge of Italian is often required, especially for those who study singing and operatic repertoire.
Costs for studying music in Italy
Studying music in Italy is relatively affordable compared to other western countries. Tuition fees for international students generally vary between €1,000 and €4,000 per year, depending on the institution and study programme. There are also a number of grants available, both from the state and individual conservators, based on merit or income.
The cost of living, which varies from city to city, should also be taken into account. Cities like Milan and Rome have higher expenses, with an average monthly cost of between 800 and 1,200 euro, while smaller cities are cheaper. Shared accommodation, university residences and student benefits can help to contain costs.
Career Prospects After the Conservatory
A degree from an Italian conservatory opens the door to numerous professional opportunities. Italy is home to a vibrant music scene, with legendary opera houses such as La Scala in Milan and the Teatro dell’Opera in Rome, as well as renowned orchestras and prestigious music festivals, offering valuable opportunities for performance and networking.
Many conservatories have strong ties to the music world, facilitating internships and collaborations. Graduates can pursue careers as soloists, orchestras, composers, music teachers or even music therapists. In addition, the excellence and prestige of Italian musical education constitute a competitive advantage even at an international level.
Tips for studying music in Italy
Preparation is crucial. It is advisable to start well in advance, preparing for auditions with the support of qualified teachers and seeking feedback from professionals in the field. Taking part in summer courses or short programmes can offer a first experience of the Italian music education system.
To live the experience at its best, it is important to immerse yourself in Italian culture. Opera, art, architecture and cuisine enrich the understanding of the artistic context from which Italian music is born. Learning the Italian language, even only at a basic level, allows you to integrate more easily into everyday life and the cultural fabric of the country.
Conclusion
Studying music in Italy is much more than an academic journey: it is a cultural journey. With its high-level education, secular musical tradition and a dynamic artistic environment, Italy is one of the most fascinating and stimulating destinations for those who want to perfect their musical talent. For passionate musicians, a conservatory experience is both a challenge and a privilege.