This degree program is designed to provide specialized training in opera performance with graduates gaining more experience and training in all phases of opera production. While the MM in performance degree with a voice concentration provides for some experience with opera performance, the opera performance program provides greater focus with more specialized coursework, training and experience, which better prepares students who are accepted into the program to succeed in this competitive career field. The degree requires 6 more credit hours (total of 38) than the MM in performance - voice concentration.
Admission
Prior to scheduling a live audition, applicants must pass a pre-screening audition. Pre-screening materials should be sent directly to Professor Alan Held (alan.held@wichita.edu) by December 1. Admission to the program is based on the results of a live audition and an interview with the director of the WSU Opera Theatre and voice faculty.
Pre-Screening Materials
- Headshot and resumé;
- A statement of academic and career goals; and
- Four YouTube video recordings showing facility in English, Italian, German and French repertoire of various styles.
Audition Dates
In-person auditions take place in February. Please check with the department regarding live auditions. Applicants should apply to the Wichita State University Graduate School1.
Additional Information
Students admitted to this program must show potential for future success and should have already had some experience with opera. Specific requirements include:
- Strong vocal/operatic vocal potential;
- Good academic background with a minimum 2.750 GPA;
- Some stage experience, including a basic acting class; and
- Ability in at least one of the following languages: French, German or Italian.
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Program Requirements
Students must complete the coursework listed below.
Students entering all MM programs will take a music theory assessment and are recommended to one of two music theory entry courses. The program requires a total of 38 credit hours, at least half of which must be in courses numbered 700 and above, as well as a graduate performance recital, two leading roles in opera productions, and direction and assistance in two productions.
| Course | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Requirements for All MM Programs | ||
| MUSC 852 | Introduction to Bibliography and Research | 3 |
| MUSC 829 | Practical Application of Tonal Analysis | 2 |
| or MUSC 831 | Music Theory Pedagogy | |
| Musicology/Theory Electives | ||
| Select 7 credits from the following courses | 7 | |
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Performance and Analysis | ||
| Topics in Analysis: Music in Media | ||
| Topics in Analysis: Popular Music Analysis | ||
| Topics in Musicology: Aesthetics | ||
| Topics in Musicology: Ethnography | ||
| Topics in Musicology: Gender | ||
| Topics in Musicology: Popular Musics | ||
| Music Theory Pedagogy 1 | ||
| Seminar in Music Theory | ||
| Seminar in Music History | ||
| Opera Performance Requirements | ||
| Graduate voice study — instruction in major medium (applied lessons) | 14 | |
| Applied Music Instruction for Majors - Voice (repeatable) | ||
| Applied Music Instruction for Majors - Voice (repeatable) | ||
| Other Requirements | ||
| Select 10 credit hours from the following | 10 | |
| Opera Literature | ||
| Opera Theatre (repeatable) | ||
| Acting For Singers | ||
| Graduate Recital | ||
| MUSP 873 | Graduate Recital | 2 |
| Total Credit Hours | 38 | |
Examinations
All degree candidates in the School of Music who are not defending a thesis must pass a two-part comprehensive exam: one in musicology/music theory and one which is discipline specific.
Applied Learning
Students in the Masters of Music in opera performance are required to complete an applied learning or research experience to graduate from the program. The requirement must be met by a terminal recital ( MUSP 873) given in their second year.