The content of the studies

The pupils follow the advanced or the general syllabus for basic education in the arts. The advanced syllabus corresponds to a traditional, generally longer journey through the music institute, and the general syllabus corresponds to a shorter one. The quality of education offered in both syllabi is equal, and the education aims to give each pupil the best possible skills in musicianship. If necessary, a pupil can apply to change their instrument and/or the syllabus.

The structure of the syllabi and the number of hours contained

Advanced 1,300 hours

Provides the pupil with the skills needed to practise music independently and to apply to professional studies.

  • Core studies 800 hours
    Beginner studies
    Core studies 1
    Core studies 2
    Core studies 3
    Core studies 4
    Core studies 5
  • Specialised studies 500 hours
    Specialisation options:
    Emphasis on instrumental
    Emphasis on ensemble
    Combined instruction

General 500 hours

Provides the pupil with the skills needed to practise music.

  • Common studies 300 hours
    Instrument studies 1
    Instrument studies 2
    Instrument studies 3
    Instrument studies 4
    Instrument studies 5
  • Theme studies 200 hours
    During or after common studies: optional studies (musical perception, ensemble playing)

Advanced syllabus

Pupils in the advanced syllabus instruction receive a weekly lesson on their main subject (instrument or singing), ensemble playing (orchestra or other groups), and starting from age 10, a lesson on musical perception to support the pupil’s playing. Independent practice is an required part of the studies.

Curriculum (advanced, in Finnish)

General syllabus

Pupils in the general syllabus instruction (includes Suzuki instruction) receive a weekly lesson in their main subject either privately or as a part of a group. Additionally, the pupil can choose an ensemble group and/or a lesson on musical perception.

Curriculum (general, in Finnish)

Ensemble playing

Playing or singing together with others, also known as ensemble playing, is an essential part of the studies from the beginning. PMO has many orchestras, bands, and other small groups. Find information on the groups here.

Musical perception

Pupils start lessons on musical perception at age 10. The purpose of the lessons is to support the pupil in learning their main subject and to improve their knowledge and skills in the following areas:

  • reading and writing music
  • understanding music
  • knowledge on music history and the different genres

Courses belonging to the advanced syllabus are divided into five years. The courses are:

  • musical perception 1/5
  • musical perception 2/5
  • musical perception 3/5
  • musical perception 4/5
  • musical perception 5/5

Find the contents of the courses here. Pupils in the advanced syllabus also have the possibility to deepen their knowledge with optional courses when they reach their specialised studies.

Musical perception is taught in group instruction, and each course lasts for 1–2 years.