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 excursions related to the course topics plus six individual lessons, coaching, and participation in our recital hall for performance students.
Summer - Music History & Performance
At a Glance
Program Dates:
- Summer 2026: May 20 - July 04
Credits:
Estimated Cost:
Visa Required:
Housing:
Language of Instruction:
Language Prerequisites:
About the Program
Program Advisor
Alicia Emerich
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!
About the Destination
Why Vienna?
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.
The Student Experience
"Like Learning a Third Language": the Reality of Studying Music Abroad
Being able to expand your musical studies and horizons with study abroad is a fantastic opportunity, but it may not always be one that offers easy adjustment.
Program Dates
Summer 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Academics
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.
Courses
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.
IES Abroad Courses
German Language (5)
| 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 |
Requirements
- 18 years of age
- In good standing at your home school
- 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
- Sophomore, junior, or senior standing when program begins
- Music major or minor preferred. In the case of non-music majors/minors with serious experience, some exceptions can be considered. All applicants must have at least one year of study in music theory or the ability to read music and follow a score.
About the IES Abroad Center
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.
IES Abroad Vienna Staff
Housing
Vienna Housing
Studio – You will live in your own one-room studio apartment with a full-size bed, private bathroom and study space. Other amenities include a gym, WiFi, washers, dryers, bike share, and shared kitchen space.. No meals are provided for this housing option.
Shared Apartment – Share an apartment with fellow students in Vienna. Our fully furnished apartments can accommodate up to five roommates and are equipped with 1-2 twin beds per bedroom and WiFi. You will have access to washers, dryers, a shared kitchen, and bathroom, as well as common areas designed for socializing and relaxation. No meals are provided for this housing option.
Program Cost
Summer 2026
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
$7.9 Million in Scholarships & Aid
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.
Orientation
Health & Safety
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.
PRO-TIP
Apply for your passport today!
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
Contact a Previous Student
Student Ambassadors
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.
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