If all goes as planned, Mumbai will soon get country's first university dedicated to music. Rajesh Tope, Minister for Higher and Technical Education, proposed to Maharashtra Government. The University will be residential and suited to students who want to make a career in music. An official of the department said, 'We are also examining whether a renowned personality in the field of music can head the university.' The university will also house a fine arts department. Graduate, Post Graduate, Diploma and certificate courses will be offered by the university. In addition to Indian classical, semi-classical and Western classical music, students will also be taught painting and sculpting. The faculty will comprise noted personalities in each of these fields.
The site of the university has not been decided yet. 'We expect the report by the end of March and a decision will be taken by April' said S. Kulkarni, an officer of the ministry. Kulkarni further said, 'Music festivals in the state will be organized under the aegis of the university.' Currently Mumbai University offers graduate and post graduate courses in music, including a three-year degree course in vocal music Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Vocal). A two-year diploma course in Hindustani Instrumental Classical Sitar and Hindustani Vocal Light is also offered by Mumbai University. There's a two-year diploma course in Hindustani Instrumental Classical Tabla and two-year post-graduate course in Vocal Music and degree course in Hindustani Instrumental Classical Sitar and Tabla are also offered by the Mumbai University.
