MM - Conducting Concentration
The Master of Music (MM) degree, conducting concentration, is designed to accommodate a small number of students (up to four per year) who receive extensive individualized conducting preparation with the university’s resident band and orchestra conductors. Candidates have rehearsal/conducting opportunities with both large and small ensembles.
Admission
Students must have completed a baccalaureate degree in music. Contingent upon admission into the conducting program and the approval of the appropriate conducting faculty member, all candidates should be prepared to:
- Complete a satisfactory conducting audition conducting a university ensemble;
- Perform on their primary performing instrument;
- Demonstrate their understanding of score analysis; and/or
- Complete a personal interview.
Program Requirements
The MM degree requires completion of a minimum of 32 graduate credit hours, including a thesis or recital as indicated for the respective concentration. In addition to the core requirements for all MM concentrations, the program culminates in a conducting recital using university students and ensembles. Metropolitan or ad hoc ensembles may be substituted with faculty approval.
Each plan of study must include 12 credit hours in the MM core requirement, including:
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Required for all MM Concentrations | ||
| MUSC 852 | Introduction to Bibliography and Research | 3 |
| MUSC 830 | Seminar in Music Theory | 3 |
| Select 6 credit hours from the following in history and theory: | 6 | |
| Topics in Music Analysis | ||
| Seminar in Music History pre-1750 | ||
| Seminar in Music History post-1750 | ||
| Courses Required for Concentration | ||
| Approved Electives | 6 | |
Music or nonmusic courses 500 or above; May include applied lessons, ensembles, languages, etc. Courses must be approved by faculty advisor | ||
| Approved Ensembles — conducting observation laboratories assigned by major advisor | 4 | |
| Wind Ensemble (repeatable) | ||
| Orchestra (repeatable) | ||
| Symphonic Band (repeatable) | ||
| Concert Chorale (repeatable) | ||
| Other Requirements | ||
| MUSP 790C | Special Topics: Conducting | 2 |
| MUSP 790R | Special Topics: Score Analysis | 2 |
| MUSP 790K | Performance Practicum | 2 |
| MUSP 790AD | Rehearsal Techniques | 2 |
| Graduate Conducting Recital | ||
| MUSP 873 | Graduate Recital (repeatable) | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours | 32 | |
Examinations
All degree candidates in the School of Music must pass an oral comprehensive examination. The oral comprehensive examination for thesis candidates includes a thesis defense.
Applied Learning
Students in the Master of Music - conducting concentration are required to complete an applied learning or research experience to graduate from the program. The requirement can be met by a terminal conducting recital ( MUSP 873) given in their second year.