To earn a master’s degree in music, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in music or a related field, then complete the required coursework for the master’s degree. You should think about where you want to do your master’s coursework while finishing your bachelor’s degree, because getting into a graduate program can take a long time. It’s also a good idea to think about a specialization or a focus you’d like to pursue. To get your master’s degree in music, you’ll probably have to do some kind of research or perform a recital.
A master’s degree in music usually comes in one of two flavors, each with its own set of specializations and variations. A Master of Music (MM) or a Master of Arts (MA) in music or a related field is a degree that focuses heavily on performance and understanding of musical theory and pedagogy. To be eligible for either type of master’s degree in music, you must first earn a bachelor’s degree in music, performing arts, or a related field.
You will need to apply to graduate schools while working on your bachelor’s degree in order to be admitted and pursue your master’s degree in music. Some tests, such as the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), may be required, though this is not always the case. Consider three or more professors and musicians who can write letters of recommendation for you. It is often preferable to apply early to graduate programs in order to ensure that you will be accepted and able to pursue your degree on time.
The Master of Music degree is usually a two- or three-year program that emphasizes musical theory and performance. For this type of master’s degree, many schools offer a variety of concentrations, including conducting, piano performance and pedagogy, music history, and composition. To complete an MM program, you will most likely be required to complete either a research project, such as a master’s thesis, or a performance to demonstrate your knowledge.
An MA in music is a master’s degree in music that can focus on musical performance and theory, as well as being used to pursue a doctorate in music education. If you want to teach music, for example, you should pursue a master’s degree in music education. To demonstrate your knowledge and mastery of music, you will most likely be required to complete either an extensive research project or a performance.