The Department of Traditional Music welcomes young people who, in addition to an interest in folk music, also have the ability to play an instrument or sing, have musical preparation comparable to that of a music school graduate as well as a desire to interpret and teach Estonian folk music. In the Department of Traditional Music, students can learn to play a variety of instruments including the Estonian zither, guitar, violin, mandolin, double bass, talharpa, bagpipes, diatonic button accordion, Jew’s harp, percussion instruments and many others.

The purpose of this curriculum is to train versatile folk musicians who are well-versed in the traditions of folk music and can interpret it in the modern musical language. In addition to speciality subjects, the curriculum also includes ensemble work, music history, solfeggio and music theory, runic song, improvisation and music arranging, among others.

Our curriculum prepares students to pursue further studies at a higher music school or work as a folk musician or folk music teacher. Graduates can continue their studies at the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy, Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre or other higher music schools abroad. Studies conclude with a vocational examination. 

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Students of the folk music speciality must complete the traditional musician curriculum.

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