Organ Improvisation
Master of Music
The content of the main subject module (two SWS over four semesters) is as follows: Development of demanding prepared and unprepared improvisations (free or according to specifications), also in larger forms and different styles and in a concert setting as well as differentiated song accompaniment. Depending on the student's inclination, improvisation on texts, images or films as well as group improvisation together with other instrumental or vocal soloists are also included.
The major module concludes with a public improvisation concert.
The studies in the main subject are accompanied by the compulsory module "Music Theory for Improvisers", in which analytical and practical compositional studies are carried out specifically with regard to improvisation.
The Concert Exam degree program can be taken in the subjects of organ, organ improvisation, or the combined subject of “organ and organ improvisation.” For the combined subject the separate organ and organ improvisation degree plan (pdf) (this file is not barrier-free) applies.
Requirements in the entrance exam
Ad hoc improvisations within a wide range of styles and forms based on given themes, texts, images or short film clips. The commission will set the theme 30 minutes before the start of the audition (conception time without instrument). At least three stylistic areas should be used, including contemporary musical language, one or more larger form(s) (e.g. passacaglia, sonata, symphonic movement, fantasy and fugue or similar) and polyphonic improvisation.