Conservatoire Provision at MTU Cork School of Music
Welcome to Ireland’s leading conservatoire. Housed in a world-class, purpose-built facility on Union Quay, MTU Cork School of Music provides high-caliber training in music, drama, and performing arts for students of all ages—from early childhood to pre-professional preparation and adult study.
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Our Learning Pathways
Whether you are starting your musical journey or preparing for third-level study, we offer tailored pathways at every stage:
Early Years & Primary School (Ages 3 – 12)
Kinder Music & Pocodots: Fun, structured introductions to music for preschool and young children.
Junior Musicianship: Core music literacy, rhythm, and ear-training required alongside instrumental studies.
Beginner Instrumental Lessons: Individual tuition for young learners (piano, strings, wind, brass, percussion).
Secondary School & Pre-Professional (Ages 12 – 18)
Senior Musicianship: High-level academic and practical theory, including Leaving Certificate Music support.
Individual Tuition: One-to-one classes and tuition across classical music and drama.
Performing Ensembles: Orchestras, wind bands, choirs, jazz big bands, and chamber groups.
Adult & Continuing Education
Musicianship for Adults: Evening classes tailored for adult beginners and returning musicians.
Indivdual Tuition & Ensembles: Individual lessons in classical music and community ensembles across multiple disciplines.
Continuous Personal Development & Short Courses: These can be short 2 days courses, or once a week for a term. Disciplines may include conducting, medieval music, vocal teaching.
Our Departments & Disciplines
Keyboard Studies: Piano, Organ, Harpsichord
Orchestral Studies: Strings; Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, Guitar; Brass, Woodwind & Percussion: Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, Saxophone, Trumpet, Horn, Trombone, Tuba, Percussion
Musicianship: Development of critical aural and theory skills.
Voice: Classical Singing & Choirs
Speech & Drama: Acting, and theatre ensembles
Essential Application Guidelines
Important Policy Highlights:
Primary School Students: All primary school-aged instrumental students must attend an appropriate Musicianship class alongside their instrumental lessons.
Beginners: First-year beginners must complete Year 1 of Junior Musicianship prior to starting individual instrumental tuition.
Waiting Lists: Waiting lists do not carry over from year to year. Unsuccessful applicants must reapply for the following academic year.
For detailed application steps, deadlines, and Classter setup guides, please visit our Conservatoire Applications Page.
Contact Conservatoire Admissions
Email: conservatoire@mtu.ie
Phone: +353 (0)21 480 7310
Location: MTU Cork School of Music, Union Quay, Cork (T12 E9HY)
Office Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 9:00am – 5pm