The School of Music is dedicated to providing comprehensive training for students who aspire to become professional musicians. In addition to receiving specialised instruction in performance or composition, students also gain a broad educational experience through the many opportunities that are available to work with fellow students in the other Schools of the Academy.

Students may choose one of the study area in a Western instrument, a Chinese instrument, voice, or composition and electronic music. Apart from its teaching faculty of highly skilled and experienced musicians, the School also has extensive connections with international artists. Over  100 artists visit the School each year to hold masterclasses, give individual tuition, or conduct concerts. Students have been successful in gaining top awards in Hong Kong and international music competitions.

A number of substantial scholarships are awarded to both local and non-local students who demonstrate with outstanding talent, including scholarships from the Society of the Academy for Performing Arts, the ABRSM scholarship each year for the most talented new Hong Kong student entering the BMus programme, scholarships donated by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, and scholarships from other private organisations, professional bodies and individuals. The scholarships fund both new and continuing students.