COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Music (MM) in Chamber Music at Wichita State University is a 32-credit-hour graduate program designed to develop highly skilled ensemble performers through intensive applied study, academic coursework, and advanced chamber performance training. All students complete a music theory assessment and are guided into appropriate foundational coursework, with at least half of the total credits required at the 700 level or above to ensure graduate-level academic rigor. Core requirements include MUSC 852 Introduction to Bibliography and Research and either MUSC 829 Practical Application of Tonal Analysis or MUSC 831 Music Theory Pedagogy, which provide essential training in research methods and advanced theoretical understanding. Students also complete 7 credit hours of musicology and theory electives drawn from areas such as musical form and analysis, performance analysis, music in media, popular music studies, aesthetics, global music traditions, identity studies, and advanced seminars in music theory and history, allowing flexibility while maintaining strong academic depth. The program emphasizes applied performance through 10 credit hours of graduate-level applied music instruction (MUSA 732A–Z and MUSA 734A–Z), focusing on advanced instrumental development, interpretation, and technical refinement. In addition, students participate in 4 credit hours of chamber music ensembles, which may include orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz combos, string chamber ensembles, percussion ensembles, and other approved group settings, providing essential collaborative performance experience. Students further deepen their understanding through MUSC 786 Chamber Music Literature I and MUSC 787 Chamber Music Literature II, which explore major chamber repertoire across historical periods and stylistic traditions. A required graduate recital (MUSP 873) serves as the culminating applied learning experience, demonstrating artistic mastery and ensemble performance ability. Students must also pass comprehensive examinations in music theory, musicology, and performance specialization areas. Overall, the program integrates scholarly study and high-level ensemble performance to prepare graduates for professional careers as chamber musicians, performers, and advanced music educators.