Masters and Doctoral Conducting Programs

GENERAL INFORMATION

The School of Music offers the Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts Degrees in Instrumental Conducting with a Wind Band emphasis.

Recognizing the diversity of many graduate students, we find that students are often interested in Wind Band, Orchestra, Opera, Choral Music, and Musical Theatre. A program can be designed for an individual student to explore several of these areas during the course of a degree program.

The Wind Conducting program explores the philosophy of conducting with emphasis on the development of ones' creativity and individuality. Baton technique, score reading, score study, and rehearsal technique are equally emphasized and explored. The objectives of the conducting program include:

• development of self-awareness as a musician and conductor.
• development of a philosophical foundation of music and conducting.
• developement of score study which involves the synthesis of the elements of music and how they relate to the whole of the musical creation.
• development of effective rehearsal technique: use of time, group psychology, problem solving.
• development of the physical aspects of body language, baton technique, and energy exchanges involved in the music-making process.
• development of verbal and written skills.
• development of an open and positive atmosphere in which students can feel free to express themselves openly and honestly.

Conducting students receive a one-hour studio lesson per week, attend a two hour seminar, and are required to attend all Wind Ensemble rehearsals as well as observe other conductors (faculty and visiting).

All conducting students are given ample podium time with the Symphonic Bands, Wind Ensemble, and Wind Symphony as well as numerous other ensembles within the instrumental studios (chamber ensembles, instrument choirs, etc.). Outstanding students are also selected to conduct in the Musical Theatre program and Opera Theatre.

Course requirements are available through the School of Music Home Page and appropriate links.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Email, write, or phone Prof. Gregg Hanson for initial contact.
   hansong@u.arizona.edu
   520-621-7024
   School of Music
   Rm. 166
   The University of Arizona
   Tucson, AZ 85721
   
   
2. You will be required to submit a video tape of your conducting.
   Tape should be between 10-20 minutes and include rehearsal and performance footage. Along with the video tape, include a copy of your resume' and current repertoire list.
   
   
3. If your video tape is approved, you will be required to come to Tucson for an on-campus audition, interview, and written examination.
   The audition is with either the Wind Ensemble or Wind Symphony, is 30 minutes, and is observed by the Conducting Faculty. Music for the audition is selected from the current repertoire of either ensemble. The written exam includes musical terms, transposition, analysis, and general knowledge of wind repertoire.
   
   
4. Upon acceptance into the program or prior to, you will be required to make offical application to The University of Arizona College of Graduate Studies. Information for this process is reached through the School of Music Home Page.
   
   
5. Campus visits are normally scheduled during the months of February and early March. Deadling for application to the program is March 15 or until positions are filled. Early inquires and auditions are encouraged.