The department holds strict teaching and quality improving as the permanent theme in daily work. It offers specialized courses, ensemble classes, and chamber music classes in the fields of string (violin, viola, cello, double-bass), woodwind (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon), brass wind (trumpet, French horn, trombone, and tuba), and percussion.

The department attaches much importance to the teaching principle of "going out and inviting in". In order to be aware of the latest tendency of the forward position of academia, it often invites foreign experts and professors to give lectures, and holds concerts so as to build strong academic atmosphere.

For many years, a big number of excellent graduates, who possess extraordinary performing skills, have been employed by China Symphony Orchestra, China Philharmonic Orchestra, Central Opera House, the Symphony Orchestra of Central Opera and Ballet House, China Opera and Ballet House, the Symphony Orchestra of the Song and Dance Ensemble of the General Political Department, the Military Orchestra of the People's Liberation Army, the Orchestra of China Film, Beijing Symphony Orchestra, Tianjin Symphony Orchestra, and colleges.