Master of Music Studies (Opera Performance)
What you’ll study
Our opera studies course at graduate level offers intensive focus on:
- core operatic skills in singing,
- languages,
- role preparation and repertoire,
- stagecraft,
- acting,
- dance,
- ensemble,
- opera history and
- theatre studies.
Two staged operas with orchestra per year are ideal opportunities for you to immerse yourself in all aspects of the craft of opera, and to acquire experience in singing entire roles.
For current students, refer to the latest faculty handbook
Fees
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Mandatory for course entry
Admission requires:
- a master's degree in an appropriate discipline as determined by the Sydney Conservatorium of Music; or
- a pass bachelor's degree with a credit average, or an honours bachelor's degree from the ±¬ÁÏÍõ, or equivalent qualification in an appropriate discipline as determined by the Conservatorium; or
- an award of graduate diploma from the ±¬ÁÏÍõ, or equivalent qualification in an appropriate discipline as determined by the Conservatorium; or
- completion of the requirements of the embedded graduate diploma in this discipline from the ±¬ÁÏÍõ, or equivalent qualification; and
- successful completion of an audition.
Available places will be offered to qualified applicants in the order in which complete applications are received, and according to the admissions criteria.
Applicants who do not have a recognised tertiary award but who demonstrate an equivalent musical ability and maturity at the audition and interview, and who can show considerable performing experience may be admitted.
English language requirements
Mandatory for course entry
You may need to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study with us. Find out which requirements are applicable to you below:
How to apply
Before applying
Entry to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music is by both university application and audition. There are three steps to apply.
Please read about the postgraduate pre-admission and audition requirements below before applying.
Entry to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music is by both university application and audition. There are three steps to apply.
Please read about the postgraduate pre-admission and audition requirements below before applying.
All prospective students for all Sydney Conservatorium of Music Higher Degrees by Research must first lodge an Expression of Interest notice via the form link below.
As part of your expression of interest, you will be asked to upload:
- A preliminary research proposal of at least 1500-2000 words that outlines your subject area, objectives, introductory literature review, method proposed, significance and schedule of your proposed research project. For tips on writing a compelling research proposal, ;
- A one-page CV;
- Supplementary evidence of expertise (i.e. music scores, links to past performances, samples of academic writing)
We aim to respond to expressions of interest within 30 days of receipt.
If your expression of interest is successful and you are asked to submit a full application, you will need to
- Obtain two academic referee reports, each one written by a referee who is familiar with your previous academic achievements. We recommend using our (pdf, 114KB) for the referee reports; and
- Submit your application along with your research proposal, CV, academic referee reports, academic transcripts, supplementary evidence of expertise; evidence of agreement from two supervisors to support your project; and other supporting documents such as identification and evidence of residency status as required by the admissions team.
Audition key dates
Auditions for live instrumental and voice occur in the July and September NSW school holidays for entry into the following academic year.
Auditions Round 1 |
Registration Deadline |
|---|---|
Live auditions - 6 to 10 July 2026 (Excludes Opera Performance - offered in round 2 and 3 only) |
28 June 2026, 11:59pm |
Jazz (by video audition only for round 1) |
28 June 2026, 11:59pm |
Collaborative Piano Video Submissions |
1 June 2026, 11:59pm |
Conducting Video Submissions |
1 June 2026, 11:59pm |
Auditions Round 2 |
Registration Deadline |
|---|---|
Live auditions - 28 September to 2 October 2026 |
13 September 2026, 11:59pm |
Collaborative Piano Video Submissions |
31 August 2026, 11:59pm |
Conducting Video Submissions |
31 August 2026, 11:59pm |
Auditions Round 3 |
Registration Deadline |
|---|---|
Live auditions - 1 to 2 December 2026 (audition schedules open 12 October 2026) |
15 November 2026, 11:59pm |
Collaborative Piano Video Submissions |
1 November 2026, 11:59pm |
Conducting Video Submissions |
1 November 2026, 11:59pm |
Submit application
Step 1: Apply to the ±¬ÁÏÍõ
Submit your course application to the ±¬ÁÏÍõ by clicking 'Apply now'. You will receive a ±¬ÁÏÍõ application number - keep this handy, as you will need it in Step 2.
Domestic applicants apply via , International applicants apply directly to the ±¬ÁÏÍõ.
Step 2: Register your audition via the Acceptd portal
All applicants must register an audition and/or interview through , the Conservatorium's official audition system. You will upload audition files, book a time, and pay a registration fee (US$30).
Step 3: Prepare your audition and/or portfolio
Check your email for confirmation of your audition or interview date. Then prepare using the Audition Guide:
- Download the Postgraduate Audition Guide (English, PDF)
- Download the Postgraduate Audition Guide (Simplified Chinese, PDF)
The guide details audition requirements and repertoire expectations for each program.

