Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA) is a performing arts higher education institution established in 1984 by Hong Kong ordinance. It ranks 10th globally and 1st in Asia for Performing Arts in the 2026 QS World University Rankings. HKAPA is best suited for musicians seeking professional training in a bilingual (Chinese and Western) cultural environment at Asia's top-ranked performing arts institution.

About the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

HKAPA provides professionally-oriented undergraduate education and postgraduate studies across six disciplines: Chinese Opera, Dance, Drama, Film and Television, Music, and Theatre and Entertainment Arts. The School of Music offers a four-year Bachelor of Music (Honours) degree and a one-year Diploma in Music Foundations. Students major in a Western instrument, a Chinese instrument, voice, or composition and electronic music. The academy hosts over 200 concerts each year, providing extensive performance opportunities in solo, chamber music, orchestral, and choral settings. Approximately 90 international artists visit the School of Music annually for masterclasses and individual tuition. The academy's educational philosophy reflects Hong Kong's cultural diversity with emphasis on both Chinese and Western traditions.

Real-World Example

A composition student at HKAPA majors in composition and electronic music, gaining access to studios equipped for both Western and Chinese musical traditions. The student performs in collaborations with other HKAPA schools, including dance and drama productions. Over 200 concerts per year mean performance opportunities are frequent. Students have won top awards in Hong Kong and international music competitions. Substantial scholarships are available from the Society of the Academy for Performing Arts, the ABRSM, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club for both local and non-local students with outstanding talent.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

HKAPA's No. 1 ranking in Asia for performing arts gives graduates credibility across the region. The combination of Chinese and Western music training is rare and increasingly relevant as Asian music markets grow. The four-year BMus program provides more training time than the typical three-year European bachelor. Hong Kong's position as a global arts hub provides networking opportunities with visiting international artists. The 90 visiting artists per year offer masterclasses that would be expensive to access independently. Scholarship funding from multiple sources helps offset tuition costs for talented students.

Drawbacks / Things to Consider

Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world for housing and daily living. Political changes since 2020 have created uncertainty for some international students. The academy's focus on performing arts means limited academic musicology offerings. Non-local students face higher tuition fees and visa requirements. The BMus program is competitive, with limited places for international students. Cantonese language skills are helpful for daily life, though instruction is available in English. Hong Kong's climate is hot and humid for much of the year.

Related Resources

• Music Schools Directory
• Visit HKAPA for more info