Specially designed for Music students, this program allows you to explore music history and performance in a city internationally recognized for its historical role in the development of classical music. This program includes a one-day field trip and a weekend field trip to destinations related to that summer’s Music History course topic plus six individual lessons, coaching, and participation in our recital hall for performance students.
Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
Study in a city recognized around the world for its influence on the development of classical music. Vienna has been home to many of history's greatest composers, and to this day, the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, the Musikverein, and the Staatsoper continue to help make Vienna a true "city of music." As an important crossroads between North and South, East and West, this city became a natural melting pot for new ideas. Out of this cultural richness has emerged a wealth of artistic accomplishments and innovative thinking—a heritage that we explore in our summer programs.
Going away is brave. A reflection on studying abroad, courage, faith, and becoming yourself while stepping into a new life far from home.
Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. Specially designed for Music students, the Vienna Summer Music Program allows you to explore Music History and Music Performance in a city internationally recognized for its historical role in the development of classical music.
You'll enroll in two to four courses in Music History, Performance Studies, and/or German language for a total of 6-10 credits (an extra fee applies for students taking more than 6 credits). German language instruction is optional, and beginning German is available for students with less than one year of college-level German.
Music History (optional, 3 credits)
The Music History component focuses on different topics and periods rooted in the rich musical tradition of the city, such as the Biedermeier Era, the late 19th century and Fin-de-Siècle, Second Viennese School and the Early 20th Century, or the Viennese Classical Period.
Vocal & Instrumental Performance Workshop (optional, 3 credits)
The Music Performance Workshop (MS390) allows you to expand your repertoire and performance skills as you immerse yourself in the cultural surroundings and performance traditions of Vienna. You must audition to participate.
In addition to group sessions and lectures, the performance studies component includes individual technical training (up to six hours of private instruction is included in the program fee) and participation in master classes. The concluding event of the summer is a public concert held in the Baroque performance hall at the IES Abroad Center.
Individual Performance Studies (optional, 1 credit)
You'll have private lessons ideally suited to your needs as a performer—six hours are included in the program cost.
German Language Study (optional, highly recommended, 3 credits)
The program allows you to study the German language at the beginning and intermediate levels. Part of the German language curriculum covers topics related to music and musical terms.
NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
| Course name | Term | Language | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| GR 101 - German Language in Context: Novice Abroad I | Summer | German | 3 |
| GR 201 - German Language in Context: Novice Abroad III | Summer | German | 3 |
| GR 301 - German Language in Context: Emerging Independent I | Summer | German | 3 |
| GR 351 - German Language in Context: Independent Abroad I | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
| GR 403 - German Language in Context: Emerging Competent Abroad III | Fall, Spring | German | 4 |
The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
The IES Abroad Vienna Center is an elegant, early 18th-century palace called the Palais Corbelli, and is in a bustling central part of the city. Whether you’re visiting any number of the museums, taking in a show at a historic theater, or finding a park to study in, the Center is your study abroad hub.
Studio – Live in your own one-room studio apartment with a full-size bed, private bathroom and study space. Other amenities include a gym, WiFi, on-site laundry, bike share, and more."
Shared – Shared apartments offer fully furnished spaces for students and 2-6 roommates. The classically Viennese shared apartment comes equipped with 1-2 twin beds per bedroom, WiFi, access to laundry, and a shared kitchen, bathroom, and common space. You may live with a Vienna Cultural Assistant (VCA).
We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
The first excursion of the semester with IES Abroad Nantes was to three 16th-century castles of the history Loire valley.
At the dawn of the new year, I put together a vision board, as I do every year. This time, however, next to my magazine cut-outs and carefully curated stickers...
Go through the first week abroad with me!
