Master of Music in Conducting

In many of the strongest and most reputable Master’s and Doctoral Programs, the focus on analysis of scores, music history, and theoretical knowledge sometimes outweighs time spent on the practical side of being a conductor. While the aforementioned aspects of being a complete conductor are vital, practical experience and mastering the teaching of music is often an afterthought. At SDSU, communication through gesture, the solidification of rehearsal techniques, and recognizing, analyzing and employing effective teaching skills will be a priority. Conductors are teachers. If a conductor cannot communicate to an ensemble gesturally (non-verbal) or verbally, then quality music making will never be attained. Conductors who cannot teach and demonstrate how music can be performed through gesture and non-verbal communication are ineffective. A graduate in conducting from SDSU will be equipped with musical, theoretical, historical, gestural, physical, psychological, philosophical, administrative, and practical knowledge necessary to succeed in a career as a Conductor (Academic, Semi-Professional, or Professional), Music Educator, Church Musician, Choirmaster, Professor of Music or Conducting, or the like. Upon successful admission to the program, each student will assist the Directors of Choral, Orchestral, and Wind Studies with all primary area ensembles (Choral, Orchestral, and/or Wind) as member and/or Assistant Conductor. All students will receive secondary applied study in another conducting area. Students will have the opportunity to assist with undergraduate conducting classes and either be given or expected to create conducting opportunities both on- and off-campus. These opportunities range from chamber music to pit conducting musicals or operas to choral/orchestral concerts presented at local churches or other venues to new music ensembles.