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Faculty of PhilosophyMusicology

The musicology programme deals with music in all its theoretical and practical forms and contexts. The main focus of Heidelberg University’s Department of Musicology is the scientific study of European music history from antiquity until today.

As at most universities in Germany, teaching and learning at Heidelberg University concentrates on historical musicology even though systematically- and ethnologically-oriented courses are occasionally also offered. To this end, the academic programme covers the entire history of European music, such as texture and analysis, the history of musical notation and composition, organology and the history of interpretation, the history of genres and institutions, as well as aesthetics and reception. One tradition that goes back to the founding years of the department is the study of older music history. 

Special Features and Characteristics

The broad spectrum of musicology topics from all periods of music history, including modern and contemporary music, is regularly complemented by professional seminars, changing performance and exhibition events as well as additional courses from a variety of specialised areas. 

Research

  • Music, confession and liturgy
  • History of musical reception and genres
  • Musical Romanticism and forms of nationalism
  • The notion of creation and self-reflection in music
  • Eastern European music with a focus on Russia

Career Options

Graduates may pursue a career in a range of sectors, including the following.

Research and teaching:

  • as a professor or lecturer (in a university or an institution of higher education)
  • as a researcher (in a university, institution of higher education, or in an independent research institute)

Dramatic composition:

  • concert dramaturgy
  • opera and theatre dramaturgy
  • festival dramaturgy
  • dramaturgy for broadcasting, film, or television

Journalism and editorial:

  • press and print media
  • broadcasting
  • publishing
  • record label

Culture management:

  • public services (e.g. department for culture, public concert house, cultural foundation)
  • private industry (festival, orchestra management, agency, etc.)

Career in the civil service:

  • librarianship
  • archival work
  • diplomatic service
  • museum curation
  • auctioneer

Insights

Studierende Musikwissenschaft Uni Heidelberg

I study Musicology and German studies because I am in constant contact with music and enjoy working creatively and independently. I would love to work as a dramaturge in a theatre one day.

Alicia Kern, 22, Musicology, 5th semester Bachelor