Unique in Switzerland: our bachelor’s programme in Folk Music
Follow the traces of a unique cultural heritage: Swiss folk music. The only university-level institution offering this bachelor’s programme, we are looking forward to enhancing your skills and knowledge in all areas of Swiss folk music.
Our lecturers include folk music luminaries such as Markus Flückiger, Andreas Gabriel, Christoph Pfändler and Nadja Räss. They help you to realise your musical ambitions at the highest level and prepare you for teaching activities later in your career.
Studies in Folk Music – tailored to your needs
It being unique in Switzerland is not the only thing that makes this programme special; it is also tailored to the students’ level of skill and knowledge. It has two aims: to teach broad, yet profound knowledge of Swiss folk music – for instance through ensemble and theory classes that complement the primary subject – and to support the students on their individual paths towards becoming accomplished musicians. The curriculum is continually being enriched with international folk music.
The Bachelor of Arts / Folk Music is open for typical folk music instruments (Schwyzerörgeli, tympanon, accordion, yodel) and folk music-adjacent instruments (violin, double bass, clarinet, piano). Less typical instruments might be considered for admission. Depending on the students’ technical proficiency, some of the modules in the primary subjects might be converted into technical tuition.
The lecturers rank among the most notable figures in the Swiss folk music scene which, in turn, is strongly influenced by their work. They constantly create new impulses, but also share their in-depth knowledge of old, traditional folk music. The programme features regular guest slots for notable Swiss and international folk musicians.
Folk Music at the Lucerne School of Music – the perfect blend of theory and practice
With its in-depth and practical content, the programme aims to give the students a comprehensive understanding of Swiss folk music. The bachelor’s programme’s first-year theory modules, which can be selected from the Jazz or Classical profiles, form the basis.
Starting in the second year, the theory taught is specific to folk music, and encompasses, among other things the study of folk music arrangements and composition, and modules on the history of folk music. In addition to modules in the primary and secondary subjects, the practical course units include classes on improvisation (playing by ear).
Students have the opportunity to show their skills on stage by playing together in the «Alpinis» ensemble, the Lucerne School of Music’s folk music formation led by Andreas Gabriel. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for folk music enthusiasts.
Our teachers in the Folk Music profile of the bachelor’s programme
Our lecturers aren’t just long-standing virtuosos of the Swiss folk music scene, they are also incredibly skilled at passing on their knowledge. National and international guest lecturers are added to the circle of teachers at regular intervals.
