Choosing where to apply can be a tricky decision. There are so many conservatoires to think of - so which one is the right one for you?

The first step is to make a list of what you want to get out of conservatoire.

Ideas include:

• specific teachers

• location

• where your musical idol studied

There are many things to consider - applications also cost money, so it is really important that you apply for the ones that resonate with you most. Check out the programmes list on each conservatoire’s website and make sure that your needs are satisfied.

Deciding whether to study abroad is a very tough and serious decision.

For more information on this, check out our studying abroad page.

For most conservatoires you will have to do an audition. This normally consists of a musical performance (if you are a solo musician)/portfolio (for composers), an interview and a written exam.

Before you audition anywhere, make sure you have read the guidelines thoroughly. They may be slightly different for each conservatoire that you audition at, so make sure that you are prepared.

The written exam and interview can seem daunting, so make sure that you have done some practise beforehand. This could include:

• music theory knowledge touch up

• think of some chamber/orchestral/solo mock up concert programmes

• know what you want to get out of the conservatoire (eg. Solo performances, orchestral playing, chamber music)

Ultimately, it is your decision where you apply, and the more you do, the more options you have. There is no guarantee that you will get into all if not any of your desired conservatoires, so do not panic if that is the case. There are many more options that can work for you (eg. A year out to study with different teachers and develop your playing, apprenticeship in music admin/teaching roles).

For most applications, you will have to pay a fee. This makes your decision making even more crucial as this can take quite a high financial burden on you.

Making a list of preferences is a good idea, and then you can limit the conservatoires that match the requirements on your list. If there happen to be a lot that are on there, why don’t you look at alumni and see if any of your musical idols are on there - and you could potentially study where they did!

There will always be a deadline for every application. They may differ between each conservatoire, so make sure you thoroughly read the deals line and write it down.

It would be so devastating to miss the deadline of your favourite conservatoire because you got a detail wrong, so make sure you check this and have all of the necessary information and documentation you need well in advance.

Preparing for an audition can be a stressful thing. For more advice on this, check our audition advice page.

The key thing is to prepare. Conservatoires will want to hear you playing your best, so make sure you check the requirements and choose pieces that suit you best.