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. |
| 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
| Face to Face | Evening/Weekend | Online | Hybrid | Accelerated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | No | No | No | No |
Mode of Instruction Definitions
Evening/Weekend: These programs are offered in an evening and/or weekend format to accommodate working schedules. Enjoy the advantages of on-campus courses and personal connections, while keeping your day job. For more information about the meeting schedule of a specific program, contact the program. Online: These programs are offered primarily online. Many available online programs can be completed almost entirely online with all online programs offering at least 50 percent or more of the program work online. Some online programs have an on-campus component that is often designed to accommodate working schedules. Take advantage of the convenience of online learning while participating in a rich, interactive learning environment. For more information about the online nature of a specific program, contact the program. Hybrid: These programs have innovative curricula that combine on-campus and online formats. Most hybrid programs are completed on-campus with a partial or completely online semester. For more information about the hybrid schedule of a specific program, contact the program. Accelerated: These on-campus programs are offered in an accelerated format that allows you to complete your program in a condensed time-frame. Enjoy the advantages of on-campus courses with minimal disruption to your career. For more information about the accelerated nature of a specific program, contact the program. |
CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS
| 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
| 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 | ||
| Ensemble | 4 | |
| Enroll in an ensemble every semester. 2 | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Brass 3 | ||
| Contemporary Chamber Ensemble | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (horn majors only) | ||
| Organizations | 2 | |
| 2 semesters, 1 credit each | ||
| Eligible courses include the following: | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (if topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible courses in music theory include: 6 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation (one semester) | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Advanced Conducting (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester) | ||
| Other Required Major Courses | 6 | |
| Advanced Conducting Seminar (3 semesters required) | ||
| Seminar in Choral Literature (2 semesters required) | ||
| Recital | 1 | |
| 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 Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (approval of topic by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| 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 | |
| Piano Accompanying Lab (2 semesters required) 2 | ||
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 5 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Composition Applied Study | 9 | |
| 3 semesters minimum, 3 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level Composition | ||
| 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. | ||
| 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 (approval of topic by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Courses in Music Theory | 6 | |
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Composition Electives 4 | 6 | |
| Orchestration I | ||
| 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
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| 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 | ||
| Masters Level-Flute | ||
| Masters Level-Oboe | ||
| Masters Level-Clarinet | ||
| Masters Level-Saxophone | ||
| 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 | ||
| Advanced Flute | ||
| Advanced Oboe | ||
| Advanced Clarinet | ||
| Advanced Saxophone | ||
| Advanced Bassoon | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Enroll for this course in place of Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| 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: | ||
| Advanced Techniques: Clarinet 3 | ||
| Advanced Techniques: Bassoon 3 | ||
| Organizations | 2 | |
| 2 semesters total; Select from the following: | ||
| 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: 4 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (approval by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 5 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music ( approval by music theory faculty required) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Voice Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Voice | ||
| Opera Workshop | 4 | |
| 2 semesters, 2 credits each semester | ||
| Opera Workshop | ||
| Opera Performance | 2 | |
| One major opera role, determined by major professor | ||
| Masters Recital (2 credits) | ||
| Opera Study Project with Director of Opera | 2 | |
| Independent Work | ||
| Advanced Diction 2 | 4 | |
| Language Diction for Singing I 3 | ||
| 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 Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 5 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each | ||
| Advanced Conducting | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Masters Recital 2 | ||
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Organ Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 semesters, 4 credits each semester | ||
| Masters Level-Organ | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital | ||
| Organ Literature and Design | 4 | |
| Organ Literature and Design | ||
| 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 Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology area) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory area) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Composition | ||
| Research Methods and Materials | 3 | |
| 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
| 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 | ||
or MUSIC 550 | Percussion Literature | |
| Ensemble & Organization | 4 | |
| Ensemble: 2 semesters required. | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-Percussion 2 | ||
| Organization: 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology area) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty) | ||
| 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 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| Seminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| 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
| 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 Thesis (2 credits, enrolled with major professor) | ||
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 4 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Master's Level Piano Applied Study | 8 | |
| Masters Level-Piano (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester) | ||
| Or, alternatively, accumulate 8 credits with the following: | ||
| 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 3 | ||
| Current Topics in Dance: Workshop 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: 5 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 6 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| 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 | 4 | |
| 2 semesters required | ||
| University Symphony Orchestra | ||
| Chamber Orchestra | ||
| Ensemble | ||
| 2 semesters | ||
| Advanced Ensemble-String | ||
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| 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 | 2 | |
| Collegium Musicum | ||
| Madrigal Singers | ||
| 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (approval of topic by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| Proseminar in Ethnomusicology | ||
| Historical Music Theories 1 | ||
| Historical Music Theories 2 | ||
| Seminar in Musicology | ||
| Seminar in Notation | ||
| Eligible music theory courses include the following: 7 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (topic approved by music theory faculty) | ||
| 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 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. | ||
| 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
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Applied Study | 8 | |
| 2 semesters, 4 credits each | ||
| Advanced Conducting | ||
| Recital | 4 | |
| Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester. | ||
| Masters Recital 2 | ||
| Organization | 2 | |
| Select from the following. 2 semesters minimum required. | ||
| Wind Ensemble | ||
| 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 Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (approval of topic by musicology faculty required) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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: 4 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| 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 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
| 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) | ||
| Organizations | 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 | ||
| Music Cultures of the World: Africa, Europe, the Americas | ||
| Musical Cultures of the World | ||
| 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 (for topic approved by musicology faculty) | ||
| Historical Performance Practices | ||
| Survey of Opera | ||
| 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 | ||
| Jazz Improvisation | ||
| Special Topics in Music (approval of topic by music theory faculty required) | ||
| Orchestration I | ||
| Renaissance Polyphony | ||
| Baroque Counterpoint | ||
| Form and Analysis | ||
| Form and Analysis II | ||
| Schenkerian Analysis | ||
| Post-tonal Analysis | ||
| Current Issues in Musical Thought 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 1 | ||
| Topics in Music Analysis 2 | ||
| 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
- 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.
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.
- 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.
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