Level A performance examination completed as non-degree studies

Master’s graduates from Uniarts Helsinki’s Sibelius Academy can apply for the right to complete a level A performance examination as non-degree studies.

What is a level A performance examination completed as non-degree studies?

The examination is a study unit completed as non-degree studies. Its content corresponds to proficiency level A, which has been defined for programmes leading to a master’s degree at the Sibelius Academy. The study attainment is not a demonstration of proficiency, or a part of it, and cannot be included in a Sibelius Academy degree in accordance with the decree (794/2004).

You must pay a fee to attend the level A performance examination completed as non-degree studies. The examination is organised by Uniarts Helsinki’s Open Campus, which is responsible for charging the necessary fees that cover the expenses of the proficiency test and the performance examination.

Who can complete a performance examination?

You can complete the level A performance examination if you have completed a master’s degree at the Sibelius Academy. You can also complete the examination if you work in a Finnish military band as a musician and have work experience in the music sector and your application explains how the performance examination is related to your professional development or career advancement in the music sector. 

The applicant must have competence acquired through studies and artistic activities, which gives the skills needed for completing a level A performance examination.

How can I apply for the right to complete a performance examination?

Proficiency test

You must participate in a proficiency test, which may for some instruments also be carried out by using a video recording. The proficiency test is evaluated by a two-member board appointed by a head of department at the Sibelius Academy. The right to complete a performance examination is granted by a head of department at the Sibelius Academy based on a statement given by the proficiency test board. The right to complete the examination is valid for one year. If you apply for organ or vocal music examination, register for a proficiency test by filling out an online form. For other instruments, you can inquire about the right to complete a performance examination at avoin@uniarts.fi.

Proficiency tests to be organised in the 2024-2025 academic year

Vocal music

  • 27 September 2024, registration by 30 August 2024
  • 7 February 2025, registration by 10 January 2025

Organ

  • (Helsinki and Kuopio): video recording 22 November 2024, registration by 25 October 2024
  • (Helsinki and Kuopio): video recording 25 April 2025, registration by 28 March 2025

Performance examination

After an approved proficiency test, we will send you links to the examination registration and repertoire lists. One of the following persons must approve your repertoire: a professor, the chair of the examination board, or the coordinating teacher of instrument, vocal music or conducting.

After the repertoire has been approved, you can register for the performance examination by filling in an online form. You must submit the form at least 8 weeks before the date of the performance examination. You decide which instrument-specific, pre-determined time option suits you best. The producers will reserve the venue and time for the examination based on the registration form. You can also choose to arrange your performance examination outside of the Sibelius Academy’s premises. In this case, speak to the head of the department in question and agree on the venue. You need to indicate the repertoire you will perform in the performance examination in the online form. It will be approved by a professor or the chair of the examination board.

The examination board appointed by the head of the department evaluates the performance examinations. You will get oral feedback from the examination board as well as a certificate signed by the Open Campus for your completed examination.

Fees

The Open Campus charges a fee for participating in proficiency tests and performance examinations. The prices of proficiency tests and a level A performance examinations are determined according to the price list below.

Price list (EUR):
Proficiency test   310  
  
Level A performance examination, Department of Church Music Choral Conducting, Woodwinds, Vocal music, Organ 
Level A performance examination, outside Uniarts Helsinki 645
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre, no stage technology 1030
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre with stage technology1425
  
Level A performance examination, Brass and Percussion (excluding the Horn) 
Level A performance examination outside Uniarts Helsinki 840
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre, no stage technology 1225
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre with stage technology 1620
  
Level A performance examination Horn 
Level A performance examination outside Uniarts Helsinki 1340
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre, no stage technology 2105
Level A performance examination in Helsinki Music Centre with stage technology   2900

The proficiency test and the performance examination are organised at Uniarts Helsinki’s own facilities. Students who wish to organise their performance examination outside of the university’s facilities must book the venue, make the necessary arrangements, and cover the travel expenses of the board, etc. In principle, the performance examination should take place at the Uniarts Helsinki’s place of study. Please contact the Open University Office by email if you have any questions: avoin@uniarts.fi