What you should consider beforehand
Having or developing a passion for the subject you want to study is a valuable foundation. However, having a passion for music does not automatically mean having a passion for musicology - which is why false expectations sometimes arise among first-year students.
The study of musicology deals with the reflection on music and its manifestations. As with all art and cultural studies, music is also linked to concrete cultural practices. Contrary to popular belief, however, the course is not practically oriented. Students neither learn to play an instrument nor to compose.
Musicology students learn to think about music in a structured way and to work scientifically on music. They will acquire comprehensive factual knowledge about music and its diverse history as well as develop the ability to deal critically with this knowledge in verbal and written form. The course therefore does not offer specific professional training, but lays a broad foundation for a wealth of professional opportunities (more on this in the curriculum), which largely depend on the students' own initiative. The curriculum allows options for a wide range of specializations.
Even if studying musicology does not focus on active music-making, some practical skills are essential for successful progress in the course: these include reading music (such as knowledge of different clefs or transposing instruments) as well as a trained ear and basic knowledge of composition. It is necessary for students to acquire this knowledge - if they do not already have it - through self-study at the beginning of their studies.
The University of Graz and the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz (KUG) have been offering a joint degree course in musicology since the winter semester 2006. Current information and a list of FAQs.
Sign up for the inter-university mailing list of the musicology program, which will keep you up to date on guest lectures, job advertisements, interesting news or important information about the program.
More information about the StV Musicology, contact information, social media