Your input will help us improve your experience.You can close this popup to continue using the website or choose an option below to register in or log in.
The Conservatorium van Amsterdam (CvA) provides a wide range of specializations for nearly every conceivable instrumental and vocal principal subject in traditional Western classical music, early music and contemporary music, or a combination of these. The CvA’s leading Composition Department also trains independent, innovative musicians who have mastered the technique of giving voice to their artistic ideas, which will allow them to secure a place for themselves in the international music world. Conductors studying at the CvA can focus on symphonic, choral or wind and fanfare band conducting. The CvA also offers a degree programme for those looking to specialize in music theory. The course offers students the opportunity and support to prepare themselves as effectively as possible and in a context of international competition to enter a diversified labour market and/or a tailored specialist master’s programme. Each principal subject cluster (strings, keyboard instruments, brass and so forth) organizes special projects and masterclasses. The concept of teamteaching has also been adopted in respect of a growing number of principal subjects. In addition, students are involved from the first year of the bachelor’s programme in a chamber music programme and receive coaching either from their own teacher or from other principal study teachers, supplemented on occasion by music theory and music history specialists. Participation in orchestral and ensemble projects offers students numerous opportunities to gain the hands-on experience they need. In addition to the symphony orchestra, there are special wind, string and percussion ensembles, the Sweelinck Baroque Orchestra and the Score Collective for contemporary and the very latest music. The repertoire orchestra rehearses a new repertoire piece every three weeks from September to April. Two orchestral projects are also held during the year. Conductors include both renowned guests and CvA teachers.
Students may choose from two profiles starting in their third year of study: - the standard All-round Performer Profile, or - the Performer–Educator Profile, placing special emphasis on the music pedagogy and education skills which today’s performers need.
Both these profiles aim to allow the individual student the greatest scope possible for individual expression and diversity. Using their third and fourth year’s ‘individual credits’ electives, students can also choose to further explore historical performance, chamber music, contemporary music, jazz or non-Western music. A system of electives allows students to take music theory subjects that relate even more closely to their principal study. Naturally, the entire course is well grounded in a solid theory and music history programme starting in the first academic year. Without a knowledge of theory and historical context, it is difficult to make informed, appropriate artistic and stylistic performance practice choices. A foundation is also laid in the bachelor’s phase for future work as a teacher, with a central focus on securing a position as an artistic entrepreneur in the future. Finally, the curriculum places a growing emphasis on healthy musicianship.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
BMus
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
The Conservatorium van Amsterdam (CvA) provides a wide range of specializations for nearly every conceivable instrumental and vocal principal subject in traditional Western classical music, early music and contemporary music, or a combination of these. The CvA’s leading Composition Department also trains independent, innovative musicians who have mastered the technique of giving voice to their artistic ideas, which will allow them to secure a place for themselves in the international music world. Conductors studying at the CvA can focus on symphonic, choral or wind and fanfare band conducting. The CvA also offers a degree programme for those looking to specialize in music theory. The course offers students the opportunity and support to prepare themselves as effectively as possible and in a context of international competition to enter a diversified labour market and/or a tailored specialist master’s programme. Each principal subject cluster (strings, keyboard instruments, brass and so forth) organizes special projects and masterclasses. The concept of teamteaching has also been adopted in respect of a growing number of principal subjects. In addition, students are involved from the first year of the bachelor’s programme in a chamber music programme and receive coaching either from their own teacher or from other principal study teachers, supplemented on occasion by music theory and music history specialists. Participation in orchestral and ensemble projects offers students numerous opportunities to gain the hands-on experience they need. In addition to the symphony orchestra, there are special wind, string and percussion ensembles, the Sweelinck Baroque Orchestra and the Score Collective for contemporary and the very latest music. The repertoire orchestra rehearses a new repertoire piece every three weeks from September to April. Two orchestral projects are also held during the year. Conductors include both renowned guests and CvA teachers.
Students may choose from two profiles starting in their third year of study: - the standard All-round Performer Profile, or - the Performer–Educator Profile, placing special emphasis on the music pedagogy and education skills which today’s performers need.
Both these profiles aim to allow the individual student the greatest scope possible for individual expression and diversity. Using their third and fourth year’s ‘individual credits’ electives, students can also choose to further explore historical performance, chamber music, contemporary music, jazz or non-Western music. A system of electives allows students to take music theory subjects that relate even more closely to their principal study. Naturally, the entire course is well grounded in a solid theory and music history programme starting in the first academic year. Without a knowledge of theory and historical context, it is difficult to make informed, appropriate artistic and stylistic performance practice choices. A foundation is also laid in the bachelor’s phase for future work as a teacher, with a central focus on securing a position as an artistic entrepreneur in the future. Finally, the curriculum places a growing emphasis on healthy musicianship.
Admission Requirements
In order to be admitted to the bachelor programme at the Conservatorium
van Amsterdam, candidates should possess a graduation certificate from
an institution of secondary education a recognised equivalent of a Dutch
VWO or HAVO certificate at the start of their study.
The Classical/Early Music bachelor entrance exam consists of three rounds:
1. Video Recording Candidates
are asked to submit weblinks to their video recordings, uploaded on
YouTube or Vimeo. The requirements for the videos are determined for
each principal subject. Please make sure that the videos are recorded
from a static perspective, showing hands and face, and that each work or
opus is recorded in a separate video. Be aware that only unedited
videos are allowed to be submitted. You can put the weblinks to your
video recordings in the application form. Candidates whose level in the first round meets the entry requirements will proceed to the principal subject entrance exam.
2. Principal Subject Entrance Exam Aptitude
and suitability are tested with reference to the principal study.
Candidates perform a programme which is to be submitted beforehand of
approximately 20-30 minutes duration (composition: interview).
Programme details are to be submitted beforehand. Please note: if you take the
entrance exam online, you are expected to audition via a video link (no
recordings). Make sure you have a good microphone and internet
connection.
3. Theory Entrance Exam for the preparatory course and all bachelor candidates Only
candidates admissible for the principal subject take a theory entrance
exam. The theory entrance exam usually takes place the day before or the
day after the principal subject entrance exam. This means that
candidates must be present in Amsterdam for at least two days.
Candidates residing outside the EEA who apply online will be invited to
take an online theory entrance exam. The exact date and time will be
stated in the invitation letter.
During the theory entrance exam,
your hearing, solfège skills, and knowledge of music theory will be
tested. The exam consists of the following components.
1. A written part, comprising:
an ear training test
a general music theory test
2. An oral part, comprising:
unaccompanied sight singing
performing a rhythm
singing a song with piano accompaniment
During the entrance examination candidates will be tested for level of
repertoire, technical skills, artistic abilities, development
possibilities, ear tests and musical hearing. If one of these aspects is
considered insufficient, the candidate will fail.
The exam result is communicated to the candidate directly after the
principal subject entrance exam. The result can be 'admissible to the
principal subject' or 'rejected for the principal subject'. The board of
directors (not the exam committee), will make the final decisions
regarding the admissions. In addition to the results of the practical
and theoretical exams (and for foreign candidates their command of the
English language), the number of student places available per section
will be taken into account. As soon as possible after the entrance exams
the candidates will be informed if they will be admitted or not. During
the summer holidays all admitted candidates will receive information on
the start of the study year, the introduction day and the payment of
the tuition fee.
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
Bachelor's Programme in Classical Music
Oosterdokskade, Amsterdam, Netherlands
48 monthsProgramme duration
01 Feb, 2026Application Deadline
AugStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
BMus
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
The Conservatorium van Amsterdam (CvA) provides a wide range of specializations for nearly every conceivable instrumental and vocal principal subject in traditional Western classical music, early music and contemporary music, or a combination of these. The CvA’s leading Composition Department also trains independent, innovative musicians who have mastered the technique of giving voice to their artistic ideas, which will allow them to secure a place for themselves in the international music world. Conductors studying at the CvA can focus on symphonic, choral or wind and fanfare band conducting. The CvA also offers a degree programme for those looking to specialize in music theory. The course offers students the opportunity and support to prepare themselves as effectively as possible and in a context of international competition to enter a diversified labour market and/or a tailored specialist master’s programme. Each principal subject cluster (strings, keyboard instruments, brass and so forth) organizes special projects and masterclasses. The concept of teamteaching has also been adopted in respect of a growing number of principal subjects. In addition, students are involved from the first year of the bachelor’s programme in a chamber music programme and receive coaching either from their own teacher or from other principal study teachers, supplemented on occasion by music theory and music history specialists. Participation in orchestral and ensemble projects offers students numerous opportunities to gain the hands-on experience they need. In addition to the symphony orchestra, there are special wind, string and percussion ensembles, the Sweelinck Baroque Orchestra and the Score Collective for contemporary and the very latest music. The repertoire orchestra rehearses a new repertoire piece every three weeks from September to April. Two orchestral projects are also held during the year. Conductors include both renowned guests and CvA teachers.
Students may choose from two profiles starting in their third year of study:
- the standard All-round Performer Profile, or
- the Performer–Educator Profile, placing special emphasis on the music pedagogy and education skills which today’s performers need.
Both these profiles aim to allow the individual student the greatest scope possible for individual expression and diversity. Using their third and fourth year’s ‘individual credits’ electives, students can also choose to further explore historical performance, chamber music, contemporary music, jazz or non-Western music. A system of electives allows students to take music theory subjects that relate even more closely to their principal study. Naturally, the entire course is well grounded in a solid theory and music history programme starting in the first academic year. Without a knowledge of theory and historical context, it is difficult to make informed, appropriate artistic and stylistic performance practice choices. A foundation is also laid in the bachelor’s phase for future work as a teacher, with a central focus on securing a position as an artistic entrepreneur in the future. Finally, the curriculum places a growing emphasis on healthy musicianship.
Programme overview
Main Subject
Music
Degree
BMus
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
The Conservatorium van Amsterdam (CvA) provides a wide range of specializations for nearly every conceivable instrumental and vocal principal subject in traditional Western classical music, early music and contemporary music, or a combination of these. The CvA’s leading Composition Department also trains independent, innovative musicians who have mastered the technique of giving voice to their artistic ideas, which will allow them to secure a place for themselves in the international music world. Conductors studying at the CvA can focus on symphonic, choral or wind and fanfare band conducting. The CvA also offers a degree programme for those looking to specialize in music theory. The course offers students the opportunity and support to prepare themselves as effectively as possible and in a context of international competition to enter a diversified labour market and/or a tailored specialist master’s programme. Each principal subject cluster (strings, keyboard instruments, brass and so forth) organizes special projects and masterclasses. The concept of teamteaching has also been adopted in respect of a growing number of principal subjects. In addition, students are involved from the first year of the bachelor’s programme in a chamber music programme and receive coaching either from their own teacher or from other principal study teachers, supplemented on occasion by music theory and music history specialists. Participation in orchestral and ensemble projects offers students numerous opportunities to gain the hands-on experience they need. In addition to the symphony orchestra, there are special wind, string and percussion ensembles, the Sweelinck Baroque Orchestra and the Score Collective for contemporary and the very latest music. The repertoire orchestra rehearses a new repertoire piece every three weeks from September to April. Two orchestral projects are also held during the year. Conductors include both renowned guests and CvA teachers.
Students may choose from two profiles starting in their third year of study:
- the standard All-round Performer Profile, or
- the Performer–Educator Profile, placing special emphasis on the music pedagogy and education skills which today’s performers need.
Both these profiles aim to allow the individual student the greatest scope possible for individual expression and diversity. Using their third and fourth year’s ‘individual credits’ electives, students can also choose to further explore historical performance, chamber music, contemporary music, jazz or non-Western music. A system of electives allows students to take music theory subjects that relate even more closely to their principal study. Naturally, the entire course is well grounded in a solid theory and music history programme starting in the first academic year. Without a knowledge of theory and historical context, it is difficult to make informed, appropriate artistic and stylistic performance practice choices. A foundation is also laid in the bachelor’s phase for future work as a teacher, with a central focus on securing a position as an artistic entrepreneur in the future. Finally, the curriculum places a growing emphasis on healthy musicianship.
Admission Requirements
In order to be admitted to the bachelor programme at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, candidates should possess a graduation certificate from an institution of secondary education a recognised equivalent of a Dutch VWO or HAVO certificate at the start of their study.
The Classical/Early Music bachelor entrance exam consists of three rounds:
1. Video Recording
Candidates are asked to submit weblinks to their video recordings, uploaded on YouTube or Vimeo. The requirements for the videos are determined for each principal subject. Please make sure that the videos are recorded from a static perspective, showing hands and face, and that each work or opus is recorded in a separate video. Be aware that only unedited videos are allowed to be submitted. You can put the weblinks to your video recordings in the application form.
Candidates whose level in the first round meets the entry requirements will proceed to the principal subject entrance exam.
2. Principal Subject Entrance Exam
Aptitude and suitability are tested with reference to the principal study. Candidates perform a programme which is to be submitted beforehand of approximately 20-30 minutes duration (composition: interview). Programme details are to be submitted beforehand.
Please note: if you take the entrance exam online, you are expected to audition via a video link (no recordings). Make sure you have a good microphone and internet connection.
3. Theory Entrance Exam for the preparatory course and all bachelor candidates
Only candidates admissible for the principal subject take a theory entrance exam. The theory entrance exam usually takes place the day before or the day after the principal subject entrance exam. This means that candidates must be present in Amsterdam for at least two days. Candidates residing outside the EEA who apply online will be invited to take an online theory entrance exam. The exact date and time will be stated in the invitation letter.
During the theory entrance exam, your hearing, solfège skills, and knowledge of music theory will be tested. The exam consists of the following components.
1. A written part, comprising:
2. An oral part, comprising:
During the entrance examination candidates will be tested for level of repertoire, technical skills, artistic abilities, development possibilities, ear tests and musical hearing. If one of these aspects is considered insufficient, the candidate will fail.
The exam result is communicated to the candidate directly after the principal subject entrance exam. The result can be 'admissible to the principal subject' or 'rejected for the principal subject'. The board of directors (not the exam committee), will make the final decisions regarding the admissions. In addition to the results of the practical and theoretical exams (and for foreign candidates their command of the English language), the number of student places available per section will be taken into account. As soon as possible after the entrance exams the candidates will be informed if they will be admitted or not. During the summer holidays all admitted candidates will receive information on the start of the study year, the introduction day and the payment of the tuition fee.
https://www.conservatoriumvanamsterdam.nl/en/application-and-admission/how-to-apply/
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
More programmes from the university
Arts and Humanities (2)
Bachelor Programme in Pop Music
Bachelor Programme in Pop Music
Bachelor's Degree in Jazz Music
Bachelor's Degree in Jazz Music
Bachelor's Programme in Classical Music
Bachelor's Programme in Classical Music
Bachelor's Programme in Early Music
Bachelor's Programme in Early Music
Social Sciences and Management (2)
Bachelor's Programme in Music in Education
Bachelor's Programme in Music in Education
Arts and Humanities (2)
Jazz Master's Degree Program
Jazz Master's Degree Program
Master Composing for Film
Master Composing for Film
Master Music in Society
Master Music in Society
Master Programme in Pop Music
Master Programme in Pop Music
Master in Immersive Audio
Master in Immersive Audio
Master of Music - Dutch National Opera Academy
Master of Music - Dutch National Opera Academy
Master's Programme in Classical Music
Master's Programme in Classical Music
Master's Programme in Early Music
Master's Programme in Early Music
Master's Programme in Live Electronics
Master's Programme in Live Electronics
Social Sciences and Management (2)
Master of Education in Arts
Master of Education in Arts