COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Music with a conducting concentration requires the completion of 30 credit hours along with a final conducting project that demonstrates advanced leadership, musical interpretation, and performance skills. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in conducting, music education, and ensemble leadership through a combination of conducting instruction, academic coursework, performance experience, and independent study. A central component of the degree is the conducting concentration, which includes three semesters of MUSI 831 Advanced Instrumental Conducting, MUED 883 Instrumental Literature and its Performance, and MUSI 891 Research Seminar. These courses help students develop conducting technique, rehearsal strategies, score analysis skills, repertoire knowledge, and research abilities relevant to professional ensemble leadership. In addition to the concentration courses, students complete supportive academic coursework in music scholarship and theory, including MUSI 865 Introduction to Bibliography, MUSI 894 Theory Seminar, and MUSI 869 Musicology Seminar. These courses provide a strong foundation in music history, theoretical analysis, and academic research methods. The program also includes nine elective credits, allowing students to tailor their studies according to personal interests and professional goals. Elective options may include choral methods, applied music lessons such as graduate voice, cello, or bassoon, musicology seminars, and special studies courses, including participation in large or studio ensembles for up to six credits. While most electives are chosen within the Department of Music, students may select approved courses outside the department in consultation with the Graduate Coordinator. The degree culminates in a conducting recital and/or major conducting performances with one of the university’s principal ensembles. Students must also complete a comprehensive oral examination that includes discussion of recital repertoire, score identification, and questions related to music history, theory, or music education as determined by the examination committee. Overall, the program combines advanced conducting practice, academic study, ensemble experience, and professional preparation to help students develop the artistic, technical, and leadership skills necessary for careers in conducting, teaching, or further graduate study in music.