Music education in Luxembourg is set for a significant reform starting in the 2026/27 academic year, with a stronger focus on practical experience and a new pedagogical structure.
The core change is a complete overhaul of the traditional subject ‘solfège’ (broadly translated as music theory), which will be officially renamed “musical training.” The updated curriculum will prioritise practical application, body movement, and vocal work over traditional classroom theory, aiming to forge a closer connection between students and musical performance.
The reform comes in response to low retention rates. While approximately 11,000 students enroll in music theory annually, only about 12% continue beyond the four compulsory years. While the revised subject will remain compulsory, it will become part of a new five-year core curriculum, available to children from age six.
Teaching methods and materials will be modernised to align with contemporary musical practice. Educators will receive new textbooks and specialised training. Assessment will also change, shifting from two formal jury exams to a single exam supplemented by continuous evaluation throughout the year.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to make music education more accessible and appealing, following the introduction of free tuition for many youth courses in 2022. The overarching goal is to create a more modern, practical, and pedagogically flexible system.
