Master in Immersive Audio
Shaping the future of sound
Music plays a significant role in shaping our world, stimulating our imagination and broadening our perspective. Recent developments in technology have provided an immense array of new options in translating artistic ideas into reality. To give students the opportunity to delve into these new technological possibilities, the Conservatorium van Amsterdam offers a unique two-year master programme in immersive audio, combining technical expertise with artistic creativity. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in spatial audio technologies while allowing students to specialise in either composing or production in the final year.
Students will gain comprehensive knowledge of creative production in 3D audio, while enhancing their artistic and creative growth. Fostering collaboration across departments and genres, the course encourages students to develop advanced immersive music projects, empowering them to make significant contributions to the music industry by pushing the boundaries of innovation. After two years, students will have developed into creative and versatile professionals with a high level of expertise in 3D audio.
Teachers
Attie Bauw programme coordinator & studio recording
Béla Braack programme assistant
Daan van Aalst classical module
Eran Har Even jazz module
Kody Chambers immersive storytelling module
Kaveh Vares composition
Doris Veldman acoustics
Angelo Boltini Protools
Marcel Wierckx Acousmatic
Ido Zilberman studio recording
Ben Hekkema musical leadership
Hans Nieuwenhuijsen study coach
For whom?
The course is designed for students who want to specialize in 3D immersive audio. Candidates for the programme should already be experienced in audio engineering and bring an endless fascination for sound in any form. Proficiency in using software such as Pro Tools, Ableton, and other professional studio equipment is required.
Learning Objective
A graduate of the Master in Immersive Audio is a highly skilled audio professional specializing in 3D sound design and immersive music production. Graduates excel in techniques such as Dolby Atmos, binaural, and ambisonics, and are proficient in tools like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and SPAT Revolution for both live performances and studio productions. With a strong foundation in music genres ranging from classical and jazz to pop and electronic, they seamlessly combine technical precision with artistic innovation.
Curriculum
The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in immersive audio production and creation, covering both theoretical concepts and practical skills. Each module is designed to equip students with the knowledge and experience necessary to pursue careers in areas such as music production, immersive storytelling, theatre, gaming, VR/AR, and more.
Foundation & Interdisciplinary Modules
The first year consists of six-week modules that introduce immersive production techniques across different genres. Additionally, students take year-long courses that build core skills in acoustics, mixing, production, management, and research.
Specialisation, Research & Capstone
The second year focuses on deep specialisation, research, and a capstone project. By this stage, students have completed all genre-based modules, allowing them to focus on applying their knowledge through research and professional development.
Specialisation Tracks in Year 2
Students choose one of two specialisation directions:
1. Composing for Immersive Audio - Focuses on creating original compositions, sound design, and adaptive music for immersive environments.
2. Production for Immersive Audio - Focuses on advanced mixing, mastering, recording, and tech-nical execution in immersive formats.
Practical Information
Attie Bauw
others to be announced
Admission Requirements
The Master of Music in Immersive Audio s designed for highly skilled and motivated individuals with a strong background in music and audio production. Admission is based on the following criteria:
- A bachelor’s degree (BA) in Music or a closely related field is required.
- Candidates with degrees in sound engineering or music technology (e.g., Abbey Road Institute, SAE, or equivalent) may also be considered.
- Significant experience in audio engineering at a professional level is required.
- Proficiency in in using software such Pro Tools (or main DAW), Ableton, or other industry-standard digital audio workstations is required.
- A demonstrated interest in immersive audio and its applications.
Selection
The selection process consists of three stages:
Stage 1: Portfolio Submission (All Candidates)
Candidates are required to submit the following materials, to be uploaded in the application form:
Motivation Letter (max. 500 words), addressing:
- Personal journey into immersive audio.
- Areas of interest and objectives for the programme
- Career aspirations and how this programme fits into them
- Why you want to study immersive audio at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam
- Detailed CV outlining relevant professional experience and academic background.
Portfolio:
- At least three high-quality stereo recordings demonstrating diverse musical styles.
- Optional: Research proposal outlining a potential immersive audio research project that could be explored during the programme.
Stage 2: Interview & Research Discussion (Shortlisted Candidates – Max. 10-15 candidates)
- Candidates will be invited for a 20-minute online or in-person interview focusing on their motivation, artistic vision, and technical expertise.
- Discussion of potential research topics related to immersive audio within the master’s framework.
- Candidates should demonstrate a clear understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of immersive audio, including its applications in music, film, gaming, virtual reality, and live performance.
Stage 3: Practical Admission Exam (Final Selection – Max. 7 Candidates)
Practical Test at the CvA Studios:
- Candidates will create an ad hoc stereo mix of a pre-recorded 24-track session in Pro Tools within a limited timeframe.
- Candidates will be evaluated on their ability to balance creative and technical decisions under time pressure.
Two separate tests:
- Acoustic mixing challenge (focus on natural dynamics and musicality)
- Technical mixing challenge (focus on spatialisation and audio clarity)
Following the completion of all three stages, successful candidates will receive an official admission offer to join the Master of Music in Immersive Audio.
The selection committee will be composed of three leading professionals from the fields of immersive audio, production, and academia.
Study Load
120 credits
Duration of Study
Two years, full-time
Language of Instruction
English
RIO Code
44739 (M Music)
Title
Master of Music
The master’s programme in Immersive Audio is a track within the Master Music. The quality of this programme has been positively assessed by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). This means that upon successful completion of the programme students will receive an accredited master's degree in Music and the title Master Music. Only accreditated degree programmes are listed in the Dutch central register of higher education programmes (RIO).
