Overview

Candidates must possess and demonstrate an unquestioned gift of musical leadership based upon broad experience with instrumental ensembles.  Advanced orchestration must be included in the program.  Admission requirements include a baccalaureate degree in conducting or performance, accumulated practical experience with instrumental ensembles, and experience equivalent to an undergraduate requirement in orchestration.  Enrollment in this major is only by special permission.  

Admission Requirements

All applicants to the Frost School must submit the following items:

·       An online application

·       Application fee

·       Resume

·       Three letters of recommendation

·       Official transcripts from every post-secondary school attended

This graduate degree program also requires submission of certain supplemental materials, including:

·       Conducting sample

·       TOEFL/IELTS score, as applicable

For more detailed information, please visit our Graduate Admission website.

Curriculum Requirements 

Major Area
Applied Conducting Lessons8
Instrumental Ensembles4
MIP 812Master's Recital1
Select one of the following as a culminating project:2
Master's Recital Paper
Masters Advanced Recital
Other Studies in Music
MCY 728Music Bibliography3
MTC 717Analytical Techniques3
Electives
Musicology or Approved Elective3
Music Education /Pedagogy or Approved Elective3
Approved Electives3
Total Credit Hours30

Plan of Study

Plan of Study Grid
Year One
FallCredit Hours
MIP CD6 Conducting 2
Instrumental Ensemble 1
MTC 717 Analytical Techniques 3
MCY or Approved Elective 3
 Credit Hours9
Spring
MIP CD6 Conducting 2
Instrumental Ensemble 1
MCY 728 Music Bibliography 3
MED/Pedagogy or Approved Course 3
 Credit Hours9
Year Two
Fall
MIP CD6 Conducting 2
Instrumental Ensemble 1
MIP 812 Master's Recital 1
Approved Elective 3
 Credit Hours7
Spring
MIP CD6 Conducting 2
Instrumental Ensemble 1
MIP 815 or 811 Masters Advanced Recital
or Master's Recital Paper
2
 Credit Hours5
 Total Credit Hours30
*

This is a suggested Plan of Study.  Your actual course sequence may vary depending on your previous academic experience as well as current course offerings.  Students should meet with their academic advisor each semester to determine the appropriate course selection.  

Mission

The mission of the Master of Music Degree in Instrumental Conducting is to prepare musicians to enter the music conducting profession and/or pursue doctoral studies. The Master of Music degree program in Instrumental Conducting provides students with opportunities for advanced instrumental study, analysis of style, development of technique and musicianship demonstrated through the ability to conduct ensembles. Our principal focus is on the development of high-level performance skills that will enable a student to pursue a career as a professional conductor/musician.

Goals

The program objectives are:

  • To provide students with the highest quality training possible to bridge academic training into entry-level careers as professional artists;
  • To provide students with performance opportunities that develop and demonstrate the integration of musicianship and performance practice;
  • To assist students with identifying opportunities and preparation for competitions, internships, apprenticeships and other professional venues for the classical artist.

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate advanced technical and musicianship skills as well as the selection of appropriate repertoire adequate for beginning a career as a Secondary School Teacher or College Professor with a Chamber Orchestra or Wind Ensemble.
  • Students will demonstrate advanced technical and musicianship skills as well as the selection of appropriate repertoire adequate for beginning a career as a Secondary School Teacher or College Professor with a Full Symphony Orchestra or Band.
  • Students will demonstrate advanced rehearsal techniques and post-rehearsal assessment and reflection as adequate for beginning a career as Secondary School Teacher or College Professor.