The Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music, tracing its roots back to the Kyiv Music School, has cultivated a rich legacy in the realm of musical education. Its inception in November 1913 as the Kyiv State Conservatory named after P. I. Tchaikovsky marked a significant milestone in the cultural landscape of Ukraine. Esteemed figures in the musical world such as P. Tchaikovsky and A. Rubinstein acknowledged the school’s endeavors with commendation.
Following a decree by the President of Ukraine on September 5, 1995, the university embarked on a transformative journey, restructuring itself to become the rightful successor to its prestigious antecedent. This evolution underscored the institution’s commitment to advancing musical scholarship and nurturing the talents of aspiring musicians. Today, the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music stands as a beacon of excellence, upholding its esteemed heritage and embracing innovation in the pursuit of musical mastery.
University’s History
The roots of the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music trace back to the Kyiv branch of the Russian Musical Society, established on October 27, 1863, and later renamed the Imperial Russian Musical Society in 1868. The Kyiv Music School was founded in January 1868, evolving from this society. Attempts to elevate the school to conservatory status were made in 1876 by Ludwig Albrecht, in 1891 by Anton Rubinstein, and in 1908 by Oleksandr Glazunov, but the efforts were unsuccessful. It wasn’t until 1913, with support from Serhii Rachmaninov, that the conservatory was finally established.
From 1913 to 1991, the institution underwent several transformations, operating as a music technical school with higher education rights, part of the M. V. Lysenko Music and Drama Institute, and finally as the Kyiv State Conservatory. During World War II, the conservatory partially evacuated to Sverdlovsk and continued operating in Kyiv under occupation. In 1995, it was renamed the National Music Academy of Ukraine after P. I. Tchaikovsky, following Ukraine’s independence. In 2004, students participated in the Orange Revolution, and in 2012, there were discussions about teaching in Ukrainian. During the Euromaidan, the academy supported activists, and in 2020, the founding day was officially recognized as October 27, 1863. The academy has a rich history of adapting to challenging circumstances and remains a pillar of musical education and culture in Ukraine.
Faculties and Departments
- Piano Faculty;
- Vocal and Conducting Faculty;
- Orchestra Faculty;
- Faculty of Folk Instruments;
- Faculty of Historical and Theoretical, Composition, and Foreign Students;
- Interfaculty Department;
- Department of Work with Foreign Students.
Specialties
- Academic Sing;
- Conducting;
- Musical Direction;
- Piano;
- Authority;
- Musicology;
- Composition;
- Folk Instruments;
- Orchestral String Instruments;
- Orchestral Wind and Percussion Instruments;
- Musical Cultural Studies;
- Musical Art;
- Culturology;
- Stage Art.
International Activity
In 2019, the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music (NMAU) embarked on a landmark venture by forging a partnership with the esteemed University of Hengshui in China. The collaboration led to the establishment of a conservatory in Hengshui, where NMAU actively participated in its development. Beyond the creation of this educational institution, the collaboration aimed to enrich musical training programs, foster the growth of musical talents, and provide crucial financial support to ensure the success of the endeavor.
In June 2019, another significant milestone was reached with the inauguration of the Confucius Music Center at the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music, bearing the distinguished name of P.I. Tchaikovsky. Supported by the Headquarters of the Confucius Institute at NMAU and the prestigious Central Conservatory of Music (CCM), the center was designated to serve multifaceted roles. Its objectives encompassed the creation and performance of opera repertoire, educational outreach initiatives, organizing tours and exhibitions, and serving as a prominent hub for research in Chinese music. The center was envisioned as a vital platform for fostering cultural exchange among countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, particularly within Central and Eastern Europe and globally.
In 2023, the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its UNESCO Music Department, marking it as a global leader in music education. This department, the fourth of its kind, facilitates international cooperation and cultural exchange in music. Ukrainian media celebrated it as a pioneering initiative. Since 2023, the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music has been a proud member of Opera Europa, enhancing its commitment to excellence in opera and strengthening its position as a premier institution in music education.
Accommodation
The student accommodation at the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music is meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of its student body. Situated in convenient locations near the main campus, the academy’s dormitories offer a range of housing options tailored to accommodate varying preferences and requirements. Within the university’s dormitories, international students are provided with well-appointed, furnished rooms designed to create a comfortable and conducive living space. In addition to private living quarters, communal areas are strategically integrated into the dormitory layout, serving as hubs for social interaction, group study sessions, and artistic collaboration. The shared spaces are thoughtfully designed to foster a sense of community among residents, facilitating meaningful connections and friendships that extend beyond the classroom.
The Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music prioritizes the safety and security of its students, with round-the-clock surveillance and access control measures implemented throughout the accommodation facilities. Laundry facilities are conveniently available on-site, offering students the convenience of managing their laundry needs without having to leave the premises. Communal kitchens are provided for students who prefer to prepare their meals, promoting independence and healthy living habits. Through its commitment to providing quality accommodation and supportive living environments, the Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music aims to enhance the overall student experience and contribute to the holistic development of its aspiring musicians.