Music, M.M.: Performance Option
For those students anticipating study beyond the master's level the Master of Music normally leads to the D.M.A. degree. Graduate study may include intensive work in the performance area, continuing development of knowledge in music history and music analysis, philosophical and pedagogical training, and opportunities for electives and independent study in various areas of interest.
Those students who already hold a master's degree in music will not be able to receive a second masters from CSUN at this time.
The Music Department at California State University, Northridge offers graduate studies in classical Performance. In addition to their studies on the instrument of their major, students continue to deepen their knowledge in Music History, Theory and research, with a vast array of electives available as well for every interest. Classes in the areas of their concentration include courses in Orchestral, Band, and Chamber Music Literature, Pedagogy, Chamber Music, Conducting, as well as private lessons and participation in various ensembles. The instrumental performance graduate degree culminates in a graduate project that consists of:
- a performance of a public recital or lecture recital,
- a written scholarly document (abstract of thesis)
- a final oral examination with a three member faculty committee
The instrumental and vocal graduate program at CSUN has been focused on training students to move immediately into the professional performance world or to move on to doctoral studies. Many of our students become active members of the diverse musical life of Los Angeles and perform as members of many major ensembles and as soloists, both nationally and internationally.
CSUN offers its students in instrumental performance a variety of performance opportunities including an annual concerto competition, an honors string quartet, and participation in master classes with guest artists.
MM audition requirements
Prerequisite: should have completed an undergraduate degree in music or its equivalent
Please go to your specific option page for audition information.
Incoming Graduate Auditions are held in the fall and spring semesters. After admission into the program, further placement tests are required in the areas of music theory/analysis and music history.
Some of the following materials will be submitted on your music audition application. The exact requirements for your option will be on the audition application that you fill out through the platform "acceptD". These can include such things as:
- Provide recital programs and repertoire lists for the audition personnel.
- A brief statement discussing background and goals.
- Letters of recommendation
Those students unable to be present for their live incoming graduate auditions may submit a DVD of their performance in lieu of a live audition.
Following the evaluation of all these documents and the performance audition, the area coordinator in consultation with the graduate advisor may recommend remedial coursework in areas such as musicianship, music history, or analysis. Remedial class credits do not count toward the degree requirements. In some cases, it will be possible to count 400-level courses as electives, if needed. Occasionally, incoming graduate students in piano performance will be required to schedule a senior recital, if such a recital was not mandatory during your undergraduate studies. A senior recital would occur if the undergraduate degree is in another field.