What are OIC?
The OIC provide short-term fundamental music training to different age groups. The courses are divided into two categories: Instrument Foundation Classes and Workshops.
Instrument Foundation Classes cover various Chinese and Western orchestral instruments at two levels. Foundation I is suitable for absolute beginners of the chosen instrument, while Foundation II is suitable for those who have completed Foundation I or have acquired the playing skills taught in Foundation I.
The Workshop category includes different series, such as online series, music theory series, aural training series, instrumental enrichment series, ensemble experiential series and multi-genre series (including introductory courses on keyboard playing, kalimba, little harp, classical guitar, folk guitar, ukulele, etc).
What is the class mode of OIC?
Instrument Foundation Classes consist of 20 one-hour weekly sessions with a maximum of 7 or 10 trainees per class. Group lessons are also offered under the Workshop category in which the number of sessions, course duration and class quota vary for different courses.
When will the OIC and recruitment take place?
Courses are offered in two phases (each lasting six months) every year. The spring intake runs from March to August and the autumn intake runs from September to February.
Recruitment takes place in early January and early July. Applications are processed by balloting. Courses with remaining quotas accept applications on a first-come, first-served basis in February and August.
Please refer to the Music Office website for the exact application period and application deadline.
Where are the courses conducted?
The courses are conducted at various places across the territory including performance venues managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the music centres of the Music Office, and the Hong Kong Central Library.
How much are the tuition fees?
Taking Phase 53 (Sep 2023 - Feb 2024) as an example, the tuition fee for Instrument Foundation Classes is HK$1,140. As for Workshops, the tuition fees range from HK$175 to HK$1,070. Please refer to the Music Office website for the exact fees.
Successful applicants are required to pay the tuition fee in full. Tuition fees paid are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Are trainees required to bring their own musical instruments to class?
Yes. Trainees must bring their own musical instruments and required materials to class. Rental, loan or storage of musical instruments is not available.
Are there any age or musical proficiency requirements for applicants?
Yes. Each course has a specific age range and, where applicable, musical proficiency requirements.
Are there any interviews or auditions?
No.
Are certificates available upon completion of the course?
Trainees with attendance rates of 80% or above are eligible for “Certificates of Attendance” after the completion of the whole phase. They or their authorized representatives may collect the certificates at the designated music centres during the collection period.
Do trainees have priority in applying to the Instrumental Music Training Scheme (IMTS) upon completion of an outreach course?
OIC and IMTS are operated independently. Youths who wish to apply for IMTS must submit applications and attend auditions, regardless of whether they have attended OIC before.