Programmeme name: Master of Music in Orchestral Performance

Faculty name: Faculty of Design and Performance Arts

APPLY NOW - DEADLINE: 30 JUN 2026 

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Brief description of the programme

The MA of Music in Orchestral Performance course is a specialized, 2 semesters long intensive programme for instrumentalists aiming for professional ensemble careers. The curriculum centers on mastery of orchestral repertoire, advanced instrumental technique, and comprehensive audition preparation (including mock auditions and mental coaching). It also cultivates the professionalism, chamber music skills, and collaborative leadership

necessary to secure and sustain a position in a world-class symphony orchestra. Graduates are career-ready orchestral musicians and artistic leaders.

Structure of studies: The total number of credits needed to complete the programme is 60 credits. 1 credit equals one ECTS credit, and 1 credit is defined as 25 student working hours.

Language requirements:
TOEFL 513 / IELTS 5.5 /oral examination, TOEFL IBT test score of 66 (issued in the last two years).

Certificate of any standardized international English language exam corresponding with Hungarian B2 at Master’s level issued by an accredited language centre/ academic institution.

In case the student has completed his/her previous level of studies in English, proof can be uploaded about the fact that the language of instruction was English, issued by the institution.

If the uploaded document(s) do(es) not meet the above-mentioned requirements, the University relies on an online language interview.

Academic requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in music performance relevant for the Master studies (in orchestral instruments). Transcript of records of Bachelor studies.

Specific instrumental admission requirements (for both in-person and online entrance exams) are published on the Faculty of Arts website for each instrument.

The instrumental recording requirements are available through the following link: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1L3mBDOw8z8q1054pjXZST6Z0CSUsXZKu/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101394745717550321556&rtpof=true&sd=true

In case the applicant has difficulty attending the live audition, a video recording may also be accepted, which must match the following criteria:

-             The video must show the whole body of the performer(s).

-             Piano accompaniment is required.

-             The pieces may be recorded separately; however, no editing is allowed within a movement or between movements.

-             The recordings should be uploaded either as a single video file or one video per piece, as unlisted YouTube links or cloud links, where the jury can view the videos directly in the browser without needing to download them.

Additionally, please note that there is usually a musical proficiency test as part of the entrance exam.

The Faculty will decide whether remote participation is required.

The deadline for submission of video is May 20.

Programme Educational Objectives:

PEO#1 Audition Mastery and Career Advancement: Graduates will effectively apply specialized strategic, mental, and practical skills to consistently excel in competitive professional auditions, critically assess performance standards, and successfully advance their careers within the global orchestral landscape

PEO#2 Advanced Performance Skills: Graduates will be equipped with the technical proficiency and artistry required for professional orchestral performance, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and ensemble skills.

PEO#3 Comprehensive Music Theory and Analysis, Historical and Cultural Contextualization: Graduates will foster a deep understanding of music theory, score analysis, and orchestration to enable students to interpret and perform a diverse repertoire of orchestral music effectively. Also, students will have the proficiency to contextualize orchestral works within historical, cultural, and stylistic frameworks, enhancing their interpretative decisions during performance.

PEO#4 Sustained Professionalism and Organizational Integration: Graduates will demonstrate the organizational acumen, interpersonal skills, and professional adaptability required to seamlessly integrate into the daily operations and long-term culture of a professional orchestra, resulting in a sustained and successful career marked by positive collegial relationships and adherence to institutional artistic standards.

Student Outcomes:

1. An ability to possess an in-depth, analytical knowledge and performance mastery of the standard orchestral excerpt literature for their instrument, including historical context, stylistic fidelity, and awareness of performance practice across major periods (Baroque through Contemporary).
2. An ability to successfully apply specialized mental, physical, and strategic techniques to consistently deliver competitive, high-stakes performances in mock and professional blind-audition settings, effectively managing performance anxiety and adapting to panel feedback.
3. An ability to function as artistically flexible and dependable ensemble players, demonstrating sophisticated aural skills, non-verbal communication, and the ability to integrate seamlessly with section, chamber, and full orchestral settings under various conductors.4. An ability to critically evaluate their own performance and practice strategies using objective criteria, designing and implementing effective, long-term practice routines and corrective technical work to ensure continuous professional development.
4. An ability to integrate advanced musicological and theoretical knowledge of orchestral scores, historical instruments, and composer intent to inform and justify their interpretive choices in both performance and teaching contexts.
5. An ability to demonstrate professional acumen in non-performance aspects of an orchestral career, including effective résumé and recording preparation, understanding contract negotiations, engaging in community outreach, and demonstrating leadership and governance skills typical of modern orchestral musicians.
6. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Job Opportunities:

Graduates of an Orchestral Studies MA have diverse job opportunities in the music industry. They will possess the know-how to pursue careers as professional orchestral musicians, performing with symphony orchestras, chamber orchestras, or contemporary music performing ensembles. Graduates may also work in music direction for theatre, film, or opera.

Subject matter details:

Please find here the subject list of the programme – ttr link