The mission of the Mead Witter School of Music is:
- to provide a rich, integrated program of undergraduate and graduate education that promotes the highest levels of professional, creative, and scholarly development while challenging students to achieve their greatest potential;
- to cultivate an environment that inspires creativity, stimulates intellectual curiosity, and fosters critical thinking; and
- to serve the university community, the public, and the profession through performance, composition, scholarship, music education, outreach, and engagement.
The Mead Witter School of Music enriches students' educational experience by hosting guest artists and scholars for master classes, recitals, colloquia, seminars, and festivals. Its performing organizations and ensembles perform more than 350 recitals and concerts every year, making a significant contribution to the cultural life of the university and the wider Madison community.
Mead Witter School of Music views its goals and objectives as complementary to those of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, which include "to provide an environment in which faculty and students can discover, examine critically, preserve and transmit the knowledge, wisdom, and values that will help ensure the survival of the present and future generations with improvement in the quality of life."
The University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) and has been an institutional member of NASM since 1966.
Degrees and Majors
The MM–Music: Performance degree offers tracks for many major specialties, instrumental and vocal. Each degree pathway varies slightly, and details are provided in the course lists available through the Requirements tab. Faculty members in the appropriate area designate a major professor for each new student the first semester of enrollment. Whenever possible the faculty strive to match the student with the major professor if the applicant to the program has indicated a preference.
Students normally take four semesters (two calendar years) to complete the degree requirements, including the final recital. There are two committees of faculty that assess the student's achievement of learning outcomes: the recital committee and the examination committee. The student consults with the major professor to determine the membership of the recital committee. The examination committee administers the comprehensive examination in the final semester in which the student fulfills course requirements. More details are accessible through the Policies tab or in the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook, which lists all academic policies and procedures in music graduate programs. All students need to be familiar with the Graduate School's Academic Policies and Procedures.
Mentoring of students is of prime importance to faculty members at Mead Witter School of Music. The faculty advisor and the director of graduate studies both guide the student's course planning. While each faculty member has a unique style, every student can be assured of abundant time working closely with more than one mentor in addition to the advisor during the course of a UW–Madison degree program. Take some time to access the Overview tab and review the Mead Witter School of Music mission statement, as well as the information available through the Learning Outcomes tab. These offer a glimpse of the values shared among the faculty and staff. The MM–Music: Performance degree offers tracks for many major specialties, instrumental and vocal. Each degree pathway varies slightly, and details are provided in the course lists available through the Requirements tab. Faculty members in the appropriate area designate a major professor for each new student the first semester of enrollment. Whenever possible the faculty strive to match the student with the major professor if the applicant to the program has indicated a preference.
Admissions
Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.
Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online.
| Fall Deadline | December 1 |
| Spring Deadline | The program does not admit in the spring. |
| Summer Deadline | The program does not admit in the summer. |
| GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) | Not required. |
| English Proficiency Test | Every applicant whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not exclusively in English, must provide an English proficiency test score earned within two years of the anticipated term of enrollment. For international students who completed a degree at a US institution, the Mead Witter School of Music requires English proficiency test scores that meet the Graduate School minimum requirements. Refer to the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions website for information on minimum score requirements: https://music.wisc.edu/graduate-admissions/. |
| Other Test(s) (e.g., GMAT, MCAT) | n/a |
| Letters of Recommendation Required | 3 |
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in music (or equivalent foundational coursework). Admission to the MM program requires a high level of performance ability as demonstrated in the live audition. No audition is required for the composition degree. For details on specific audition requirements and additional application materials, please visit the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions website.
Funding
Graduate School Resources
Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid. Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.
Program Resources
Through the generosity of Paul J. Collins, the Mead Witter School of Music is the recipient of a substantial fellowship fund which, in combination with the Graduate School and University Foundation, allows the school to offer multiple-year funding to the highest quality graduate students in performance. The Collins fellowships, along with the Lorna Wendt and Anonymous Fund Fellowships for Choral and Voice students, are offered as Wisconsin Distinguished Fellowships and provide full tuition and fees, a generous stipend, additional funds, and comprehensive health care. The top candidates of the audition season will be nominated for these opportunities. The Mead Witter School of Music offers teaching assistantships in music history, music theory, music education, piano, conducting, voice, and other performance areas. These positions offer tuition remission plus a salary and health care benefits. In addition, the Mead Witter School of Music nominates qualified applicants for Graduate School Fellowships. Many students also take advantage of work-study opportunities on campus, and many are employed part-time in area musical organizations or business entities. Feel free to direct questions about any of these funding opportunities to the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu.
Minimum Graduate School Requirements
Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements, in addition to the program requirements listed below.
Major Requirements
Mode of Instruction
| Face to Face | Evening/Weekend | Online | Hybrid | Accelerated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | No | No | No | No |
Mode of Instruction Definitions
Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.
Evening/Weekend: Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules. Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.
Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.
Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats. Contact the program for more specific information.
Online: These programs are offered 100% online. Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.
Curricular Requirements
| Minimum Credit Requirement | 34 credits |
| Minimum Residence Credit Requirement | 16 credits |
| Minimum Graduate Coursework Requirement | 17 credits must be graduate-level coursework. Refer to the Graduate School: Minimum Graduate Coursework (50%) Requirement policy: https://policy.wisc.edu/library/UW-1244. |
| Overall Graduate GPA Requirement | 3.25 GPA required. |
| Other Grade Requirements | Grades below B cannot count toward meeting degree requirements. Mead Witter School of Music financial awards are suspended if a student is on probation for more than one semester. A student’s satisfactory progress is also in jeopardy should a major recital be judged incomplete or deficient. Failure of one or more parts of the comprehensive examinations is also considered a lapse in satisfactory progress. |
| Assessments and Examinations | In addition to evaluations in individual classes, School of Music programs examine graduate students at defined points in their career. For master’s students, comprehensive examinations measure the candidate’s range of musical knowledge in both fields of music history and the major. |
| Language Requirements | The Vocal Performance curricular path has language requirements detailed below. |
Required Courses
The following chart outlines the course requirements for all of the available MM in Music Performance pathways. Note that each one has particular requirements. Important academic policy information is available through the Policies tab, in the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook, and in the Graduate School's Academic Policies and Procedures. Direct any questions about the coursework or required proficiencies to the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu.
Brass Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Brass Instrument Applied Study | 8 | |
| Select the course corresponding to the major instrument (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester) | ||
| Masters Level-Horn | ||
| Masters Level-Trumpet | ||
| Masters Level-Trombone | ||
| Masters Level-Euphonium | ||
| Masters Level-Tuba | ||
| Master's Recital | 4 | |
Enroll in this course in place of Applied Study in the recital semester: | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Small Ensemble | 2 | |
| Advanced Ensemble-Brass 3 | ||
| Contemporary Chamber Ensemble | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (horn majors only) | ||
| Large Performance Ensemble | 2 | |
2 semesters, 1 credit each | ||
Eligible courses include the following: | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Instrumental Literature | 2 | |
| Seminar-Instrumental Literature 4 | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
| 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
| Eligible musicology courses include: 5 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Musicology/Ethnomusicology Area) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible courses in music theory include: 6 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective Courses | 7 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless first approved by the Brass area faculty. Each ensemble may be taken for two semesters.
- 3
Sections of this course that are eligible include: Brass Quintet, Horn Choir, Tuba Quartet/Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble, Trombone Choir/Quartet. Each ensemble may be taken for two semesters. Note that the courses MUSIC 573 Contemporary Chamber Ensemble and MUSIC 565 Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind may also fulfill this requirement. Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless first approved by the Brass area faculty.
- 4
MUSIC 799 Independent Work (two credits) or two semesters of MUSIC 567 Advanced Ensemble-Brass (1 credit) may also be eligible, with approval of major professor.
- 5
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 6
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Choral Conducting Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 credits each semester | ||
| Advanced Conducting Seminar | ||
| Other Required Major Courses | 8 | |
| Seminar in Choral Literature (2 credits per semester) | ||
| Choral Ensemble | 4 | |
| Concert Choir (taken 4 times for 1 credit) | ||
| Recital | 2 | |
| Masters Recital | ||
| Music Reference and Research Materials | 3 | |
| Music Research Methods and Materials | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
| At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison | ||
| Eligible musicology courses include: 2 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Collaborative Piano Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Study | 8 | |
4 semesters minimum, 2 credits each semester: | ||
| Advanced Accompanying | ||
| Recitals | 2 | |
Two recitals: 1 vocal, 1 instrumental; 1 credit each | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Vocal and Instrumental Accompanying | 8-11 | |
All students take: | ||
| Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature | ||
For emphasis in Vocal Accompanying the following three courses are required: | ||
| Language Diction for Singing I | ||
| Language Diction for Singing II | ||
| Opera Workshop | ||
For emphasis in Instrumental Accompanying the following two courses are required: | ||
| Diction for Singers | ||
plus 1 semester from the following courses: | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Brass | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Percussion | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-String | ||
| Vocal Literature | 2 | |
| Repertoire (Vocal Repertoire, 2 credits) 3 | ||
or MUSIC 792 | Seminar in Vocal Literature | |
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses 6 | 2-5 | |
| With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
This course requirement is waived for students with a TA or PA appointment in accompanying.
- 3
Contact the graduate office or the voice faculty for information on the schedule for planned offerings of these courses.
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 5
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
- 6
Elective course credits should bring the total number of School of Music course credits to a minimum of 30.
Composition Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Composition Applied Study | 9 | |
3 semesters minimum, 3 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level Composition | ||
| Thesis–Composition (Project) | 3 | |
To be taken in the final semester of study, after three semesters of the above composition courses are completed. Attendance at Composition Master Class is required of composition majors enrolled in Master's Thesis. | ||
| Masters Thesis | ||
| Courses in Musicology | 6 | |
Eligible musicology courses include: 2 | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Courses in Music Theory | 6 | |
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by the Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Composition Electives 4 | 6 | |
| Orchestration I | ||
| Seminar in Composition (topics course; may be repeated for credit) | ||
| Other Electives | 4 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
- 4
Other courses may be eligible for this requirement, by approval of the major professor.
Guitar Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Guitar Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Guitar | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Enroll in this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Ensemble | 2 | |
2 semesters | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Classical Guitar | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
| At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
| Eligible musicology courses include the following: 2 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval by Music Theory area) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 11 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Harp Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Applied Study | 8 | |
| Master's Level Harp | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Masters Recital (Taken that semester instead of applied study.) | ||
| Ensembles | ||
Must include minimum of 2 credits of Orchestra. | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-String | ||
| Pedagogy | 2 | |
| Piano Pedagogy II | ||
| Seminar in Piano Pedagogy | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
| Three courses to include one course each in Musicology and one course in Music Theory. Required from approved course list. UW-Madison only (no waivers). | ||
| Musicology | ||
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 402 | Musical Cultures of the World | 3 |
| MUSIC 405 | Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | 3 |
| MUSIC 411 | Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | 3 |
| MUSIC 412 | Survey of Music in the Renaissance | 3 |
| MUSIC 413 | Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 414 | Survey of Music in the Classic Era | 3 |
| MUSIC 416 | Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | 3 |
| MUSIC 419 | Music in the United States | 3 |
| MUSIC 497 | Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 511 | Historical Performance Practices | 3 |
| MUSIC 513 | Survey of Opera | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 515 | Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 516 | Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | 3 |
| MUSIC 821 | Historical Music Theories 1 | 3 |
| MUSIC 822 | Historical Music Theories 2 | 3 |
| MUSIC 911 | Seminar in Musicology | 3 |
| MUSIC/FOLKLORE 915 | Seminar in Ethnomusicology | 3 |
| MUSIC 921 | Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | 3 |
| MUSIC 923 | Seminar in Notation | 3 |
| Music Theory | ||
| MUSIC 497 | Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory area.) | 1-3 |
| MUSIC 523 | Orchestration I | 3 |
| MUSIC 524 | Orchestration II | 3 |
| MUSIC 621 | Renaissance Polyphony | 3 |
| MUSIC 622 | Baroque Counterpoint | 3 |
| MUSIC 623 | Form and Analysis | 2-3 |
| MUSIC 624 | Form and Analysis II | 2-3 |
| MUSIC 629 | Jazz Theory and Analysis | 3 |
| MUSIC 821 | Historical Music Theories 1 | 3 |
| MUSIC 822 | Historical Music Theories 2 | 3 |
| MUSIC 823 | Schenkerian Analysis | 3 |
| MUSIC 824 | Post-tonal Analysis | 3 |
| MUSIC 921 | Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | 3 |
| MUSIC 926 | Topics in Music Analysis 2 | 3 |
| MUSIC 927 | Seminar in Composition | 3 |
| Electives | 7 | |
| Numbered 300 and above, approved by Major Professor and Advisor. May include excess from above categories. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
Orchestral Conducting Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each | ||
| Advanced Conducting | ||
| Conducting Laboratory | 4 | |
| Graduate Instrumental Conducting Laboratory | ||
| Recital | 3 | |
| Masters Recital 2 | ||
| Choral Ensemble | 1 | |
Either 660-578 or 660-577, 1 cr. | ||
| Concert Choir | ||
| Chorale | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
| Orchestration I (required) | ||
Among the remaining 6 credits, at least one course must be in Musicology. A total of 9 credits (including MUSIC 523, required) must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include: 3 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 9 | |
| Introduction to Arts Entrepreneurship | ||
| Entrepreneurship in Arts & Cultural Organizations | ||
| Seminar-Arts Administration | ||
| Seminar-Arts Administration | ||
| Nonprofit Governance & Board Membership | ||
| Diction for Singers | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Aural Skills) | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Music Community Engagement) | ||
| Fundamentals of Acting (Taken as THEATRE 699 Fundamentals of Acting) | ||
| Introduction to Movement Analysis (Taken as DANCE 699 ) | ||
Master's Level Applied Instrumental Lessons (Course numbers and credits vary). With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
At the discretion of the conducting faculty, the number of credits per semester for Master's Recital may vary, but the total recital credits in the program must be 4 credits. The alternate course 660-799 may be used for this requirement as necessary,
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Percussion Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Percussion Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Percussion | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Literature | 2 | |
| Repertoire (taken once for 2 credits) | ||
or MUSIC 550 | Percussion Literature | |
| Ensemble | 2 | |
| Ensemble: 2 semesters required. | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Percussion 2 | ||
| Large Performance Ensemble | 2 | |
2 semesters required. Select from: | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology faculty.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory faculty.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 7 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
With permission of the percussion faculty, other ensembles may substitute for MUSIC 568 Advanced Ensemble-Percussion.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Piano Performance Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Piano Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Piano | ||
| Recitals | 8 | |
Enroll for these courses in place of Master’s Level Piano in the recital semesters—there are two recitals. | ||
For the Solo Recital: | ||
| Masters Recital (solo recital, 4 credits) | ||
For the Chamber Music Recital: | ||
| Masters Recital (2 credits) | ||
| Advanced Accompanying (2 credits) | ||
| Piano Pedagogy | 3 | |
Select from the following courses: | ||
| Piano Pedagogy II 2 | ||
| Class Piano Pedagogy | ||
| Seminar in Piano Pedagogy (topics course; may be repeated for credit) | ||
| Piano Literature | 3 | |
Select from the following courses: | ||
| Seminar in Piano Literature | ||
| Repertoire | ||
| Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology faculty.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory faculty.) | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective credits | 3 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Eligibility for enrolling in this class is contingent upon the student's having taken MUSIC 340 Pedagogy or equivalent. For this requirement MUSIC 340 does not count toward fulfilling the total 9 credit minimum.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Piano Performance and Pedagogy Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Piano Applied Study | 4 | |
| Masters Level-Piano (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester) | ||
| An additional 4 credits selected from the following: | 4 | |
| Masters Level-Piano (4 credits minimum) | ||
| Advanced Accompanying | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
Enroll in this course in the recital semester instead of MUS PERF 501 or MUS PERF 542. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Pedagogy | 8 | |
Select from the following, with advisor approval: | ||
| Piano Pedagogy II 2 | ||
| Class Piano Pedagogy | ||
| Seminar in Piano Pedagogy | ||
| Piano Pedagogy Workshop | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic: Teaching Music in the Private Studio, 2 credits) 3 | ||
| Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Feldenkrais for Performing Artists, 1 credit) 4 | ||
| Final Project | 1 | |
| Independent Work | ||
| Practicum | 1 | |
| Practicum in Advanced Studio Teaching-Piano | ||
| Piano Literature | 3 | |
Select from the following: | ||
| Repertoire | ||
| Seminar in Piano Literature | ||
| Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Eligibility for enrolling in this class is contingent upon the student's having taken MUSIC 340 Pedagogy or equivalent. For this requirement MUSIC 340 does not count toward fulfilling the total 9 credit minimum.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
String Performance Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| String Instrument Applied Study | 8 | |
Enroll the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester: | ||
| Masters Level-Violin | ||
| Masters Level-Viola | ||
| Masters Level-Cello | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Orchestra | 2 | |
2 semesters required from either of the following: | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| Ensemble | 2 | |
2 semesters required in any of the following: | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-String | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| Pedagogy | 2 | |
| Select from the following courses: | ||
| Advanced String Pedagogy | ||
| Advanced String Pedagogy | ||
| Practicum in Advanced String Pedagogy | ||
| Advanced Pedagogy (instrumental) | ||
| Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Feldenkrais for Performing Musicians) | ||
| Literature | 2 | |
| String Literature | ||
or MUSIC 796 | Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature | |
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 2 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 5 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Vocal Performance Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Voice Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Voice | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Advanced Diction 2 | 4 | |
| Language Diction for Singing I 3 | ||
| Language Diction for Singing II 3 | ||
| Vocal Literature | 3 | |
| Seminar in Vocal Literature 3, 4 | ||
| Vocal Pedagogy | 2 | |
| Seminar in Vocal Techniques 3 | ||
| Ensemble | 2 | |
Select from the following courses: 5 | ||
| Collegium Musicum | ||
| University Opera | ||
| Concert Choir | ||
| Opera Workshop | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 6 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 7 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory faculty.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Language Proficiency | ||
Prior to graduation the voice and opera faculty must certify that a candidate has a level of proficiency in French, Italian, and German that is equivalent to successfully completing one semester of college-level coursework in all three languages plus a second of one of these languages (a total of four semesters of college-level study). The major professor in voice and the director of opera will determine proficiency through review of prior coursework and/or proficiency examination. | ||
Consult the voice faculty and the director of graduate studies for information on ways in which the language proficiency requirement may be satisfied. | ||
| Electives | 2 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
All or part of this requirement may be waived, should the student's diction proficiency is satisfactory in certain languages. The voice faculty will review past diction study or administer a qualifying examination to determine proficiency.
- 3
Consult the graduate office or the voice faculty for information on the schedule for planned offerings of this course.
- 4
MUSIC 346 Repertoire (Topic: Vocal Repertoire) or equivalent is a prerequisite for this course.
- 5
Other ensembles may be eligible for this requirement, with voice faculty approval.
- 6
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 7
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Wind Conducting Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
2 semesters, 4 credits each | ||
| Advanced Conducting | ||
| Recital | 2 | |
1 credit per semester. Can be either 2 recitals for 1 credit each, or 1 recital for 2 credits, at discretion of Conducting Faculty. | ||
| Masters Recital 2 | ||
| Conducting Laboratory | 4 | |
4 semesters required | ||
| Graduate Instrumental Conducting Laboratory | ||
| Wind Ensemble or Concert Band | 2 | |
Select from the following. 2 semesters minimum required. | ||
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory | 9 | |
Three courses, to include one course in Musicology and one course in Music Theory from approved course list. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include: 3 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 9 | |
| Advisor and major professor approved, from the following list: | ||
| Introduction to Arts Entrepreneurship | ||
| Entrepreneurship in Arts & Cultural Organizations | ||
| Seminar-Arts Administration | ||
| Seminar-Arts Administration | ||
| Nonprofit Governance & Board Membership | ||
| Diction for Singers | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Community Music Engagement, 2 credits) | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Aural Skills, 1 credit) | ||
| Fundamentals of Acting (Taken as THEATRE 699 Fundamentals of Acting) | ||
| Introduction to Movement Analysis (Taken as DANCE 699 ) | ||
| Master's Level Applied Instrumental Lessons (course numbers and credits vary). With advisor approval, courses in the School of Music numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
At the discretion of the conducting faculty, the recital credit may be fulfilled with c either 4 recitals at 1 credit each or 1 recital, 4 credits.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty
- 4
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Woodwind Performance Path1
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Woodwind Instrument Applied Study | 8 | |
Select the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester. | ||
| Masters Level-Flute | ||
| Masters Level-Oboe | ||
| Masters Level-Clarinet | ||
| Masters Level-Saxophone | ||
| Masters Level-Bassoon | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Ensemble | 2 | |
| Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (two semesters required) | ||
| Large Performance Ensemble | 2 | |
Select from the following. Two semesters required. | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| Concert Band | ||
| Musicology and Music Theory Courses | 9 | |
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison. | ||
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 1 | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| Seminar: Cultural Study of Music | ||
| Survey of Music in the Middle Ages | ||
| Survey of Music in the Renaissance | ||
| Survey of Music in the Baroque Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Classic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Romantic Era | ||
| Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century | ||
| Music in the United States | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Musicology/Ethnomusicology area.) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Special Topics in Music (Subject to approval of Music Theory area.) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Orchestration II | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Jazz Theory and Analysis | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Elective courses | 9 | |
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department numbered 300 or above. | ||
| Total Credits | 34 | |
- 1
These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
- 2
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.
- 3
Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.
Graduate School Policies
The Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.
Major-Specific Policies
Prior Coursework
Graduate Credits Earned at Other Institutions
No more than 6 credits may be approved for graduate coursework taken at other institutions.
Undergraduate Credits Earned at Other Institutions or UW-Madison
Refer to the Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework policy. The Mead Witter School of Music faculty rarely approve these exceptions.
Credits Earned as a Professional Student at UW-Madison (Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Veterinary careers)
Refer to the Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework policy.
Credits Earned as a University Special student at UW–Madison
The program allows up to 6 credits of UW-Madison University Special student credit to transfer. Refer to the Graduate School: Transfer Credits for Prior Coursework policy.
Probation
MM students who fail to make satisfactory progress in any of the four following areas: grades, course load, time limits, or exams, will be notified in writing by the director of graduate studies. At the end of the second semester of failing to make satisfactory progress the student is placed on probation effective the next semester. This action suspends financial aid (but does not affect loans or work-study). See details in the Satisfactory Progress for Master's Students.
Advisor / Committee
All programs provide for faculty from several disciplines to follow the student’s progress through the degree, provide mentorship along the way, and assess the student’s success in reaching expected learning outcomes. The principal advisor for most graduate students in the Mead Witter School of Music is generally referred to as the major professor. In all programs the major professor is determined with the student's particular interests in mind. In music performance programs, the faculty attempts, whenever possible. to assign the major professor based upon a student's request.
The director of graduate studies is also an advisor for all graduate students in Mead Witter School of Music programs. Students are expected to consult with the director of graduate studies at least once per semester to determine appropriate course plans. Consultation is mandatory in the semester before intended graduation.
Credits Per Term Allowed
15 credits
Time Limits
MM and MA students not receiving University funding are expected to complete requirements and pass comprehensive examinations within seven years from the time of enrollment in the program. While graduate students may enroll on a part-time basis, this time constraint still applies.
All MM and MA students holding teaching assistant, project assistant, or fellowship appointments must complete requirements for the degree within four semesters (not counting summer sessions or thesis credits). If the appointment is more than 33.4% the expectation is to complete requirements in the sixth semester.
Grievances and Appeals
These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:
- Bias or Hate Reporting
- Graduate Assistantship Policies and Procedures
- Hostile and Intimidating Behavior Policies and Procedures
- Employee Assistance (for personal counseling and workplace consultation around communication and conflict involving graduate assistants and other employees, post-doctoral students, faculty and staff)
- Employee Disability Resource Office (for qualified employees or applicants with disabilities to have equal employment opportunities)
- Graduate School (for informal advice at any level of review and for official appeals of program/departmental or school/college grievance decisions)
- Office of Compliance (for class harassment and discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence)
- Office Student Assistance and Support (OSAS) (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
- Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards (for conflicts involving students)
- Ombuds Office for Faculty and Staff (for employed graduate students and post-docs, as well as faculty and staff)
- Title IX (for concerns about discrimination)
Students should contact the department chair or program director with questions about grievances. They may also contact the L&S Academic Divisional Associate Deans, the L&S Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning Administration, or the L&S Director of Human Resources.
Other
n/a
Professional Development
Graduate School Resources
Take advantage of the Graduate School's professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career.
College of Letters and Science Resources
The College of Letters and Science's SuccessWorks program can assist with professional development and with identifying opportunities.
Learning Outcomes
- Communicates well-developed musical ideas clearly and energetically in performance and, where applicable, in compositions.
- Demonstrates knowledge of appropriate stylistic details in performance of music from a variety of historical periods and cultural origins.
- Draws upon extensive understanding of a variety of musical cultures and historical periods for the preparation of a performance or a composition.
- Selects the most appropriate methods of technique or notation to achieve the intended result in performance.
- Shows ability to express, verbally and in writing, musical ideas and interpretive conclusions to peers and colleagues.
- Recognizes and applies principles of ethical and professional conduct.
- Respects colleagues and values contributions of others in collaborative endeavors.
People
Faculty: Professors Cavanagh (director), Butler, Calderón, Chisholm, Di Sanza, Dominguez, Fischer, Fulmer, Hetzler, Johnson, Karp, Perry, Schwendinger, Taylor, Teeple, Vallon, Wallmann; Associate Professors Farah, Grabois, Nelson, Ronis, Sans, Treviño; Assistant Professors Chana, Cornish, Flowers, Laurenz, Lee, Lewis, Rathgeber, Walsh, Weinstein-Reiman, Wohn; Marching Band Director Pompey; Teaching Faculty Bjella, Brailey, Curry, Kasdorf, Koester, Purdue, J. Rottmayer ; Lecturers Ambrosio, Kriegel, McCullough, Patenaude, C. Rottmayer, Tran, Waldo, Wienholts; Faculty Associate Rich; Teaching Specialists Hammes, Ross.
The faculty of the Mead Witter School of Music is a distinguished group of educators, performing musicians, and active scholars. The backgrounds of performance faculty include rich experiences as professional musicians, researchers, recording artists, and entrepreneurs. Faculty in music education have particular insight into their field as a result of their backgrounds as school educators, performers, and scholars. In areas such as music theory and musicology, the musical community has high regard for the past and current contributions to the study of musical theory, historical perspectives on music, the role of music in societies around the world, and the unique contributions of American musicians. Teaching is a priority for the faculty, who are readily accessible to students for advice and support. Faculty, staff, and students cooperate in extraordinary ways with joint ventures that reach across disciplines both in research or instruction.
Accreditation
National Association of Schools of Music
Accreditation status: Accredited. Next accreditation review: 2022–2023. Accreditation review process slated to be completed fall 2024.