Basics of Music (Mupe)

Studying the basics of music, mupe, is part of Music Institute studies, both at the basic level and in advanced studies, along with playing lessons and ensemble music making. At the basic level, mupe is studied for four years (mupe 1-4), and in advanced studies at least two semesters. Basic mupe courses include music theory and solfege (mupe 1-3), and music history (mupe 4). The aim of the studies is to support and diversify the student's musical skills, both in the hobby of playing an instrument, and in other musical activities. The recommended time to start mupe is around 9–10 years old.

Studying the basics of music is supposed to go hand in hand with the instrument playing studies and with the level demonstration performance, so that the studies support each other as well as possible. It is possible, and sometimes even advisable, taking gap years in mupe to keep progress at the same pace. It is possible to replace some mupe studies with, for example, high school music courses, or with basics of music studies completed at a summer camp. Substitutes need always to be discussed with the mupe teacher. Performance marks for Mupe courses are required for the Music Institute certificates.

The basics of music are studied in a weekly group class, and the length of the class is 45–60 minutes, depending on the course.