Through focus on practical conducting skills while integrating the academic areas of theory, history and pedagogy, this degree is designed to prepare the graduate for a career in conducting or teaching, or doctoral study. Conducting opportunities include conducting labs, ad hoc ensembles, and five regular ensembles. We also regularly offer opportunities to study with national and international figures. Recent guests include Peter Phillips, Erwin Ortner, Amy Kaiser, Roomful of Teeth, Charles Bruffy, Markus Utz, and Chanticleer.

Prerequisites 

• Bachelors degree in music (or demonstrated equivalent) 
• GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours 
• Basic keyboard skills 
• Two undergraduate conducting courses 
• Previous conducting experience 
• Proficiency in French, Italian, and German diction 
• Proficiency in vocal pedagogy 

If an applicant does not meet the required prerequisites, then appropriate course(s) may be added to the degree requirements.

Additional Requirements 

• Comprehensive Exam General Info 
• See degree specific guidelines on this page 
• See degree specific guidelines on this page to the right 
• No more than one course with a grade lower than B- may count toward completion of the degree. 
• A minimum of three credits each are required in both theory and history. 
• Electives may be 7000-level or higher music or non-music courses, chosen with consultation with the advisor 
• Two conducting recitals, each 30 minutes in length, or the equivalent in large ensemble conducting appearances.