Collarts (Australian College of the Arts)
8 months full-time
Accelerate your music career with this 8-month intensive diploma combining hands-on performance training, music theory, and industry mentorship from ARIA award-winning educators. Perfect for musicians ready to enter the professional music industry with practical skills and real-world experience.
Local students: No specific ATAR requirement; Collarts values creativity, passion, and individuality. Year 12 students apply with their creativity; non-Year 12 applicants should have some previous study, work, or life experience. International students must be at least 18 years old at course commencement, have successfully completed a senior secondary school certificate equivalent to Australian Year 12, demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent with no single band below 6.0), and may be required to attend an interview. All applicants participate in an audition showcasing two contrasting contemporary pieces or two original songs, and complete a written music theory evaluation.
Principal Study: Technique Foundations 1 & 2 covering instrumental or vocal performance fundamentals. Ensemble Performance: Ensemble Foundations 1 & 2 focusing on collaborative music-making and group dynamics. Music Theory and Aural: Theory and Aural Studies 1 & 2 developing music analysis and ear training skills. Creative Foundations: Industry Foundations unit connecting students with creative professionals and exploring career pathways, collaboration, and professional practice. Music Technology: Training in industry-standard Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for recording and production. Students also engage in contemporary ensemble performance, songwriting, and music interpretation across their chosen specialisation (vocal, instrumental, or songwriting).
Collarts stands out as a leading creative arts institution with ARIA award-winning faculty who bring real-world industry experience and mentorship. The college emphasizes small class sizes, intensive hands-on training, and a collaborative cross-disciplinary environment. Located in Melbourne's vibrant Collingwood creative precinct, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities including professional auditoriums and recording studios. Collarts' industry-connected approach bridges theory and practice, offering regular performance opportunities, portfolio-building experiences, and direct connections with creative professionals to support career development.
Graduates of the Diploma of Music Performance can pursue diverse career paths in the music industry. Potential roles include Musician or Performer (average salary $80K-$90K), performing live in studios, on media platforms, or at venues; Sound Technician (average salary $50K-$80K), capturing and mixing sound for recordings, live shows, and broadcasts; Music Teacher (average salary $85K-$115K), instructing students in instrumental techniques, theory, and performance preparation; Recording Artist or Songwriter, creating and producing original music; Session Musician, providing instrumental support for recordings and performances; or Music Director, leading musical ensembles. Successful diploma graduates also have the pathway to progress into the Bachelor of Music Performance degree for further specialization and advancement.
Course fee
Start date
You will be redirected to the training provider to enquire directly. Workinitiatives is not the course or training provider. We aggregate and list courses only.