Objective: The coronavirus pandemic affects all areas of life . Performing arts and music studies have also experienced considerable changes, with university closures and a fluctuating return to normal and more limited operations . Prior studies detail the impact of the pandemic on college students, but we do not yet know what specific consequences it has for music students . The aim of this study is to examine the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on music students' health, practicing behavior, and everyday life .

Methods: In July 2020, we conducted an online survey of 80 students enrolled in performance and music education programs at a German music university and compared these data with data from a survey of 75 students at the same music university carried out in summer 2019 .

Results: The survey revealed that the coronavirus pandemic led to a decrease in practicing hours and an increase of stressful thoughts and feelings . Students were mostly satisfied with Corona-measures taken by the university . Of analyzed determinants, only general fear of health problems was identified as a significant predictor of mental health status . Mental health status did not significantly differ between students surveyed in 2019 and 2020 . Conclusion: Knowledge about the specific challenges the pandemic poses for music students can help conservatories to better respond to the needs of their students . Specifically, this study will inform future measures supporting music students in coping with difficult situations like a pandemic.