What if the music of the past could be played again as it was originally intended? Here at the Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis der Hochschule für Musik, that’s precisely the goal.
Since 2004, the Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis has stood as a beacon. It shines for the study and performance of early music. But its roots go back further. After the Second World War, the Hochschule für Musik established a tradition of Alte Musik.
Figures like Gustav Scheck and Fritz Neumeyer paved the way. They inspired generations with historically informed performance. Neumeyer even left behind a collection of historical keyboard instruments. They are now housed in the Schloss of Bad Krozingen.
The Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis bundles all aspects of historically informed performance. It also covers interpretation research. Concerts, lectures, and courses take place here regularly. The Präsenzbibliothek holds facsimiles, critical editions, and literature. Its focus lies on interpretation research.
Experimentation is key. The Institut encourages exploring historical instruments and playing techniques. This fresh perspective allows Alte Musik to be understood anew. It has become modern, sparking interest in concert halls.
A notable outcome of this tradition is the Freiburger Barockorchester. Thomas Hengelbrock, Petra Müllejans, and Gottfried von der Goltz founded it. All were students of Prof. Kussmaul. The orchestra enjoys international acclaim. Its concert series are often sold out.
At the Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis, students get hands-on training. They learn about Alte Musik in both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. Artistic work on instruments is central. Ensemble playing and musicology are also important.
The Institut offers close personal support. It shapes students into independent musicians. These musicians can thrive in the world of historical performance. Projects and collaborations offer room to experiment. They also provide opportunities for networking.
Do you want to delve into the world of historical performance? The Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis offers a Master’s program. Essential study areas include Hauptfachinstrument and Historische Aufführungspraxis. Ensemble, Generalbass, and Wahlpflichtmodul are included too.
To gain admission, you will need to prepare an instrumental presentation. It should consist of three works from different eras.
One piece requires special attention for recorder. It needs to be either a self-created diminution of a madrigal. Or it could be an original embellishment of a slow high baroque Italian movement. Another option is an arrangement of a baroque sonata for violin or flute.
For those specializing in historical performance, Generalbass skills are essential. You will need to prepare and perform basso continuo pieces. These pieces must be from the 17th and 18th centuries. One piece will be prepared. The other will be sight-read with a soloist. A Bach solo piece is also required.
A written piece on historical performance is also part of the application. It can also focus on musicology or music analysis. Accepted languages are German, English, and French.
The Institut für historische Aufführungspraxis is more than a place of learning. It is a vibrant center. It fosters a deep appreciation for the music of the past. It ensures that these sounds continue to resonate for generations.