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 master of music in music: performance is offered with majors in brass; composition; guitar; percussion; piano performance; collaborative piano; piano performance and pedagogy; organ; string performance; vocal performance; opera; woodwinds; multiple woodwinds; choral conducting; orchestral conducting; wind conducting.

A double master's degree with the Information School is also offered.

After completing their degree, some master's degree students may be interested in application to the DMA (doctor of musical arts) program. Entrance to the DMA program is upon recommendation of the faculty of the relevant performance area and usually requires an audition. No new application to the Graduate School or to the Mead Witter School of Music is required.

The DMA and the Ph.D. are the highest degrees conferred by the Mead Witter School of Music. The DMA is granted for evidence of general proficiency and distinctive attainment in a specialized field of performance. The student's ability in independent investigation is demonstrated through a series of recitals and in a final project presenting original research or creative scholarship.

Master's degrees require a minimum of 30 credits. Each degree track varies slightly, and details are provided in the course lists available through the Requirements tab. Contact the Mead Witter School of Music graduate office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu, for complete explanations of the M.M.–music: performance degree.

The M.M.–music performance degree offers tracks for many major specialties, instrumental and vocal. 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.

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.

Graduate Admissions Requirements

Requirements	Detail
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 in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency). Every international student from a non-English speaking country must submit a TOEFL score of 85 or higher. The Mead Witter School of Music does NOT waive the TOEFL requirement for students who have completed a degree at an American university.
Other Test(s) (e.g., GMAT, MCAT)	n/a
Letters of Recommendation Required	3

Minimum admission requirements of the Graduate School apply to all applicants for graduate study in music. The Mead Witter School of Music has additional requirements. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in music or equivalent foundational course work as required by each area of study. An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, calculated on the last 60 credit hours) is necessary for full admission. The M.M. program involves substantial academic work and requires excellent reading, writing, and speaking skills. Therefore, all international students are required to submit a TOEFL score. See the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions website for information on minimum score requirements. The Mead Witter School of Music does not waive the TOEFL score requirement for students who have completed a degree at an American university. Typically, performance applicants are required to audition in person. For details on specific audition requirements and additional application materials, visit the School of Music graduate admissions website.

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 UW 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. Nomination by a performance faculty member—usually following an on-site audition—is required for consideration.

The Mead Witter School of Music also offers teaching and project assistantships in music history, music theory, 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 selects qualified applicants for the Chancellor’s Fellowship, University Fellowship, and Advanced Opportunity Fellowship. The UW–Madison Office of Student Financial Aid assists students in obtaining general grants and loans. All Mead Witter School of Music students who receive funding are required to enroll full-time with 8–12 graduate credits.

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

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 are able to complete a program with minimal disruptions to careers and other commitments. 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

University General Education Requirements

Requirements	Detail
Minimum Credit Requirement	30 credits
Minimum Residence Credit Requirement	16 credits
Minimum Graduate Coursework Requirement	Half of degree coursework (15 credits out of 30 total credits) must be completed graduate-level coursework; courses with the Graduate Level Coursework attribute are identified and searchable in the university's Course Guide (https://registrar.wisc.edu/course-guide/).
Overall Graduate GPA Requirement	3.25 GPA required.
Other Grade Requirements	Graduate students at UW–Madison must meet expectations for satisfactory progress toward completion of the degree while enrolled. In School of Music graduate programs, a graduate student must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.25. Even though grades below B do not count for graduate credit toward the degree, those grades are included in computation of the GPA. In the first semester in which the cumulative GPA falls below 3.25 the director of graduate studies will notify the student in writing. After a second semester in which the GPA remains below 3.25 the student will be placed on probation for the next semester enrolled. This action suspends all financial aid awards through UW–Madison, though loans and work-study are not affected. Failure to raise the GPA to 3.25 or above in the probation semester results in the student’s withdrawal from the Graduate School and from the School of Music program. To maintain satisfactory progress School of Music students on UW–Madison funding (teaching assistants, project assistants, fellows, and scholarship recipients) must maintain full-time status. A student’s satisfactory progress is also in jeopardy should a major project or recital be judged incomplete or deficient. Failure of one or more parts of the comprehensive examinations, preliminary examinations, or final defense 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	All School of Music doctoral programs require proficiency at the intermediate level in at least one foreign language. The Historical Musicology track requires proficiency in German. Foreign language proficiency assures that the student has the tools needed to pursue comprehensive research in the major field. Details on foreign language requirements and ways to fulfill proficiency expectations are outlined in the course lists available through the Requirements tab for each degree. This information is also available in the advising worksheets for each degree major track.

Required COURSES

The following chart outlines the course requirements for all of the available M.M.–music performance degrees. Note that each one has particular requirements, and that the total credits vary among majors. 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 Academic Policies and Procedures. You may direct any questions about the coursework or required proficiencies to the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu. 

Brass Track¹

Course List

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)
MUS PERF 517	Masters Level-Horn
MUS PERF 519	Masters Level-Trumpet
MUS PERF 521	Masters Level-Trombone
MUS PERF 523	Masters Level-Euphonium
MUS PERF 525	Masters Level-Tuba
Master's Recital		4
Enroll in this course in place of Applied Study in the recital semester:
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Ensemble		4
Enroll in an ensemble every semester. 2
MUSIC 567	Advanced Ensemble-Brass 3
MUSIC 573	Contemporary Chamber Ensemble
MUSIC 565	Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (horn majors only)
Organizations		2
2 semesters, 1 credit each
Eligible courses include the following:
MUSIC 570	University Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 571	Chamber Orchestra
MUSIC 574	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 576	Concert Band
Instrumental Literature		2
MUSIC 798	Seminar-Instrumental Literature 4
Musicology and Music Theory		9
9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include: 5
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (if topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible courses in music theory include: 6
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation (one semester)
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 524	Orchestration II
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective Courses		1
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Conducting Applied Study		8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 532	Advanced Conducting (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester)
Other Required Major Courses		6
MUSIC 553	Advanced Conducting Seminar (3 semesters required)
MUSIC 541	Seminar in Choral Literature (2 semesters required)
Recital		1
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 524	Orchestration II
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		4
Choose any courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		28

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Applied Study		8
4 semesters minimum, 2 credits each semester:
MUS PERF 542	Advanced Accompanying
Recitals		2
Two recitals: 1 vocal, 1 instrumental; 1 credit each
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Vocal and Instrumental Accompanying		8-11
MUS PERF 342	Piano Accompanying Lab (2 semesters required) 2
MUSIC 796	Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature
For emphasis in Vocal Accompanying the following three courses are required:
MUSIC 467	Language Diction for Singing I
MUSIC 468	Language Diction for Singing II
MUSIC 557	Opera Workshop
For emphasis in Instrumental Accompanying the following two courses are required:
MUSIC 466	Diction for Singers
plus 1 semester from the following courses:
MUSIC 565	Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind
MUSIC 567	Advanced Ensemble-Brass
MUSIC 568	Advanced Ensemble-Percussion
MUSIC 569	Advanced Ensemble-String
Vocal Literature		2
MUSIC 346	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses 6		1
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30-33

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Composition Applied Study		9
3 semesters minimum, 3 credits each semester
MUS PERF 547	Masters Level Composition
MUS PERF 548	Masters Level Composition
Attendance at Composition Master Class is required of students enrolled in Master's-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.
MUSIC 990	Masters Thesis
Courses in Musicology		6
Eligible musicology courses include: 2
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
Courses in Music Theory		6
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
Composition Electives 4		6
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition (topics course; may be repeated for credit)
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Guitar Applied Study		8
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 540	Masters Level-Guitar
Recital		4
Enroll in this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Ensemble		2
2 semesters
MUSIC 572	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		7
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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.

Multiple Woodwinds Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Major Woodwind Instrument Applied Study		8
Enroll in the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 507	Masters Level-Flute
MUS PERF 509	Masters Level-Oboe
MUS PERF 511	Masters Level-Clarinet
MUS PERF 513	Masters Level-Saxophone
MUS PERF 515	Masters Level-Bassoon
Secondary Instrument Applied Study		4
1 semester at 4 credits or 2 semesters at 2 credits, at discretion of secondary instrument professor
MUS PERF 407	Advanced Flute
MUS PERF 409	Advanced Oboe
MUS PERF 411	Advanced Clarinet
MUS PERF 413	Advanced Saxophone
MUS PERF 415	Advanced Bassoon
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital (four credits) 2
Tertiary Instruments		6
3 instruments total, 2 credits of study each at 300 level. Select from the following as appropriate:
MUS PERF 311	Advanced Techniques: Clarinet 3
MUS PERF 315	Advanced Techniques: Bassoon 3
Organizations		2
2 semesters total; Select from the following:
MUSIC 570	University Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 571	Chamber Orchestra
MUSIC 574	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 576	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: 4
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music ( approval by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		33

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.
2	For the Master's Recital, 60% should be focused on the major instrument and 40% on the secondary instrument.
3	Study on flute, oboe, and saxophone is also available.
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.

Opera Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Voice Applied Study		8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 505	Masters Level-Voice
Opera Workshop		4
2 semesters, 2 credits each semester
MUSIC 557	Opera Workshop
Opera Performance		2
One major opera role, determined by major professor
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital (2 credits)
Opera Study Project with Director of Opera		2
MUSIC 799	Independent Work
Advanced Diction 2		4
MUSIC 467	Language Diction for Singing I 3
MUSIC 468	Language Diction for Singing II 3
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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		1
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
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 year (two semesters) of college-level coursework. 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.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 on discretion of the voice faculty; student must have had equivalent training in prior study. The voice faculty administers a qualifying examination to determine proficiency in diction.
3	This course sequence is offered only once every two years. Consult the graduate office or voice area faculty to plan accordingly.
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.

Orchestral Conducting Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Conducting Applied Study		8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each
MUS PERF 532	Advanced Conducting
Recital		4
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital 2
Musicology and Music Theory Courses		9
MUSIC 523	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		9
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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.

Organ Performance Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Organ Applied Study		8
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 503	Masters Level-Organ
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Organ Literature and Design		4
MUSIC 591	Organ Literature and Design
MUSIC 799	Independent Work
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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology area)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory area)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Research Methods and Materials		3
MUSIC/​L I S  619	Music Research Methods and Materials
Elective courses		5
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		33

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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.

Percussion Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Percussion Applied Study		8
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 527	Masters Level-Percussion
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Literature		2
MUSIC 346	Repertoire
or MUSIC 550	Percussion Literature
Ensemble & Organization		4
Ensemble: 2 semesters required.
MUSIC 568	Advanced Ensemble-Percussion 2
Organization: 2 semesters required. Select from:
MUSIC 570	University Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 571	Chamber Orchestra
MUSIC 574	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 576	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology area)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		4
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		31

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Piano Applied Study		8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 501	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:
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital (solo recital, 4 credits)
For the Chamber Music Recital:
MUSIC 990	Masters Thesis (2 credits, enrolled with major professor)
MUS PERF 542	Advanced Accompanying (2 credits)
Piano Pedagogy		3
Select from the following courses:
MUSIC 548	Piano Pedagogy II 2
MUSIC 551	Class Piano Pedagogy
MUSIC 751	Seminar in Piano Pedagogy (topics course; may be repeated for credit)
Piano Literature		3
Select from the following courses:
MUSIC 791	Seminar in Piano Literature
MUSIC 346	Repertoire
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: 3
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective credits		1
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		32

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Piano Applied Study		8
MUS PERF 501	Masters Level-Piano (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester)
Or, alternatively, accumulate 8 credits with the following:
MUS PERF 501	Masters Level-Piano (4 credits minimum)
MUS PERF 542	Advanced Accompanying
Recital		4
Enroll in this course in the recital semester instead of MUS PERF 501 or MUS PERF 542.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Pedagogy		8
Select from the following, with advisor approval:
MUSIC 548	Piano Pedagogy II 2
MUSIC 551	Class Piano Pedagogy
MUSIC 751	Seminar in Piano Pedagogy
MUSIC 752	Piano Pedagogy Workshop
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music 3
DANCE 560	Current Topics in Dance: Workshop 4
Final Project		1
MUSIC 799	Independent Work
Practicum		1
MUSIC 560	Practicum in Advanced Studio Teaching-Piano
Piano Literature		3
Select from the following:
MUSIC 346	Repertoire
MUSIC 791	Seminar in Piano Literature
MUSIC 796	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: 5
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 6
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		34

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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	Approved topic: Teaching Music in the Private Studio, 2 credits
4	Approved topic: Feldenkrais for Performing Artists, 1 credit
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.

String Performance Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
String Instrument Applied Study		8
Enroll the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester:
MUS PERF 531	Masters Level-Violin
MUS PERF 533	Masters Level-Viola
MUS PERF 535	Masters Level-Cello
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Orchestra		4
2 semesters required
MUSIC 570	University Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 571	Chamber Orchestra
Ensemble
2 semesters
MUSIC 569	Advanced Ensemble-String
Pedagogy		2
Select from the following courses:
MUSIC 543	Advanced String Pedagogy
MUSIC 544	Advanced String Pedagogy
MUSIC 545	Practicum in Advanced String Pedagogy
MUSIC 540	Advanced Pedagogy (instrumental)
DANCE 560	Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Feldenkrais for Performing Musicians)
Literature		2
MUSIC 546	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		4
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		33

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Master's Level Voice Applied Study		8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
MUS PERF 505	Masters Level-Voice
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Advanced Diction 2		4
MUSIC 467	Language Diction for Singing I 3
MUSIC 468	Language Diction for Singing II 3
Vocal Literature		3
MUSIC 792	Seminar in Vocal Literature 3, 4
Vocal Pedagogy		2
MUSIC 749	Seminar in Vocal Techniques 3
Ensemble		2
Select from the following courses: 5		2
MUSIC 461	Collegium Musicum
MUSIC 558	Madrigal Singers
MUSIC 578	Concert Choir
MUSIC 557	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 7
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	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.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		34

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Conducting Applied Study		8
2 semesters, 4 credits each
MUS PERF 532	Advanced Conducting
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital 2
Organization		2
Select from the following. 2 semesters minimum required.
MUSIC 574	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 576	Concert Band
Musicology and Music Theory		9
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I (required)	3
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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		7
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		33

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Track¹

Course List

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.
MUS PERF 507	Masters Level-Flute
MUS PERF 509	Masters Level-Oboe
MUS PERF 511	Masters Level-Clarinet
MUS PERF 513	Masters Level-Saxophone
MUS PERF 515	Masters Level-Bassoon
Recital		4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
MUS PERF 990	Masters Recital
Ensemble		2
MUSIC 565	Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (two semesters required)
Organizations		2
Select from the following. Two semesters required.
MUSIC 570	University Symphony Orchestra
MUSIC 571	Chamber Orchestra
MUSIC 574	Wind Ensemble
MUSIC 576	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
MUSIC 400
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  401	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  402	Musical Cultures of the World
MUSIC 405	Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
MUSIC 411	Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
MUSIC 412	Survey of Music in the Renaissance
MUSIC 413	Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
MUSIC 414	Survey of Music in the Classic Era
MUSIC 415	Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
MUSIC 416	Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
MUSIC 419	Music in the United States
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (for topic approved by musicology faculty)
MUSIC 511	Historical Performance Practices
MUSIC 513	Survey of Opera
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  515	Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 821	Historical Music Theories 1
MUSIC 822	Historical Music Theories 2
MUSIC 911	Seminar in Musicology
MUSIC/​FOLKLORE  915	Seminar in Ethnomusicology
MUSIC 923	Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
MUSIC 331	Jazz Improvisation
MUSIC 497	Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required)
MUSIC 523	Orchestration I
MUSIC 621	Renaissance Polyphony
MUSIC 622	Baroque Counterpoint
MUSIC 623	Form and Analysis
MUSIC 624	Form and Analysis II
MUSIC 823	Schenkerian Analysis
MUSIC 824	Post-tonal Analysis
MUSIC 921	Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
MUSIC 925	Topics in Music Analysis 1
MUSIC 926	Topics in Music Analysis 2
MUSIC 927	Seminar in Composition
Elective courses		5
With advisor approval, choose courses in the School of Music at 300 level or above.
For information on Comprehensive Examinations and Committees please refer to the summary through the Policies tab; for full details consult the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook.
Total Credits		30

1	These tracks are internal to the program and represent different pathways a student can follow to earn this degree. Track 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 Work from Other Institutions

No more than 6 credits may be approved for graduate coursework taken at other institutions.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

The Graduate School allows departments to review requests to count up to 7 credits of undergraduate work at UW–Madison toward graduate program requirements, but this is rarely approved by the Mead Witter School of Music faculty.

UW–Madison University Special

Some students may have completed coursework at 300-level or above at UW–Madison as a Special Student; with program approval coursework so taken may be considered to fulfill up to 6 credits of graduate program requirements.

ProbatioN

M.M. students who fail to make satisfactory progress in any of the four following areas: grades, course load, time constraints, or exams, will be notified in writing by the DGS. 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. Committee structures differ among degrees and majors. 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 Constraints

M.M. and M.A. 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 M.M. and M.A. 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
  • Office of the Provost for Faculty and Staff Affairs
• Dean of Students Office (for all students to seek grievance assistance and support)
• 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 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

Graduate School Resources

Take advantage of the Graduate School's professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

1. Communicates well-developed musical ideas clearly and energetically in performance and, where applicable, in compositions.
2. Demonstrates knowledge of appropriate stylistic details in performance of music from a variety of historical periods and cultural origins.
3. Draws upon extensive understanding of a variety of musical cultures and historical periods for the preparation of a performance or a composition.
4. Selects the most appropriate methods of technique or notation to achieve the intended result in performance.
5. Shows ability to express, verbally and in writing, musical ideas and interpretive conclusions to peers and colleagues.
6. Recognizes and applies principles of ethical and professional conduct.
7. Respects colleagues and values contributions of others in collaborative endeavors.

Faculty: Professors Cook (director), Blasius, Calderón, Chisholm, Crook, DiSanza, Dill, Doing, Fischer, Fulmer, Hetzler, Hyer, Johnson, Karp, Koza, Leckrone, Perry, Rowe, Schaffer, Schwendinger, Stowe, Swack, B. Taylor, C. Taylor, Teeple, Thimmig, Vardi, Vallon; Associate Professors Dobbs, Grabois, Wallmann; Assistant Professors Altino, Lee, Ronis

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