An Overview of the Current Higher Piano Education in Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya (ESMUC) Through the Lens of the Repertoire in the Graduation Recitals

Abstract

This study explores the current state of undergraduate piano education at the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya (ESMUC), focusing on the repertoire performed at ESMUC 2025 graduation recitals, since the institution conceives music as a multidimensional phenomenon and promotes a comprehensive educational approach. The study analyses printed programs from fifteen undergraduate piano graduation recitals. Through inductive content analysis, patterns in composer profiles, musical periods, genres, and Spanish-themed elements were identified, including explicit and inferred data like nationality and stylistic era. Findings reveal that a total of thirty composers were represented across the recitals, with Maurice Ravel and Robert Schumann being the most frequently performed the programs, followed by Russian, French, and Catalan figures. Only one Spanish composer was included, but Spanish-themed works by non-Spanish composers featured. It was also concluded that the concert program was dominated by male composers (93%). Romantic repertoire was most prevalent (59%), followed by 20th-century, with fewer Baroque and Classical works. Character pieces were the most performed genre (52%). The findings suggest that curriculum structure coexists with student-driven repertoire choices reflecting Romantic and early 20^th century styles, expressive performance, and cultural diversity. This study brings light on how repertoire choices in final recitals can reflect not only institutional pedagogical values but also the evolving aesthetic priorities of a new generation of pianists.