In the introduction video, the applicant tells in their own words about themself and the proposed development task. In this context, the video is a free-form presentation with images and sound. The technical quality of the video is not assessed, as long as it is clear. Instead of a video shot with a mobile phone or camera, a video could be a powerpoint presentation with a soundtrack or a recording of a one-to-one online meeting. The video should be 5-10 minutes long. If the video is longer or shorter than this, it will reduce the number of points awarded.

As a minimum, cover the following in the video:

Performance Demonstration: Applicants are required to submit a video of their performance and showcase the applicant’s musical ability.

Briefly describe yourself from a professional point of view (based on your CV, for example). Also, why should you be chosen to study?

What is the value of a master’s degree education for you? 

Give a short sales pitch for your development project: why should it be done and what are the benefits for you and for the cultural sector in general?  Do you see any risks to the success of the exercise?

As part of the preliminary assignment, the applicant will also prepare a preliminary plan for the development assignment for their thesis. The thesis for a Master’s degree is a research and development project that promotes working life and regional development. It has a clear work and/or cultural development perspective. It is important that the objectives are concrete when drawing up the plan.

The plan measures the student’s skills in approaching a work-based development task. It will assess the concreteness of the objectives, the appropriateness of the theory and content, the realism of the methods and timetable, and the usefulness of the results for the student and the cultural sector.

The plan should be 2-4 pages in length (A4 size, Arial 12 font, 1,5 line spacing and 2 cm margins). It should show at least:

what results are sought and how the subject of the work is to be developed.

Project/Concert Proposal: Applicant should submit proposal for potential project or concert. The proposal should explore the intersection of music with other art forms that may push the boundaries of traditional concert experiences and incorporate original elements and innovative programming.

the subject of the work and the question or problem it seeks to answer

the background to the work, its objectives and an idea of how it will be carried out

the main concepts, research methods and knowledge base of the work

The CV will be drawn up specifically from the point of view of the cultural sector. The CV should be presented in a concise manner. It should show, for example, the studies completed, work history and specific merits (such as being in charge of major productions, being a director of one’s own or a pupil’s company, etc.).

It is also a good idea to include a list of publications, a catalogue of works or similar. The list should be condensed to key outputs. For example, a journalist does not need to list their normal publications, but their publication activity is reflected in the work history. If you wish, you can write a short supplementary statement.

If work experience is demonstrated by artistic activity, an artistic portfolio should be attached at the end of the CV. The content and duration of the artistic activity must be presented in such a way as to enable the selection board to compare the scope and duration of the activity with full-time employment.

Applicants may come from very different backgrounds. Therefore, the type of CV may also be very different and the exact format is left to the discretion of the applicant. The maximum length of a CV is six A4 pages (excluding the artistic portfolio). It is essential that the CV clearly highlights the applicant’s main merits.

Interview is evaluated on a scale of 0 to 100 points (min. points 20). In the event of a tie, all applicants with the same score will be selected.

The skill of the applicant’s English is evaluated on the basis of advance assignments and the interview, in addition to demonstrated sufficient proficiency in the English language during the application.

Interview topics include:

Future Vision: During the interview, applicant is asked to share their vision for their future as a musician. This will help understanding their long-term goals and how this program can support them in achieving these goals. 

More in-depth discussion of the applicant’s skills and aspirations.