Portugal is the perfect place for you to study music, develop your knowledge and skills. It is your opportunity to study abroad in a friendly and peaceful European country.
Are you passionate about music and dreaming of studying in Europe? Portugal offers a welcoming and vibrant environment for African musicians looking to expand their knowledge, develop their artistic skills, and experience an international musical education.
Our program is designed to help talented musicians from across Africa access top-quality music education in Portugal, providing guidance on applications, visa process, and integration into the local music scene.
Why Choose Portugal?
Portugal is a culturally rich country with a deep musical heritage, from Fado and classical traditions to contemporary and world music. Studying here offers a unique blend of high academic standards, affordable living, and a supportive community for international students.
World-Class Music Education – Study at a conservatoire, an international music school recognized for its excellence. Our teachers have studied in UK and the US.
Diverse Music Scene – Engage with classical, jazz, rock, blues,contemporary, and traditional Portuguese music.
Cultural Bridge to Europe – Experience a dynamic European environment while maintaining close cultural ties to Africa.
A Warm & Inclusive Country – Portugal is known for its hospitality and openness to African students, you will feel welcomed in Lisbon.
High English Proficiency: Portugal ranks 6th globally in the EF English Proficiency Index, with Lisbon achieving a score of 626, placing it among the top cities worldwide for English proficiency.
Foreign Residents: As of December 2023, there were approximately 184,159 individuals holding citizenship from Sub-Saharan African countries legally residing in Portugal, accounting for about 1.73% of the total population.
Areas of Study
Instrumental Music
EMMA provides instruction in various instruments, including:
Guitar: Electric and acoustic guitar lessons focusing on modern music styles.
Piano: Classes emphasizing contemporary and jazz techniques.
Drums: Courses designed to develop rhythm and performance skills in modern genres.
Bass Guitar: Instruction aimed at building a solid foundation in various modern music styles.
Vocal Studies (Singing)
The vocal program at EMMA focuses on modern singing techniques, including:
Contemporary Vocal Techniques: Emphasis on styles prevalent in modern music.
Performance Skills: Training to enhance stage presence and audience engagement.
Songwriting and Production
EMMA offers courses for aspiring songwriters and producers, such as:
Singer-Songwriter Course: A program where students write and compose their own songs professionally, structured over three levels spanning one to four years.
Music Production Course: A comprehensive course where students compose, produce, and mix their own productions professionally, also structured over three levels spanning one to four years.
The perfect place for a fresh start
Choosing EMMA is not just about advancing your musical education; it's about embracing a transformative experience that offers a fresh start, personal growth, and a broadened horizon. It's an opportunity to redefine your future and pursue your passion in a nurturing and inspiring environment.
Leaving behind a society where economic disparities can permanently hinder personal growth, you have the chance to immerse yourself in a culture that celebrates creativity and individual expression. Portugal's inclusive community provides a nurturing space for you to explore and develop your talents without limitations. Portugal is sometimes called the California of Europe, the southern corner of a continent with a vibrant market. We do have the best food and wine in Europe, not the French, a common myth which is just marketing.
FAQ
Let's explain a few details:
What makes us different?
We have a vast experience with dozens of students from English Speaking African Countries. We are specialized in providing the correct information regarding the VFS VISA process. And once you get to Lisbon, we really care that you learn as if you were studying in the United Kingdom or United States. We are an official music school, with us you will be awarded a diploma at the end of the course.
Who we are
EMMA - Mount Abraham Music School is an official conservatoire, recognized by the Portuguese Republic, part of the National School Network. The school was founded in 2009 by musicians who have studied in the United Kingdom. EMMA is inclusive, and based on humanitarian principles.
Were are we?
City of Queluz is a strategic location ensures seamless connectivity:
Proximity to Lisbon: A short 12-kilometer distance to Lisbon allows for easy access to the capital's amenities and attractions.
Public Transport: The city is well-served by the Sintra Line, with multiple train stations connecting Queluz to Lisbon and Sintra, facilitating convenient travel.
en.wikipedia.orgRoad Access: Major roadways, including the IC19 highway, provide direct routes to Lisbon and other neighboring regions.
Community and Lifestyle
Queluz offers a balanced lifestyle, combining the tranquility of suburban living with the vibrancy of urban amenities. The city features a variety of cafes, restaurants, and recreational facilities, ensuring residents and visitors have access to diverse services and entertainment options.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful environment enriched with history and culture or a well-connected locale close to Lisbon's dynamic offerings, Queluz presents an ideal setting to live, work, and explore.
Do you advice on getting the student visa?
Yes, we offer you a checklist that you must follow to successfully obtain a student visa. We have specialized experienced consultants who will work with you personally to advise you on the correct way to ensure VSF considers you qualified to study with us. Nevertheless, the student is the only one responsible for the VISA application process and its outcome. We do not take care of the process for the student, we do not contact VSF or the embassy on behalf of candidates.
Do I need previous experience?
Yes, you do require previous proven experience in music. If you have studied music, participated in a band, choir, are part of a music organization, participated singing contests, and similar activities and projects.
How much does it cost?
It does get costly. You have to pay the full yearly fees in advance €2250. We charge less than half of what a regular private University will charge you. But the most expensive part is all that VFS Global will require from applicants: 12 x Minimum Salary (12 x €870,00) in your bank account as evidence of economic independence; international health insurance and a few more you must cover. Our consultants will discuss this with you in detail so that you have a plan set right from the start. One thing you must know right from the start, the yearly fees and enrollment are not refundable.
How is the cost of living?
Housing is expensive in Lisbon and surrounding areas. It is best if you have a friend's or relative's house to reside. Renting a single room can be over 400€ per month. If you buy your food at the supermarket you can spend around 200€ minimum per month. Some students get a part-time job at restaurants, that way they earn some and eat at the restaurant. The public transportation network in Lisbon and neighboring cities is very good. You have subway, train and buses. As student you are elegible for a "transportation pass".
I wish to do it. How do I start?
Send us an email with your CV, with a short bio, previous music experience, and personal data, with a photo and Passport copy. Then we will assign a personal advisor to help you with your process.
Just for candidates from English-speaking countries?
Yes, this international program is exclusive for candidates from English-speaking countries who wish to study music in Portugal. Here is a list of countries we work with: Nigeria, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mauritius, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Malawi, Eswatini (Swaziland) and Cameroon.
Join us
This is the place where your musical future begins. You will get a music diploma, the knowledge and skills, the pristine social environment and whether, and be based in Europe for a one year course.