The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (MDW)

A legacy of excellence

Top Classical, November 2023

The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (mdw), with its origins tracing back to a charity concert in 1812, stands today as one of the world’s preeminent institutions in the performing arts. Founded officially in 1817, mdw has evolved into a pivotal center for music, theatre, and film education, boasting a rich history and a robust presence in the cultural heart of Vienna.

The university’s expansive campus is home to over 3,000 students from around 70 nations, offering a diverse array of programs across 25 departments. These programs range from traditional instrumental studies to contemporary fields such as acting in the Max Reinhardt Seminar and the Film Academy Vienna. The university’s small student-to-instructor ratio and selective acceptance rate ensure an immersive and personalized educational experience.

Equipped with historic and modern facilities, including the Schlosstheater Schönbrunn and cutting-edge film studios, mdw provides students with world-class resources. This blend of historic charm and modern innovation is a hallmark of the university’s approach to arts education.

Additionally, mdw hosts numerous events annually, from concerts in its concert halls, which marry historical styles with modern acoustics, to opera and theatre performances, and interdisciplinary events. These events not only offer students invaluable performing experience but also demonstrate the university’s commitment to community engagement.

The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna’s significant academic achievements include a noteworthy global ranking, based on its research output, non-academic reputation, and the impact of its notable alumni. With hundreds of academic publications and citations, mdw’s contribution to research in the arts is considerable.

The University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna stands as a beacon of excellence in arts education, harmoniously intertwining a rich historical legacy with the vibrancy of modern pedagogical approaches. It continues to shape the future of music and performing arts, nurturing the talents of students who will carry its legacy forward.