Contact

Steven Heyman, Chair, Department of Applied Music and Performance
310 Crouse College, 315-443-1638, sheyman@syr.edu

Description

The M.Mus. degree program in performance is offered with the following emphases: piano, organ, strings, wind instruments, percussion, or voice. All graduate students are required to complete a core sequence of courses in research, music history, and music theory (a total of nine credits). In general most graduate students are required to complete 34 to 36 graduate credits beyond the baccalaureate and normally four semesters in residence. Similar academic patterns and admissions procedures comprise each program for the M.Mus.: 8 credits in the major, 3 credits in music history, 3 credits in music theory, 3 credits in research, 2 credits in recitals, and the remainder to be taken in special courses for various emphases and in music literature, music electives, or free electives (varying according to emphases).

The program promotes the attainment of high levels of performance and a solid grasp of general musical knowledge, as demonstrated by the following: a two-part terminal project for the performance degree in which the candidate performs in two major public appearances. One is a solo recital; the second may be another solo recital, an ensemble recital, a performance of a major concerto with orchestra, or a lecture recital on a subject relevant to the student’s major instrument. Written and oral comprehensive examinations must be completed during the final semester. Convocation attendance and ensemble participation are required for all full-time graduate students.