Course Description

Instrumental Performance is an independent, individually taught course designed for students who wish to develop their instrumental and performance skills while studying abroad. Instruction is available in a wide range of instruments, including instruments of the violin family, brass instruments, piano, saxophone, guitar, percussion instruments, and others, subject to instructor availability.

Unlike Umbra’s regular classroom-based courses, Instrumental Performance consists entirely of one-on-one lessons. Each student is assigned a dedicated instructor who develops an individualized program based on the student’s previous experience, technical level, musical interests, academic needs, and home university requirements. Because instruction is provided individually, this course carries an additional course fee beyond regular tuition.
Lessons are held at Umbra’s partner music school, La Banda degli Unisoni, conveniently located directly across from the Umbra Institute building in the historic center of Perugia. While instruction takes place at the partner school, the course is offered under the academic supervision of the Umbra Institute academic team.
Throughout the semester, students work on technical development, musicianship, interpretation, repertoire, and performance skills appropriate to their instrument and level. At the end of the semester, students will have the opportunity to present the work developed during the course through a public performance, either as a soloist or as part of an ensemble, as appropriate to their individual program.
The course is part of the General Studies curriculum and is taught in English. Interested students should contact the Umbra Institute in advance so that the academic team can confirm instructor availability and help determine the most appropriate individual program based on the student’s instrument, previous experience, level, and expected learning goals.

Course Materials
Handouts, scores, exercises, and other instructional materials will be provided or assigned by the instructor as appropriate to the student’s instrument and individualized program.

Students may be asked to obtain specific scores or other materials when appropriate to their individual course of study.

Course Fee
Because all Instrumental Performance instruction is provided through individual, one-on-one lessons, an additional course fee applies:

• 1-credit course: $500 — 15 contact hours
• 2-credit course: $950 — 30 contact hours

The course fee is in addition to regular program tuition and covers the individualized instruction provided through Umbra’s partner music school, La Banda degli Unisoni.