Schumann Junior

The Schumann Junior Institute offers courses to highly gifted children and youth. In addition to regular lessons in the respective main subject (instrument or voice) and ensemble playing, the content of the program includes music theory, music in context, and body and self-awareness in the form of weekend seminars within the semester.

The examination board decides on aptitude and admission to the degree program as part of the proficiency test, which takes place twice a year.

Who can apply?

The prerequisite for admission to training at the Institut Schumann Junior is exceptional musical talent. In addition, attendance at a general education school in Germany is required.
The Prorector for Studies decides on exceptions to the latter requirement upon application. Teaching and Research in consultation with the Director of the Schumann Junior Institute and the requested main subject teacher. The application must be submitted to the Director of the Schumann Junior Institute prior to the application.

What happens during the entrance examination?

The proficiency test involves two steps:

1) With the application, the applicant submits three video recordings (each uncut) of three works (accompaniment optional). The total length should be 10-15 minutes. The prepared program should cover different epochs and include a virtuoso work/etude and a slow movement. On the basis of the submitted video recordings, the examination board will make a preliminary selection and decide whether the applicant will be invited to the presence examination. 

2) For the presence examination, the applicant prepares three stylistically different works and presents the list to the examination board. It should contain demanding literature, including a virtuoso work/étude and a slow movement. The Works can be identical to those submitted by video in the application. An accompanist will be provided by the university. The board selects the works to be performed from the list. This is followed by a short interview. Above all, artistry and technical skills are evaluated.


How much is covered in the program?

Each young student receives individualized instruction on his or her major instrument. Lessons are held weekly after school and are 60 minutes per week in Level 1 (ages 8-14) and 90 minutes per week in Level 2 (ages 12-16) and Level 3 (ages 14-18). In addition there are
Weekend seminars in music theory, music in context and body and self-awareness as well as ensemble playing. Seminar dates are announced before the semester starts. Several times in each semester, the children and young people have the opportunity to present the repertoire they have worked on in front of an audience as part of the Schumann Junior Our Young Talents concert series.


When does the young talents program of studies end?

Studies usually end at the time of graduation from high school, for example with the Abitur. Young students can then apply for a regular program of studies at a conservatory.


How much does the early-admission program cost?

A tuition fee of €300 is charged per semester.

Applications must be submitted online, along with access to the online application portal Muvac. Further information can be found here (German).
Application for admission – Requirements – Schumann Junior