Founded on a strong historical tradition within the Conservatoire, the String trajectory (of the specialization Instrument / vocal studies) provides an ambitious and inspiring environment for young, motivated violinists, violists, cellists, and double-bass players and also hosts the only Postgraduate Suzuki in Europe.
The excellent, dynamic, and experienced teaching staff represent the major string traditions both within Belgium and internationally. Students receive intensive coaching in developing technical proficiency within diverse specialisations and styles, and the development of expressive individuality, an inherent artistic vision and a thorough mastery of the instrument are the central focus points. Solo playing skills are developed in tandem with flexibility, the ability to work in a team, discipline and a results-driven approach, all with an active link to performance practice and the profession.
During the bachelor’s and master’s programme, the student is presented with numerous opportunities to broaden his or her experience and artistic skills, including masterclasses with top soloists and concertmasters from the national and international orchestral world such as Anton Steck, Pavel Vernikov, Dora Schwarzberg, Sigiswald Kuijken, etc. Orchestral and ensemble projects (including symphonic orchestras and string ensembles) and chamber music are supplemented with interdisciplinary and creative projects with artists from other disciplines. Audition training, active collaborations and short courses with external professional orchestras and internationally-renowned groups mean that the profession is literally brought into the student’s training.
The central focus over the course of the whole study programme is the development of the individual professional profile of each student, using his or her interests, talents, vision and individuality as the point of departure. By combining strong individual coaching with numerous and diverse experiences and projects, we prepare each and every student for an active role in international, professional music life; either as an orchestral musician, soloist, chamber musician, creative talent, teacher or a combination of all of these.
The Royal Conservatoire Antwerp is the only academic institution in Europe that offer a postgraduate in Suzuki method. The goal is to educate the next generation of Suzuki educators (you will obtain certificate 1 till 5 of the European Suzuki Association). This programme is internationally orientated and is tought in English.
The String Instruments department includes the instruments viola, cello, double bass and violin.