The Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) has announced the launch of the UAE’s first dedicated higher education institution for music, the College of Music. This strategic initiative aims to enhance Sharjah‘s status as a regional leader in cultural and artistic education.

The College of Music will provide a comprehensive, industry-focused curriculum tailored to equip students with essential technical expertise, artistic vision, and professional skills for successful careers in various music fields. The programs will encompass Western and Arabic music performance, composition, conducting, music technology, musicology, and music pedagogy, ensuring a holistic education that blends tradition with innovation.

Dr. Alexandros Spyrou, the Dean of the College of Music, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating, “The College of Music at SPAA represents a major step forward for music education in the region. Our aim is to nurture a new generation of musicians who will contribute to the rapidly evolving musical landscape of the UAE and the MENA region.” He emphasized the commitment to providing students with a rigorous artistic education that meets high international standards while remaining connected to the region’s cultural fabric.

The new college will feature state-of-the-art facilities including specialized rehearsal spaces, recording studios, and performance venues. Students will benefit from mentorship by internationally renowned faculty and will have opportunities to collaborate across SPAA’s diverse performing arts disciplines.

“With the establishment of the College of Music, SPAA continues its mission to be a centre of excellence for the performing arts,” Dr. Spyrou added. “We are creating a space where students can develop their talent, push their artistic boundaries, and define their artistic identity.”

The College of Music is anticipated to welcome its first cohort of students in September 2025, and applications are currently open for aspiring musicians eager to embark on their educational journey.