The M.A. degree program in Performance develops skills similar to those in the undergraduate programs, but on a more advanced level. M.A. programs are tailored to meet the needs of individual students and take into account their experiences in music. This degree program prepares students for careers as performing musicians. Concentrations are available in all orchestral and band instruments, piano, guitar, organ, harpsichord and voice. Students must give at least two recitals and perform in a variety of ensembles. They often have opportunities for outside work as well.

The Music Performance program is focused on the mastery of performance skills. The auditioning student must demonstrate outstanding ability on his or her instrument, and must be highly motivated toward high standards of achievement in performance. The performance faculty and staff work closely with individual students, with the aim of nurturing each musician's technical and artistic growth.

Those interested in pursuing a professional career as a performer often continue directly into graduate study upon completion of the undergraduate degree. The same is true of students interested in securing a position as an applied music teacher at a college or university. Some graduates create their own teaching studios, and become vital and active teachers and performers in their community.

Our faculty are seasoned veterans of the concert stage, whose careers have included performances in the United States, Canada, Russia, Ukraine, Austria, Germany, France, Switzerland, Denmark, Italy, Vietnam, and Brazil. Our faculty have included members of the New York Philharmonic, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, and the New York Met Orchestra, and members of our voice faculty have sung with the New York Metropolitan Opera. Their close ties with New York and international performing and teaching organizations offer students exciting connections the most vibrant music scenes in the United States and abroad.

For more information, contact:

Gina Balestracci, Academic Administrator
Telephone: (973) 655-7219
E-mail: balestraccig@mail.montclair.edu

Audition Information

See course listings from the MSU Graduate Catalog below: