Music and Dance Courses and Colleges in Japan

Checkout the Universities offering Music and Dance Courses in Japan, Music and Dance Colleges in Japan....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Feb 19, 2024 03:55:41

Universities Offering Music and Dance Courses in Japan

Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai)

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: Tokyo University of the Arts is one of Japan's most prestigious art institutions, offering comprehensive programs in both music and dance. The university is renowned for its traditional and contemporary music programs, including composition, performance, and musicology.

  • Programs: Undergraduate and graduate programs in various music disciplines, including instrumental music, vocal music, composition, conducting, and musicology. The university also offers courses in traditional Japanese music.

Kyoto City University of Arts

  • Location: Kyoto

  • Overview: As one of the oldest art schools in Japan, Kyoto City University of Arts has a rich history of fostering talent in various art forms, including music. The university is well-regarded for its emphasis on both traditional Japanese and Western music.

  • Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in music, focusing on performance, composition, and music theory.

Senzoku Gakuen College of Music

  • Location: Kanagawa (near Tokyo)

  • Overview: Known for its modern approach to music education, Senzoku Gakuen College of Music offers a wide array of courses in contemporary and classical music genres.

  • Programs: Provides a range of undergraduate and graduate courses in music performance, composition, music production, and music education.

Osaka University of Arts

  • Location: Osaka

  • Overview: Osaka University of Arts encompasses a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including a dedicated school for music. The university is noted for its innovative programs and state-of-the-art facilities.

  • Programs: Offers courses in various music fields, including performance, music education, and music technology, at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Kunitachi College of Music

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: Established as one of Japan's premier music colleges, Kunitachi College of Music is celebrated for its high standard of education in classical music performance and theory.

  • Programs: Provides comprehensive programs in vocal and instrumental performance, composition, conducting, and musicology.

Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts

  • Location: Okinawa

  • Overview: Unique for its focus on the arts and culture of the Ryukyu Islands, this university offers specialized programs in traditional Okinawan music and dance, alongside courses in Western and contemporary music.

  • Programs: Offers studies in traditional Ryukyu music and dance, as well as Western music disciplines.

Japan Women’s University

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: While known for its broad academic offerings, Japan Women’s University also provides a robust music program, focusing on performance, education, and therapy.

  • Programs: The Department of Music offers courses aimed at training music educators, performers, and music therapists.

For Dance Programs

While dedicated dance programs might be less common in traditional universities, many art schools and specialized institutions offer courses in dance, including traditional Japanese dance, ballet, contemporary, and modern dance. Students interested in dance education should also consider exploring programs at conservatories and private dance academies, which often provide intensive training and performance opportunities.

Admission and Language Requirements

  • Most programs require proficiency in Japanese, as courses are commonly taught in the Japanese language. However, some institutions may offer select courses in English or support international students with Japanese language courses.

  • Admission typically involves an application, academic transcripts, performance auditions (for performance-based programs), and sometimes, Japanese language proficiency tests.

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Scholarship for Music and Dance Courses in Japan

1. MEXT Scholarship

  • Sponsor: Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT)

  • Overview: This prestigious scholarship is available to international students at undergraduate and graduate levels, including those pursuing music and dance.

  • Coverage: Tuition fees, a monthly allowance, and airfare to and from Japan.

  • Eligibility: Applicants must pass both the initial screening by the Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country and subsequent examinations.

2. JASSO Scholarships

  • Sponsor: Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO)

  • Overview: Offers scholarships for short-term study in Japan for students accepted by Japanese universities under student exchange agreements.

  • Coverage: Monthly stipend and sometimes travel expenses.

  • Eligibility: Must be recommended by the accepting university and not receiving other scholarships for the same period.

3. University-specific Scholarships

  • Many Japanese universities offer their scholarships to international students based on academic merit, artistic talent, or financial need.

  • Examples:

    • Tokyo University of the Arts provides scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding artistic ability.

    • Kyoto City University of Arts and other institutions also offer scholarships, which may cover partial or full tuition fees and living expenses.

  • Eligibility: but typically includes a combination of academic performance, artistic talent, and sometimes financial need.

4. Private Foundations and External Scholarships

  • Several private foundations in Japan and internationally offer scholarships to students in the arts, including music and dance.

  • Examples:

    • The Rohm Music Foundation Scholarship for music students.

    • The Nomura Foundation provides grants to individuals engaged in cultural and artistic activities.

  • Eligibility: Criteria vary widely but often include artistic talent, academic achievement, and the potential for future contribution to the arts.

Application Tips

  • Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your applications well in advance of deadlines.

  • Portfolio/Audition Preparation: For music and dance scholarships, preparing a strong portfolio or audition piece is crucial. Select works that showcase your talent and versatility.

  • Language Proficiency: While not all scholarships require proficiency in Japanese, some programs and universities might. Consider taking Japanese language courses if necessary.

  • Recommendation Letters: Letters from teachers, mentors, or professionals in your field can significantly strengthen your application.

Finding Scholarships

  • University Websites: Check the official websites of the universities you're interested in for detailed information on available scholarships.

  • Japanese Embassies and Consulates: These often provide information and application forms for government-sponsored scholarships.

  • Online Scholarship Databases: Websites like JASSO and MEXT, as well as other educational resources, list scholarships available for international students in Japan.

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Best Music and Dance Universities in Japan

Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai)

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: Tokyo University of the Arts is one of the most prestigious art universities in Japan and globally, renowned for its music and fine arts programs. It offers a wide range of courses in music, from classical Western and traditional Japanese music to contemporary genres.

  • Programs: Undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including instrumental music, vocal music, composition, conducting, and musicology. The university also has a dedicated department for traditional Japanese music.

Kyoto City University of Arts

  • Location: Kyoto

  • Overview: As one of the oldest art institutions in Japan, Kyoto City University of Arts has a rich history and tradition in arts education, including music and performing arts. It is well-regarded for its emphasis on both traditional Japanese and Western music.

  • Programs: Offers programs in music performance, composition, and music theory, along with graduate studies focusing on music research and advanced practice.

Osaka University of Arts

  • Location: Osaka

  • Overview: Known for its diverse range of creative arts programs, Osaka University of Arts provides comprehensive training in music and dance, alongside visual arts and design. The university encourages innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to arts education.

  • Programs: Includes studies in instrumental and vocal performance, composition, music education, and dance, with opportunities for cross-disciplinary projects and performances.

Senzoku Gakuen College of Music

  • Location: Kanagawa

  • Overview: Focused exclusively on music education, Senzoku Gakuen College of Music offers specialized programs designed to prepare students for professional careers in music. It is known for its modern facilities and international collaborations.

  • Programs: Comprehensive music programs covering classical, jazz, and popular music performance, music composition, music production, and music education.

Kunitachi College of Music

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Overview: Kunitachi College of Music, one of the leading music colleges in Japan, is celebrated for its high academic and performance standards. It has produced numerous distinguished musicians and scholars.

  • Programs: Offers a wide array of music courses, including performance, composition, conducting, musicology, and music education, with a strong emphasis on both solo and ensemble performance.

Showa University of Music

  • Location: Kanagawa

  • Overview: Showa University of Music is dedicated to fostering musical talents who can thrive both in Japan and on the international stage. It provides an environment that nurtures creativity, technical proficiency, and artistic expression.

  • Programs: Specializes in areas of music performance, composition, and production, with a focus on contemporary music education and international exchange programs.

Elizabeth University of Music

  • Location: Hiroshima

  • Overview: With a unique history and affiliation with the Catholic Church, Elizabeth University of Music offers a nurturing environment for studying sacred music, alongside classical and contemporary music disciplines.

  • Programs: Programs focus on vocal and instrumental performance, composition, and sacred music, with a commitment to high artistic standards and spiritual growth.

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Bachelor in Music and Dance Courses in Japan

Notable Universities and Colleges

Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai)

  • Location: Tokyo

  • Specialties: Offers a broad spectrum of courses in both music and fine arts, including traditional Japanese music, Western classical music, and contemporary arts.

Kyoto City University of Arts

  • Location: Kyoto

  • Specialties: Known for fostering a deep understanding of both traditional Japanese arts and Western artistic practices, with strong programs in music and fine arts.

Osaka University of Arts

  • Location: Osaka

  • Specialties: Provides diverse arts programs, including music and performing arts, with a focus on contemporary artistic expression.

Program Highlights

  • Curriculum: Bachelor's programs in music typically include coursework in performance, theory, history, and composition, offering students a well-rounded education in their field. Dance programs may cover choreography, performance, theory, and history of dance, with opportunities to study various styles.

  • Performance Opportunities: Many institutions offer regular performance opportunities, including recitals, concerts, and productions, allowing students to gain valuable stage experience.

  • Faculty: Programs are often taught by highly experienced and accomplished professionals in the field, offering students mentorship and guidance in their artistic development.

  • Facilities: Universities in Japan are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including performance halls, rehearsal spaces, recording studios, and libraries.

Admission Requirements

  • Academic Records: High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Audition: Most music and dance programs require an audition as part of the admission process. Applicants typically need to prepare pieces or performances that showcase their skills and potential.

  • Language Proficiency: For programs taught in Japanese, proficiency in the language is usually required (JLPT N2 level is a common requirement). However, some programs offered in English may only require English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores).

  • Application Documents: Application form, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and any additional requirements specified by the institution.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • MEXT Scholarship: Offered by the Japanese government to international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare.

  • Private Scholarships: Many universities, private foundations, and organizations offer scholarships based on academic or artistic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study.

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Notable Institutions Offering Graduate Programs

Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai)

  • Specialties: A leading institution for arts education in Japan, offering advanced studies in various music and dance disciplines, including traditional Japanese music, classical Western music, and contemporary arts.

  • Program Highlights: Provides opportunities for research, performance, and collaboration with renowned artists and scholars.

Kyoto City University of Arts

  • Specialties: Known for its emphasis on both traditional and modern arts, offering graduate programs in music with a focus on performance, composition, and musicology.

  • Program Highlights: Engages students in a broad spectrum of musical studies and performances, fostering a deep understanding of the arts within a cultural context.

Osaka University of Arts

  • Specialties: Offers a diverse range of programs in performing arts, including music and dance, with a focus on contemporary and innovative artistic practices.

  • Program Highlights: Encourages interdisciplinary projects and provides modern facilities for artistic creation and research.

Program Features

  • Curriculum: Master's programs in music and dance typically include coursework in performance, theory, history, and research methods, along with elective courses allowing for specialization in areas of interest.

  • Research and Thesis: Most programs require the completion of a thesis or final project, which involves original research or a creative endeavor under the guidance of faculty advisors.

  • Performance Opportunities: Students often have the chance to participate in recitals, concerts, and productions, showcasing their work to public and academic audiences.

Admission Requirements

  • Academic Background: A bachelor's degree in music, dance, or a related field, demonstrating a solid foundation in the arts.

  • Audition/Portfolio: Applicants may be required to audition or submit a portfolio of their work, depending on the program's focus.

  • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Japanese (JLPT N1 or N2) for programs taught in Japanese, or TOEFL/IELTS scores for English-taught programs.

  • Research Proposal: For research-focused programs, a proposal outlining the applicant's intended area of study is often required.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • MEXT Scholarship: The Japanese government offers scholarships for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, and airfare.

  • University Scholarships: Many universities provide their own scholarships based on academic merit, artistic achievement, or financial need.

  • Private Foundations: organizations offer scholarships and grants to students pursuing advanced studies in the arts.

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PhD in Music and Dance Courses in Japan

Leading Institutions for PhD in Music and Dance in Japan

1. Tokyo University of the Arts (Geidai): Renowned for its arts programs, Geidai offers advanced degrees in music and dance. The institution is highly regarded for both traditional Japanese and Western music studies, providing a vibrant environment for research and performance.

2. Kyoto City University of Arts: Offers a strong program in traditional and contemporary arts, including music and dance. The university encourages interdisciplinary research and provides opportunities to explore the cultural context of Japanese performing arts.

3. Osaka University of Arts: While more focused on undergraduate education, Osaka University of Arts has graduate programs that may cater to those interested in advanced studies, particularly in innovative and contemporary practices in music and dance.

4. The Graduate School for the Creation of New Photonics Industries: While not a traditional choice for music and dance, this institution offers interdisciplinary PhD programs that might intersect with technology-driven arts research, such as performance technology, sound engineering, and multimedia art.

Research Areas and Specializations

  • Traditional Japanese Music and Dance: Studies can focus on Noh, Kabuki, Bunraku, and other traditional forms, exploring their history, performance practice, and cultural significance.

  • Contemporary Music and Dance: Research may cover contemporary performance practices, composition, choreography, and the integration of technology in the arts.

  • Ethnomusicology and Ethnochoreology: Scholars can explore the music and dance of Japan from an anthropological perspective, examining social, cultural, and historical contexts.

  • Musicology and Dance Studies: This includes theoretical and analytical studies of music and dance, exploring genres, styles, and the work of specific composers or choreographers.

Admission Requirements

  • Academic Background: Applicants typically need a relevant master's degree in music, dance, or a related field.

  • Research Proposal: A detailed proposal outlining the research question, methodology, and significance of the study is crucial.

  • Language Proficiency: While some programs may offer courses in English, proficiency in Japanese is often necessary for research, especially in traditional arts. Applicants may need to demonstrate their language proficiency through tests like the JLPT.

  • Audition/Portfolio: Depending on the focus of the PhD, applicants might be required to audition or submit a portfolio of their work.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • MEXT Scholarship: The Japanese government offers scholarships for international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

  • University Scholarships: Individual institutions may offer scholarships or research assistantships to support PhD students.

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Eligibility Criteria for Music and Dance Course Program in Japan

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degree)

1. Educational Background: Completion of high school education or an equivalent qualification is typically required. Applicants must have graduated from high school or be expected to graduate before enrolling in the university.

2. Audition/Portfolio: Many music and dance programs require applicants to pass an audition or submit a portfolio of their work, showcasing their talent and proficiency in their chosen field.

3. Language Proficiency: For programs taught in Japanese, proficiency in the Japanese language is often necessary. This is usually demonstrated through the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), with most programs requiring a minimum of N2 level. For English-taught programs, proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS may be required.

4. Entrance Examination: Some institutions also require passing an entrance examination, which may include written tests and interviews, in addition to the audition or portfolio review.

Postgraduate Programs (Master’s and PhD Degrees)

1. Academic Background: For Master’s programs, applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field. For PhD programs, a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is typically required.

2. Research Proposal: Especially for PhD applicants, a detailed research proposal that outlines the intended area of study, research questions, methodology, and how the research contributes to the field of music or dance is crucial.

3. Audition/Portfolio: Similar to undergraduate programs, postgraduate applicants may need to pass an audition or submit a portfolio, particularly for performance-based studies.

4. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Japanese (JLPT N2 or higher) for Japanese-taught programs or English (TOEFL, IELTS) for English-taught programs. Requirements vary by program and institution.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Letters from academic advisors or professionals in the field that attest to the applicant's abilities and suitability for advanced study may be required.

6. Previous Work: For PhD programs, evidence of previous research work, publications, or performances can strengthen the application.

General Considerations

  • Application Deadlines: These vary widely among institutions and programs. It’s essential to check specific deadlines well in advance.

  • Financial Proof: International students may need to provide proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses during their study.

  • Scholarships: Applicants are encouraged to apply for scholarships, such as the MEXT scholarship, which may have specific eligibility criteria and earlier application deadlines.

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Intakes & Application Deadlines for Music and Dance Courses in Japan

Common Intake Periods

1. April Intake: The primary intake for most Japanese universities, aligning with the start of the academic year in Japan. Applications for this intake usually open in the preceding year, around October to December.

2. September/October Intake: Some institutions may offer a secondary intake in autumn. Application periods for these programs typically run from early to mid-year, around April to June.

It's important to note that specialized programs, particularly in performance arts like music and dance, might have specific audition dates that could affect when you need to apply and be present in Japan.

Application Deadlines

  • For April Intake: Deadlines can range from the previous October to January, depending on the university and program. Some programs, especially those requiring auditions or portfolio submissions, may have earlier deadlines to accommodate the scheduling of these assessments.

  • For September/October Intake: Application deadlines are generally between April and July of the same year. Similar to the April intake, earlier deadlines may apply for programs requiring auditions.

Special Considerations for Music and Dance Programs

  • Audition Dates: Many music and dance programs require live auditions, which can take place several months before the program start date. International students need to pay special attention to these dates as they may need to travel to Japan specifically for the audition unless there are provisions for remote auditions or portfolio submissions.

  • Portfolio Submissions: For programs that accept or require portfolio submissions, deadlines for these materials may differ from the general application deadline. Ensure you check the specific requirements well in advance.

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Fees for Music and Dance Courses in Japan

Public Universities

  • Undergraduate Programs: Annual tuition fees at public universities are relatively standardized by the government. As of my last update, the annual tuition for undergraduate programs was about 535,800 JPY (approximately 4,800 USD). However, music and dance programs might have additional costs for facilities, equipment, and performance-related expenses.

  • Graduate Programs: For master's and PhD programs, the annual tuition fees are also about 535,800 JPY. Similar to undergraduate programs, additional costs may apply depending on the specific requirements of the music or dance program.

Private Universities

  • Undergraduate and Graduate Programs: Tuition fees at private universities can vary widely but tend to be higher than those at public institutions. Annual tuition for music and dance courses can range from about 800,000 JPY to over 2,000,000 JPY (approximately 7,200 to 18,000 USD) or more, depending on the university and program specifics.

Additional Costs

Beyond tuition fees, students should also budget for other expenses, such as:

  • Admission Fees: One-time fees charged upon enrollment, which can range from 200,000 JPY to 300,000 JPY (approximately 1,800 to 2,700 USD).

  • Facility and Equipment Fees: Specific to music and dance programs, these cover the use of specialized facilities and equipment. The costs vary by program and institution.

  • Living Expenses: Including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, living costs in Japan can range from about 800,000 JPY to 1,200,000 JPY (approximately 7,200 to 10,800 USD) per year, varying significantly by location and lifestyle.