Master of Social Work - Traditional
The traditional Master of Social Work (MSW) program at the University at Buffalo is des...
M.M. in Music Performance
Buffalo, New York
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.M. in Music Performance at UB is a 30-credit hour program, typically completed within two years of full-time study, with a focus on intense, advanced practical and scholarly study. The program aims to develop high-achieving performing musicians at the post-baccalaureate level, preparing them for careers as concert artists, orchestral musicians, opera singers, conductors, or private music teachers. It emphasizes a holistic education that integrates performance with studies in music history, theory, and composition, fostering a vibrant community where tradition meets innovation and creativity thrives.
Curriculum: The 30-credit curriculum for the M.M. in Music Performance includes weekly private lessons, ensemble participation, and advanced coursework in music history and theory. Students receive individualized instruction from world-class musicians and educators, focusing on technical mastery and interpretive depth in their chosen instrument or voice. The program requires active participation in major performance ensembles, offering a wide range of opportunities to collaborate with peers and faculty. A core component is the public performance of various recitals, demonstrating artistic growth and technical proficiency. The specific course breakdown will include performance credits, academic seminars, and potentially elective options depending on the student's area of emphasis (instrumental, vocal, or conducting).
Research Focus: While the M.M. in Music Performance is primarily a professional degree focused on applied musical skills, it also encourages academic excellence and critical engagement with music. Students are expected to demonstrate interpretive depth, which involves a form of artistic research into musical scores, historical performance practices, and theoretical underpinnings. The Department of Music at UB has a strong focus on contemporary music and the Center for 21st-Century Music, providing opportunities for students to explore and perform new works. This includes engaging with innovative approaches to music, potentially involving technological experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration, which can be seen as a form of artistic research.
Industry Engagement: The M.M. in Music Performance program at UB offers significant industry engagement through its extensive performance opportunities and connections. Students have opportunities to collaborate with premier ensembles, such as the Slee Sinfonietta, and perform at high-profile events like the "June in Buffalo" festival. These experiences provide invaluable practical training, stage presence development, and networking opportunities with professional musicians, guest artists, and a broader audience in the greater Buffalo area. The program explicitly aims to prepare graduates for professional careers as musicians, whether as soloists, orchestral members, opera singers, conductors, or in other performing roles, by providing real-world performance exposure.
Global Perspective: The M.M. in Music Performance at UB fosters a global perspective through its engagement with a diverse range of musical repertoire and its connections within the international music community. The program's faculty and guest artists often represent varied global musical traditions and performance styles, enriching the learning experience. Participation in contemporary music ensembles and festivals like "June in Buffalo" exposes students to new works and interpretations from composers and performers worldwide, broadening their understanding of music as a global art form. As part of a major public research university that attracts international students and faculty, the program benefits from a culturally diverse environment that encourages a broad and inclusive view of music.
Location
Buffalo, New York
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 28210
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 61 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
The University at Buffalo (UB) offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students who wish to pursue their studies in the United States. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, helping to make education more affordable for talented students worldwide.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UB provides competitive merit scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate and graduate students. Awards such as the International Student Academic Excellence Scholarship recognize high-achieving students based on their academic records, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
Graduate Fellowships and Assistantships: Graduate international students can apply for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and fellowships which offer tuition remission and stipends. These opportunities allow students to gain valuable teaching and research experience while offsetting the cost of their education.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UB offer scholarships tailored to students in specific programs or fields of study. These awards may consider academic merit, research interests, or financial need.
External Scholarships: UB encourages international students to explore external scholarship options from private organizations, governments, and international foundations that support study in the U.S. The university’s International Student Services office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such funding sources.
A Master of Music (M.M.) in Music Performance from the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) is a highly esteemed graduate program designed for instrumentalists, vocalists, and conductors who aspire to achieve technical mastery, interpretive depth, and academic excellence. Housed within a dynamic Department of Music, UB's program offers personalized mentorship, a comprehensive curriculum, and unparalleled performance opportunities. The M.M. in Music Performance at UB is tailored to help students elevate their artistry and refine their musical journey, equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary to excel as professional musicians in a competitive global landscape. Graduates emerge with a diverse skill set including advanced technical proficiency, interpretative insight, stage presence, collaborative abilities, and critical thinking, making them well-prepared for a variety of roles in the music industry and beyond.
Professional Performer (Orchestral/Ensemble/Soloist): Secure positions in symphony orchestras, opera companies, chamber ensembles, or pursue a career as a solo recitalist or concert artist, performing in various venues globally.
Opera Singer/Vocal Performer: Pursue a career in opera, musical theater, or as a concert vocalist, performing in productions, recitals, and other vocal engagements.
Conductor/Music Director: Lead and direct professional or amateur orchestras, choirs, bands, or musical theater productions, shaping their musical vision and performance.
Private Music Instructor/Studio Teacher: Teach instrumental or vocal lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, either independently or through music schools, community arts academies, or university preparatory programs.
Collaborative Pianist/Accompanist: Work as a staff accompanist for academic institutions, perform with vocalists and instrumentalists in rehearsals and performances, or serve as a repetiteur for opera companies.
Music Educator (K-12 or Higher Education): Teach music in public or private schools (often requiring additional teaching certification), or pursue a doctorate to become a professor at a college, university, or conservatory.
Session Musician: Work as a freelance instrumentalist or vocalist for recording studios, live performances, film scores, commercial jingles, and other media projects, contributing to various musical productions.
Arts Administrator/Program Manager: Apply organizational and leadership skills within music organizations, managing concerts, educational programs, fundraising, marketing, and operational aspects for orchestras, opera companies, or arts non-profits.
Music Arranger/Orchestrator: Adapt existing musical compositions for different instrumentations, ensembles, or vocal arrangements for various projects, including film, television, and live performance.
Music Therapist (with additional certification): Combine musical expertise with therapeutic techniques to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals in healthcare settings, schools, or community centers (typically requires a separate certification or degree in music therapy).
