Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Performance

Undergraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Program code

BMUSI

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$43,400

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115735E

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (AQF level 5) or higher qualification at a recognised higher education institution.

Essential requirements

All applicants are required to register for an audition for each major, regardless of the number or type of music programs they are applying for. Selection will be based on audition score as long as academic thresholds are met.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Requirement	Score
Australia	ATAR	70
Bangladesh	Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.80
China	Gaokao	60%
China	Maple Leaf Education Systems World School Program	65%
Global	International Baccalaureate	25
Hong Kong	Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	16
India	CBSE and CISCE	70
India	State Board Examinations	80
Indonesia	SMA III	75%
Kenya	Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia	Matrikulasi	2.67
Malaysia	Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.67
Malaysia	United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	23
Nepal	National Examinations Board (NEB)	2.81
Philippines	High School Diploma (Grade 12) (Academic Track) K12	86%
Singapore	Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	7
Sri Lanka	GCE A Levels	8
Taiwan	GSAT %	60%
Thailand	Matayom 6	3.20
UK / Global	GCE Advanced Levels	7
UK / Global	NCUK	7
USA / Global	Advanced Placement (AP)	7
USA / Global	America College Test (ACT)	21
USA / Global	Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)	1100
Vietnam	Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông (Vietnamese Year 12)	7.8

Why Bachelor of Music?

Develop your creativity and musical talent and communicate with audiences at the deepest level.

Be part of an enduring and powerful art form by studying a Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Performance. Inspire and be inspired. Broaden your horizons by learning to play in ensembles and strengthen your collaborative skills and versatility as a musician.

Overview

Prepare for a career in the music industry with a Bachelor of Music. Develop your performance skills, expand your musical knowledge and build an awareness of professional standards.

With a specialisation in Classical Performance, advance your technical skills with an instrument or your own voice. Hone your craft during workshops, rehearsals, masterclasses and one-on-one tuition. Sharpen your collaboration skills in different musical settings including orchestras, wind ensembles, chamber ensembles and choirs. Deepen your aural, theoretical and historical knowledge in classical music. Become culturally and socially sensitive, preparing for the collaborative role of a musician in society. Graduate ready to work as a musician.

Instrument options for this degree include:

Classical voice
Classical brass (trumpet, trombone, tuba, french horn, euphonium)
Classical keyboard (piano, organ, harpsichord)
Classical percussion
Classical strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass, guitar, harp)
Classical woodwind (flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, recorder)
Variety of Baroque instruments.

Key features

Complete classes in technique and repertoire.
Strengthen your collaboration skills by participating in ensembles.
Enhance your aural, theoretical and historical knowledge in classical music.
Perform weekly and receive feedback from staff.
Receive intensive one-to-one tuition with faculty and eminent visiting musicians.
Be part of an internationally renowned music institution, the Elder Conservatorium of Music.
Work in historically informed performance practice with dedicated staff.

What you'll learn

Your music degree will focus on professional development, classical performance and musicianship.

In your classical performance courses, receive one-on-one tuition to develop your technical and performance skills. You’ll present, perform and discuss your repertoire with your peers.

In your professional development courses, you’ll rehearse and perform in ensembles chosen for your individual instrument or voice. Work with professional ensemble directors and learn about professional etiquette and standards.

In musicianship classes, trace the history, culture and new directions of classical music. Listen to works and analyse compositions from various time periods.

Majors

The Bachelor of Music is also available with majors in the following:

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

6 units for all Core courses, and
96 to 114 units for one Major from Majors, and
24 to 42 units for Electives

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Life in Music	Course code MUSI1036	Units 6

Complete 96 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Musicianship 1A	Course code MUSI1004	Units 6
Course name Musicianship 1B	Course code MUSI1009	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 1A	Course code MUSI1027	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 1B	Course code MUSI1028	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 1A	Course code MUSI1029	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 1B	Course code MUSI1031	Units 6
Course name Musicianship 2A	Course code MUSI2003	Units 6
Course name Musicianship 2B	Course code MUSI2007	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 2A	Course code MUSI2025	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 2B	Course code MUSI2026	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 2A	Course code MUSI2027	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 2B	Course code MUSI2029	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 3A	Course code MUSI3027	Units 6
Course name Classical Performance 3B	Course code MUSI3028	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 3A	Course code MUSI3029	Units 6
Course name Music Professional Development 3B	Course code MUSI3031	Units 6

Complete 24 to 42 units comprising:

24 to 42 units for Program electives

Course name		Course code	Units

Career outcomes

Careers in classical music require dedication and passion. Connect with audiences all over the world as a classical performer with orchestras, chamber ensembles and choirs. With a Bachelor of Music majoring in Classical Performance, you can launch a career on any stage.

You might pursue the following careers:

Performer
Music coordinator
Music director
Music educator
Music tutor.

Industry trends

Despite its early origins, classical music continues to transcend time. Its emotion, elegance and tranquillity are harnessed across diverse industries spanning film, performing arts, advertising, events, hospitality and music therapy. With the rise of social media, it’s also much easier to grow a global fan base and advertise your music in cost-effective ways (Forbes, 2023). Take advantage of the many modern applications of classical performance when you study music.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: