M.M. in Piano Performance

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed bachelor's degree: Prospective postgraduate students must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Typically, this should be a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Minimum GPA: Rider University often requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.0 or higher is commonly required, with no individual band score below 5.5.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT: A minimum total score of 79 is required.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Rider University accept a DET score of 100 or higher as evidence of English proficiency.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 53 or higher is accepted.

Rider University offers various scholarship opportunities to international students to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. 

1. Global Leaders Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. It covers a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and provides financial assistance.

3. Presidential Scholarships: Rider University awards Presidential Scholarships to top-performing international undergraduate students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide substantial financial support.

4. Dean's Scholarship: Dean's Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record. The scholarship amount varies based on academic qualifications.

5. International Achievement Award: This scholarship acknowledges the accomplishments of international undergraduate students. It is based on a combination of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Rider University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's degrees. These assistantships provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work on campus.

7. Talent Scholarships: Rider provides talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional abilities in areas such as the arts, music, and athletics. International students with exceptional talents can apply for these scholarships.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: Students accepted into Rider's Honors Program may be eligible for additional scholarships, which recognize outstanding academic achievement and commitment to intellectual growth.

9. Corporate and Foundation Scholarships: Rider University has partnerships with various corporations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: Rider encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. Scholarships are available to support students who wish to study in another country as part of their academic experience.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Graduates of Rider University's M.M. in Piano Performance are poised for a multitude of rewarding career opportunities in the field of music composition and related areas. 

1. Concert Pianist: Graduates of the M.M. in Piano Performance program often pursue careers as concert pianists. They perform as soloists with orchestras, in solo recitals, and at renowned concert venues around the world. These professionals showcase their exceptional piano skills and interpretations of classical and contemporary repertoire.

2. Collaborative Pianist: Many graduates specialize in collaborative piano, serving as accompanists for instrumentalists, vocalists, choirs, and chamber ensembles. Collaborative pianists enhance the musical experiences of other performers by providing skillful accompaniment and support.

3. Chamber Musician: Some graduates choose to focus on chamber music. They become part of chamber ensembles, performing in small groups that typically include strings, woodwinds, and brass instruments. Chamber musicians often specialize in specific musical genres or historical periods.

4. Piano Teacher: Teaching is a rewarding career path for M.M. in Piano Performance graduates. They offer private piano lessons to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether working independently or at music schools and conservatories, piano teachers play a vital role in nurturing future pianists.

5. University Professor: Graduates with a passion for academia may become university professors in piano performance. They teach and mentor aspiring pianists at the collegiate level, imparting their knowledge and expertise while engaging in scholarly research and artistic exploration.

6. Music School Faculty: Music schools and conservatories often hire M.M. in Piano Performance graduates to join their esteemed faculty. These professionals teach piano and guide the development of emerging pianists, contributing to the prestige of their institutions.

7. Artist-in-Residence: Accomplished pianists may be invited to serve as artists-in-residence at universities, concert venues, or cultural organizations. In this role, they combine teaching, performing, and community engagement, making a significant impact on the artistic community.

8. Piano Technician: For graduates interested in the technical aspects of pianos, becoming a piano technician is an option. They tune, repair, and maintain pianos for individuals, schools, music venues, and institutions, ensuring the instruments are in optimal condition.

9. Music Director: Some graduates choose to work as music directors in theaters or churches. They lead music programs, select repertoire, and conduct choirs or ensembles, contributing to the musical and spiritual aspects of their communities.

10. Composer: Graduates with a penchant for composition may explore this avenue, creating original piano compositions or music across various genres and for different ensembles. Their compositions contribute to the richness of the contemporary music landscape.

11. Recording Artist: Becoming a recording artist allows graduates to record albums and share their piano music with a global audience. They may collaborate with record labels or pursue independent careers, creating audio recordings that showcase their artistry.

12. Music Festival Performer: Some graduates participate in music festivals as soloists or ensemble members. These festivals offer diverse repertoire and networking opportunities, allowing pianists to collaborate with fellow musicians and gain exposure.

13. Arts Administration: Graduates with leadership skills may pursue careers in arts administration. They manage concert series, festivals, or music organizations, overseeing logistical and artistic aspects, and fostering the growth of the arts in their communities.

14. Music Critic/Reviewer: Those with a passion for writing and music analysis may become music critics or reviewers. They contribute articles and reviews to publications and online platforms, offering insights into piano performances and repertoire.

15. Arts Entrepreneur: Arts entrepreneurs establish their own concert series, music schools, or music-related businesses. They promote and organize performances, educational programs, and cultural events, contributing to the vitality of the arts in their regions.

16. Collaborative Pianist in Opera: Graduates with an interest in vocal music can work as collaborative pianists in opera productions. They coach singers, accompany rehearsals, and contribute to the success of opera performances.

17. Guest Artist: Accomplished pianists may be invited as guest artists to perform with orchestras or in concert series. Their specialized skills and interpretations make them sought-after collaborators in various musical contexts.

18. Competition Judge: Graduates with extensive performance experience may serve as judges for piano competitions. They assess the skills and artistry of young pianists, providing valuable feedback and guidance.

19. Music Therapy: For those interested in therapeutic applications, graduates can explore music therapy. They use piano performance to support the well-being of individuals with diverse needs, such as those with disabilities or undergoing rehabilitation.

20. Music Festival Director: Some graduates become directors of music festivals, curating and organizing events that celebrate piano performance and classical music. They create platforms for pianists to showcase their talent and inspire audiences.