"The mission of music is to take us across the boundaries of language and geography. Perform the most sincere voice of the soul on every unfamiliar stage."

Introduction:

In the globalized music world, studying abroad has become an important way for many young musicians to broaden their horizons and improve their performance. Whether traveling to the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, or other countries, each region has its own unique teaching mode and artistic atmosphere, which is suitable for students with different music majors and career plans. In the hope that the whole article can be closer to the real state of mind, the following will be combined with my experience of studying and performing in Hong Kong, the United States and Europe, to provide some tips and tricks for readers who are interested in studying music overseas, hoping to help you move forward more smoothly in the process of preparing or realizing your dream of studying abroad.

1. Clarify goals and school selection: Prepare for school visits and contact professors

Before making an official application, I usually contact the school's official website or with friends/alumni who are already studying at the school to get a preliminary understanding of the school's audition repertoire requirements, language thresholds and expected development directions. If you have the opportunity, you may want to communicate with your favorite professor via email or online meeting, ask them for suggestions on repertoire selection or technical training, and ask if you can arrange a trial or short course to get a feel for the teacher's teaching style. I've personally gone through this process when applying to American conservatories, and some professors are more than happy to consult with you first, so as to avoid a mismatch in musical philosophy when you arrive at the school in the future.

U.S. Colleges and Universities

Conservatories in the United States are known for their diverse and flexible curriculum, especially since they often require students to take other requirement credits in subjects other than music, such as humanities, science, social studies, or languages. This system aims to cultivate students' all-round literacy, so that musicians can not only achieve artistic attainments, but also have a broader vision and critical thinking ability.

During my time at the Cleveland Institute of Music, I took courses in Japanese and astronomy, which seemed unrelated to music, but gave me new inspiration in cultural understanding and logical thinking. For example, Japanese classes helped me gain a deeper understanding of Japanese music culture, while astronomy broadened my imagination of the universe and the natural order, which indirectly influenced my musical interpretation and creative inspiration.

In addition, in my first year of doctorate (D.M.) at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, I took courses in music psychology, arts management, and computer programming science. Music psychology delves into how music affects human emotions, memories and behavior. This class gave me a deeper understanding of the psychological reactions of the audience, and also helped me to use timbre changes and emotional expressions more consciously to impress the audience when playing. Arts management has familiarized me with the operation of the cultural industry and laid the foundation for a possible entry into the field of arts management in the future. The science of computer programming inspired my interest in combining technology and music, such as using programming to create electronic music or designing digital teaching tools.

The flexibility of American conservatories is also reflected in the fact that students can choose a combination of majors and minors. For example, in addition to majoring in piano performance or composition, you can also minor in business, arts management, or other related fields, and some schools even offer the opportunity for students to double major. This is a great option for students who wish to enter music education, cultural management or the creative industries in the future. Overall, the American Conservatory's diverse system has not only broadened my knowledge, but also allowed me to find inspiration in different fields, further enriching my musical expression. If you're interested in interdisciplinary learning, the American Conservatory's flexible system would be ideal.

German and British universities

If you are passionate about classical music traditions and wish to immerse yourself in Europe’s rich cultural and historical context, then conservatories in Germany, Austria, or the United Kingdom are excellent options to consider. German and Austrian conservatories are renowned for their rigorous and systematic teaching methods, with particular emphasis on performance technique, chamber music training, and repertoire interpretation. However, applicants are usually expected to demonstrate a certain level of German proficiency (typically B1 or B2), so it’s wise to begin language preparation early.

A major advantage of German public conservatories is their low tuition fees, which make them especially attractive for students with limited financial resources. However, due to their affordability and prestige, admission is highly competitive and the application process can be strict and demanding.

The United Kingdom is home to elite institutions like the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal Northern College of Music, known for their structured curriculums and abundant performance opportunities. British conservatories often offer rich resources for collaboration with local orchestras, opera companies, and music festivals. For students seeking to gain more stage experience and expand their professional network, the UK provides an ideal study-abroad environment.

Regardless of which country you choose, be sure to thoroughly review the official website of your target institution for detailed information about course offerings, language requirements, and audition repertoire. You should also reach out to alumni or current students to assess your fit with the school and gain valuable insights that can help with long-term planning.

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2. Language and Culture: Embracing an "Immersion" Mindset

2.1 Breaking the Ice with Basic Conversation

You don’t necessarily need to attend a language school before your term begins. Like I did, you can take initiative by learning commonly used phrases and expressions in your host country’s language. Start small but be consistent:

• Memorize key phrases for ordering food or coffee.

• Greet your roommates or classmates using local phrases like “Hello,” “Thank you,” or “I would like…”

• Observe how locals speak in various situations, noting tone, body language, and phrasing, then imitate and adapt.

Even small efforts like these can significantly reduce the cultural gap and help you gain confidence in everyday interactions. You don’t need a classroom to learn a language—you can accumulate listening and speaking skills through casual, repeated engagement.

2.2 Using Music as a Bridge

As a musician, you carry a powerful tool for cross-cultural communication: music.

• Form a chamber group or band with local students. Rehearsing and performing together naturally exposes you to their language and mindset.

• Arrange informal language exchanges: you teach your peers Chinese; they help you with German, French, or English. This relaxed and reciprocal setup is surprisingly effective.

2.3 Respect and Curiosity Toward Cultural Differences

• Learn local customs such as dining etiquette and how professors and students interact in class.

• Don’t isolate yourself due to initial language challenges—most people are welcoming toward international students who try to engage.

• Observe before acting, and ask questions respectfully. A curious and humble attitude will help you connect and learn faster.

3. Connecting with Ideal Professors: Trial Lessons and Masterclasses

3.1 Trial Lessons: Early Contact Matters

Before deciding to apply to study under a specific professor, reach out to them via email or social media—or through school administration—and ask whether a trial lesson or consultation is possible.

• Instruments like piano, voice, or orchestra instruments: You’ll typically visit the professor’s studio and perform selected pieces to get feedback on your playing and sense their teaching style.

• Be prepared: Choose repertoire that highlights your strengths, but also include a challenging section you’d like feedback on. This shows both skill and a willingness to grow.

3.2 Masterclasses: Gain Insight and Build Relationships

Masterclasses are widely offered in conservatories and music festivals. They’re a fast, effective way to experience various teaching styles.

• Apply to perform if possible (active participant), though even attending as an observer (passive participant) provides great learning opportunities.

• Compare how different teachers approach interpretation to avoid falling into a single stylistic mold.

• After class, exchange contact info with fellow students and professors—these new connections may prove helpful during your application process or later in your career.

3.3 Online Lessons and Video Feedback

If an in-person lesson isn’t possible, many professors now accept high-quality video recordings and offer online feedback.

• Check YouTube channels or online platforms where professors may post availability for virtual lessons.

• Record a polished performance, request comments, and follow up by applying their suggestions in a second video—this feedback loop builds rapport and trust.

3.4 Long-Term Mentorship

Studying with a professor at a conservatory means forming a close and long-lasting academic and artistic relationship.

• Don’t blindly follow advice—understand whether the professor’s philosophy resonates with your own.

• Be open to technical corrections at the start, even if it’s overwhelming. Trust that these foundations will support your long-term musical maturity.

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4. Scholarship and Financial Planning: Seek resources from multiple sources

In addition to tuition fees, the cost of studying music abroad is relatively large, and in addition to tuition fees, air tickets, living expenses, instrument maintenance, transportation or purchase, and travel expenses for exams are often not small. If you have multiple financial resources and plan ahead, you can often greatly reduce the financial pressure, so that you can focus on music learning and performance without any worries. In addition to tuition fees, you also have to pay attention to living expenses and musical instruments. Before applying, not only check the institution's Merit-based Scholarship or TA (Teaching Assistantship), but also pay attention to other financial aids, such as:

• Musical talent grants from private foundations or corporations

• International Cultural Exchange Scholarships for Governments at All Levels

• Grants from expatriate organizations or alumni organizations in public music schools such as Germany may have lower tuition fees than in the United States, but German language proficiency and exam competition should not be underestimated. Being able to get in touch with faculty members and demonstrate their skills before admission, and win their recommendations, will also increase your chances of receiving scholarships.

  
  

  The following are four scholarship schemes that are of great interest to Hong Kong students for your reference:

1. Hong Kong Scholarship for Excellence Scheme (HKSES)

Official Website: Click here
Suitable for:
Students who have the right of abode or right to land in Hong Kong;
plan to pursue a bachelor's degree or postgraduate study at a "world-renowned university";
During the course period and after graduation, they must meet the requirement of the number of years of service for their return to Hong Kong.

Scope of Funding:
Tuition subsidy of up to HK$300,000 per year;
If you pass the means test, you can apply for an additional bursary of up to HK$200,000 per year to help cover your living and other study expenses.

Application Highlights:
In addition to academic performance, the selection criteria also attach great importance to the applicant's leadership potential and commitment to Hong Kong society.
It is advisable to prepare the necessary documents (admission notice, letters of recommendation, personal statement, etc.) before the deadline;
The number of applications is limited each year, and it is recommended to start preparing as early as possible.

2. Sir Edward Youde Memorial Fund Overseas Scholarships

Official Information: Click here
Suitable for:
Full-time students in Hong Kong who intend to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies overseas;
Strong academic performance, participation in extra-curricular activities, and enthusiasm for community service.

Scope of Funding:
The amount of the scholarship will normally cover part of the tuition fee and living expenses, depending on the assessment and application status of the scholarship on an annual basis.

Application Highlights:
Applicants are required to provide documents including academic performance, recommendation letters, personal profile, etc. for review;
To encourage and support outstanding Hong Kong students to pursue further studies overseas and contribute to the local community upon their return to Hong Kong.

3. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Music and Dance Fund's Van Ritten Yung Music Fund

Official information: Click here
Suitable for:
Aged 25 or below (as of 31 August 2024)
A Hong Kong permanent resident of Chinese nationality who ordinarily resides in Hong Kong for a continuous period of seven years
Proof of admission to an overseas university or conservatory for the 2024/25 academic year

Scope of Funding:
To provide scholarships for young Hong Kong musicians to pursue further studies overseas, and to return to Hong Kong to give back to the local music industry after completing the programme.

Application Highlights:
Scholarship recipients are required to return to Hong Kong immediately upon completion of the programme to contribute to the music scene in Hong Kong.
Applicants are required to complete the application form and submit the relevant documents to the Administration Building of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.

4. CASH Music Fund

Official Information: Click here
Suitable for:
1. Hong Kong residents with a valid Hong Kong Identity Card
2. The ideal age is 30 years old or below
3. Bachelor's degree graduates majoring in music from local universities

Scope of Funding:
To provide financial assistance to students who wish to pursue further studies abroad for postgraduate studies (majoring in composition). In general, awardees will receive a scholarship of up to HK$200,000 for one academic year.

Application Highlights:
Applicants should have excellent compositional ability and potential.
The scholarship is designed for postgraduate composition programmes to nurture the next generation of composers.

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5. Performances and competitions: Controlling the stage is the fastest shortcut to growth

If you want to improve your music performance quickly, in addition to formal lessons and individual practice, the most effective way is to go on stage and participate in more competitions, and hone your skills and mentality through practical experience. In the course of the competition, you will meet opponents and judges of different nationalities and styles, and learn to adjust your performance in a variety of environments, including stability on the spot, control of the stage, and adaptability to pressure and unexpected situations. Here are some strategies for finding well-known competitions and why it's so important to be proactive in your quest for competitions and performances.

How do I find competitions with international visibility?

Making the most of the Alink-Argerich Foundation (AAF)

The Alink-Argerich Foundation's official website and the competition guide published by the foundation are an important resource for musicians searching for major piano competitions (and other competitions) around the world.

This website contains information about piano competitions around the world, including competition dates, locations, repertoire requirements, age restrictions, judging lists and registration methods, etc., and the official competition information will be updated every week

If you are carefully selecting a well-known competition that matches your level, you may wish to first list the competitions you may participate in by filtering the criteria (e.g. by region and time of day) on the AAF website, and then further check the information of past winners and previous years to assess the level of competition and the value of the competition.

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6. Why is it so important to gain experience in competitions and performances?

Develop a sense of stage presence

There are no classes or rehearsals, and the lighting, sound, and audience pressure on a formal stage can be fully simulated. Through actual competitions and performances, you can quickly gain on-the-spot experience and learn to stay calm and perform at your best in unexpected situations.

Make international connections and mentors

Competitions usually bring together the best musicians from all over the world, and you can meet many like-minded musicians, teachers, or other musicians here. The feedback or advice they give often leads to new performance inspiration, repertoire interpretation concepts or opportunities for future collaborations.

Actively interacting with the contestants and judges to give each other an impression of their name and performance style can help to obtain various invitations (e.g., master classes, music festivals, other competition recommendations) or musical resources.

Improve self-examination and goal setting

Facing strong opponents in a match, you can clearly see where you still need to improve. The results of the competition are important, but the bigger gain is to test your own strength and reformulate your learning goals.

If you can make good use of the post-competition review or the evaluation of industry seniors, correspond to your own skills or interpretation weaknesses, and gradually improve in the next stage of practice in a planned way, you will also be able to upgrade more targetedly.

Accumulate resume and enhance credibility

Being able to advance or win awards in high-level and high-credibility competitions often makes your music resume more attractive, and has a great effect on subsequent applications for scholarships, conservatories or arts festivals.

The more experience you have, the lower the cost of your interaction with the stage, repertoire, and different occasions, and the faster you will be able to adapt when you receive professional invitations in the future, showing a mature and stable performance style.

7. Adjust your mentality: Studying abroad is not a lonely battle

7.1 Coexistence of Sensibility and Rationality: Breaking the Myth of Idealized Study Abroad

Studying abroad is often full of romantic longing at the beginning, like stepping into a "musical paradise". However, in addition to a good recital hall and master coaching, it is also necessary to be mentally prepared to face challenges and pressures. You may not be able to fully express your ideas in an unfamiliar language environment at the beginning; Or when competing with peers, you can feel the gap in the level of performance.

Suggested Practices:

• Before you set off, it's important to recognize that "studying abroad" is not just a travel experience, but a process that requires a high level of focus and continuous effort.

• Give yourself a certain amount of mental space, and allow the anxiety and loss brought about by the adaptation period. Release your emotions through journaling, family chats or meditation to reduce "self-blame".

7.2 Maintain interpersonal network: The school community and the local Chinese community work together

Loneliness often comes from language, cultural differences, and social breakdowns. Even extroverts can feel at a loss at the beginning of a foreign country.

• Tap into on-campus community resources: International Student Associations, Music Student Clubs, Religion/Arts/Language Learning Communities, etc., are all great places to quickly build connections. Participate in orientation activities, club gatherings, and immerse yourself in local student life.

• Meet the local Chinese community: You can find local Hong Kongers, Taiwanese and Chinese communities on platforms such as Facebook or WeChat. They can often provide information about renting, common sense of life, and even help with language and cultural issues. Building a good relationship with experienced seniors can also reduce the time spent exploring in the early stage.

7.3 Trust in yourself: Adjustment methods on the road to music study

• Embrace the run-in period: In a foreign country, there is always anxiety about whether you can keep up with the class and get along with your classmates at the beginning. But everyone has their own trajectory of adaptation, so there's no need to be overly anxious about the outcome.

• Don't be afraid to ask for help: Whether it's an academic problem (e.g., academic writing, theoretical analysis) or a life need (e.g., medical care, psychological counseling), the university and peers usually have the resources to ask about it, and it will be easier to get out of the situation.

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8. Pre-departure notice: review documents, apply for visas and contact listings

8.1 Document Preparation: Understand the prerequisites and schedules

Information for applying to the Conservatory

• Audition Video/Audio Files: Some schools will require a specific repertoire or format, so be sure to read the official announcement carefully.

• Academic Achievements / Letters of Recommendation / Personal Statement: Highlight your passion and plan for the major you are applying for, and demonstrate your past performance experience or academic achievements.

• Passport and ID card: Make sure that the validity period is sufficient to cover the entire duration of your study, and renew it as early as possible if it is about to expire.

Visa application

• U.S. Visa: The most common student visa is the F-1. After obtaining the I-20 from the school, you need to make an appointment with the embassy and prepare sufficient financial resources to prove that you have accepted the music school.

• European regions (e.g. Germany, Austria): Generally, you need to apply for a long-term student visa, submit a bank statement, proof of accommodation (if any) and insurance. It is important to pay attention to the language proficiency requirements of each country, such as German B1 or B2.

• UK Visa (Tier 4 General Student Visa): CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) and proof of living expenses of a certain amount are required.

• Suggestion: Start the visa application 2-3 months in advance, especially during the peak season (around the summer vacation), which is more likely to cause processing delays.

8.2 Connecting with Listings: The Key to Saving Money and Peace of Mind

• On-campus dormitories
  Most music schools or universities offer international student dormitories, with basic furniture and common spaces (kitchen, living room, practice room, etc.). Although the cost is not necessarily the cheapest, it saves the trouble of finding a house in a different place for the first time, and also provides convenience for communicating with classmates.

  
  

• Off-campus rentals
  You can check the second-hand information of the school's International Student Office, student associations or local rental websites. If there is a spare room for acquaintances or fellow villagers, it is also a relatively safe option to share life experience.
  Beware of the pitfalls: foreign rental scams occur from time to time, so if you encounter a request such as "you need to pay a deposit to keep your listing", you must be careful to verify it, or ask for an online viewing and sign a formal contract before paying.

8.3 Insurance and Health Affairs

• Medical insurance: Some countries or schools specify that international students must purchase local health insurance, and failure to provide a policy may affect registration. At the same time, it is recommended to apply for appropriate travel insurance when you are in Hong Kong for accident protection when you arrive in Hong Kong or transfer flights.

• Health check-ups and vaccinations: Be aware that some countries (especially the United States) have specific regulations on vaccines, tuberculosis testing, etc., and any gaps may lead to a failure to register at the start of the school year.

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9. Harvest of studying abroad: growth beyond textbooks

9.1 Accumulating an International Perspective: The Impact of Multiculturalism

The most valuable part of studying abroad is not only the technical improvement in music lessons, but also the collision with teachers and peers from all over the world.

• Cultural exchange opportunities: You will find that there is not only a single mode of musical interpretation, but also that students from different countries and musical traditions will bring surprising interpretations and musical understandings.

• Leap in learning mindset: In a cross-cultural environment, from rehearsals and competitions to concert preparations, you need an inclusive mindset to grow into a more inclusive and broad-minded musician.

9.2 Cultivating Independence: Life Management and Self-Exploration

• Take care of yourself: Buying your own ingredients, cooking your own meals, and handling daily utility bills, banking, etc., are all important steps towards independence.

• Time & Stress Management: On-campus classes, daily rehearsals, and competition participation are all part of the process, forcing you to improve your self-management skills. Over time, you'll become more aware of how you allocate your resources and energy when faced with a busy schedule.

• Reflection and meditation: Stepping out of your familiar comfort zone allows you to see your inner needs, preferences and strengths more clearly. During this journey, international music students often rethink "why they play" and "what kind of musician they want to be in the future".

9.3 Building long-term connections: expanding the possibilities of the music industry

• Peer interaction: Students who work together in foreign countries often build deep friendships and tacit understanding, and these students may become your partners and windows on music platforms in different countries in the future.

• Industry connections: Through professorial recommendations or music exchange events organized by your school, you will also have the opportunity to meet professionals such as agents, conductors, composers, and even record labels, which will lay the foundation for future performance invitations, faculty applications, or other music projects.

9.4 Giving Back and Starting Again: Become a More Complete Musician

After obtaining their degrees, many international students choose to stay in Hong Kong to continue their studies or pursue a career in music-related industries, while others choose to return to Hong Kong or other Asian regions to pursue their careers. Regardless of where you go, this journey abroad has given you an international perspective, independent thinking, and a broader musical mind.

• Sharing your thoughts: Returning to your alma mater or community to share what you have seen and heard overseas with your juniors can help young students who are interested in pursuing the same path to plan more effectively.

• Keep learning: Studying abroad is not the end, but the process that will bring you to a higher "starting point". After returning to China, I will continue to participate in master classes, international music festivals, or consider studying in other music-related fields (arts management, sound engineering, etc.), so that I can continue to transform myself into a more well-rounded musician.

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Conclusion: Every step forward is the beginning of the experience

Looking at the whole process of studying abroad, from pre-departure preparation to stepping on an unfamiliar land, to graduating or continuing to study in the future, you will continue to learn, adjust, impact, and precipitate, and finally you will get richer life growth than language and skills. I hope you will uphold your original intention and passion for music, and cherish this precious study abroad journey.

If you're thinking about studying abroad, don't be afraid to email your professors or administrators first, or get a feel for the local atmosphere through short-term masterclasses, summer and winter courses. Although there may be anxiety and even setbacks along the way, it is these ups and downs that accumulate your resilience and international outlook. I hope that one day in the future, we can meet on a stage or in a concert hall in the world, communicate with each other, support each other, and continue to tell your story with music.

Bless you on this wonderful musical journey!