Music, M.M.
Master of Music
About this program
The Master of Music trains you for professional performance or leadership in music. You build advanced skills in solo, chamber or conducting work. You study through a core curriculum and focus on your chosen area. Every student performs in a large ensemble and finishes with a full recital. This program prepares you to perform professionally, teach applied music or pursue doctoral study.
Program Curriculum and Requirements
Program Scope
The Master of Music degree brings together advanced students and professional faculty in a high-level, collaborative environment. Private studio instruction is at the center of the performance, conducting and composition.
Graduate assistantships and scholarships are available. Graduate conducting students serve as assistant conductors for ensembles.
Areas of emphasis include:
- Classical Solo Performance
- Chamber Music
- Conducting
This degree is particularly appropriate for students intending to perform or conduct music professionally, to teach applied performance in college/university settings or private studio, or to pursue doctoral studies in performance. The program culminates in a formal graduate recital.
Classical Performance Emphasis
Strings, Winds, Brass, Percussion, Voice, Piano, Harp and Guitar
Private studio instruction is at the heart of the performance program. Our faculty of artist-teachers, many of whom perform with the San Francisco Symphony, Opera, and Ballet, work with students to achieve levels of performance suitable for entrance to the world of professional music as performers and teachers or for admission to doctoral-level study. In addition to solo recitals and large-ensemble concerts, high-level performance opportunities also include chamber ensembles coached by the Alexander String Quartet, operas, and concerto competition, and positions in the highly acclaimed chamber choir.
Chamber Music Emphasis
Strings, Winds, Brass, Percussion, Voice, Piano and Guitar
Applied lessons and chamber music coaching with members of our applied faculty form the hub of the master’s degree in chamber music. Electives include secondary instrument or voice instruction, advanced score reading and transposition, and numerous seminars in history and literature.
Conducting Emphasis
Orchestra, Wind Ensemble and Choir
Private studio instruction combined with large-ensemble podium time is at the core of our curriculum, which is designed for preparation for professional conductors and those wishing to continue in doctoral programs. In order to provide maximum conducting experience, this program is kept very small—a limited number of students are accepted into each program at any time. Student conductors typically spend at least one year as assistant conductor of a university ensemble. Students refine conducting and rehearsal techniques in private lessons and seminars as well as conducting and rehearsal techniques, develop score preparation skills, explore literature and continue to develop a broad knowledge of music history and theory.
Please note: The school is currently not accepting applications for the Choir Conducting Emphasis.
Admissions Information
School of Music application requirements include:
- Undergraduate degree with a major in music, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 3.0 grade point average in the last 60 units of undergraduate study.
The following materials should be submitted as part of the application:
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts of all college work
- Writing samples demonstrating graduate level, discipline-specific proficiency in music research
- Statement of purpose
Additional Materials for Music Education
- A written description of the nature and extent of teaching experience.
- Applicants must also provide evidence of at least two years of school music teaching and/or a valid teaching credential.
Additional Materials for Music History
- Representative examples of music research papers, such as those written for undergraduate music history classes.
Additional Materials for Composition
- A minimum of two representative scores and, if possible, recordings of recent musical compositions.
Audition Information for Classical Instrumental/Vocal Performance, or Chamber Music
- Auditions are completed in up to two rounds. Applicants will need to schedule a live audition before members of the Music faculty using the School of Music Audition Form. For applicants unable to travel to San Francisco, submit a high quality Vimeo video link as part of the application. The video should be 30-45 minutes in duration, demonstrating the student's current level of accomplishment. A repertoire list is also required, including an indication of those works on the list which have been performed in recital.
Emphasis in Orchestra or Wind Ensemble
Conducting Auditions are completed in one, sometimes two rounds. After video review, selected candidates will have a follow up zoom interview with Professor Hogarth and in some cases may be invited for a live audition with the SF State Orchestra. Details will be forwarded when appropriate.
- First Round: A streaming video, posted on Vimeo, of a rehearsal or concert. Camera should show a front view of the conductor (camera placed at rear of ensemble) from a reasonable distance, and ideally demonstrate a varied selection of repertoire. Links can be submitted to Professor Brad Hogarth (hogarth@sfsu.edu) and our music office administrator (music@sfsu.edu )
- Please include your name, a repertoire list (with timing numbers), and the performance date.
Fall: June 1
Spring: December 1
Ready to apply? Visit the Graduate Students page to get started.
We’re Here to Help
Questions about the program or how to apply? Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Benjamin Sabey
- Professor/Chair