M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.M. in Classical Performance
Chicago, Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.M. in Classical Performance is typically a two-year, full-time program, with all classes and applied study taking place in-person on the Chicago campus. Admission to this highly selective program requires a successful audition demonstrating exceptional musical talent and technical proficiency on the chosen instrument. The program's core objective is to develop and refine technical and musical abilities through the study and performance of challenging works from traditional and modern repertoires. A significant component is ongoing solo and ensemble performing experiences, culminating in a substantial graduate recital.
NASM Accredited: Yes, Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA), including all its music programs such as the M.M. in Classical Performance, is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Roosevelt University is a founding member of NASM, which underscores its long-standing commitment to maintaining the highest standards in music education. This accreditation is a strong indicator of the program's quality, ensuring that its curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student outcomes meet rigorous national benchmarks for professional music training.
Curriculum: The curriculum is intensely focused on performance development. It typically includes four semesters of "Applied Lessons" (private instruction) with highly esteemed faculty, concentrating on building technical strengths and artistic interpretation. Students also participate in "Performance Class" specific to their instrument family (e.g., Brass Performance Class, String Performance Class), offering opportunities for peer performance and critical feedback. Essential to the program are requirements for "Large Instrumental Ensembles" (e.g., Symphony Orchestra) and "Chamber Music," providing vital collaborative experience. The program culminates in a "Graduate Recital," a public performance of a substantial program of works (typically 60 minutes for most instruments) spanning various stylistic periods, showcasing the student's artistic maturity and technical prowess. Academic courses in music history and theory may also be included to broaden musical knowledge.
Research Focus: The M.M. in Classical Performance program, while primarily focused on artistic practice, inherently involves a deep form of applied research. This "research" manifests through intensive study and analysis of musical scores, historical performance practices, and critical listening. Performers engage in thorough investigation of a piece's historical context, stylistic nuances, and theoretical underpinnings to inform their interpretation. They "research" different editions, recordings, and scholarly analyses to develop a unique and informed performance approach. The preparation for the graduate recital requires extensive practical "research" into repertoire, technical challenges, and artistic presentation, pushing the boundaries of their instrumental and musical understanding.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University's CCPA fosters robust industry engagement for its M.M. in Classical Performance program, significantly benefiting from its location in Chicago, a major international music hub. Students have unparalleled opportunities to perform in professional-caliber ensembles and can gain additional experience through internships with nationally known music organizations. The faculty are often active professional musicians who hold positions in major Chicago ensembles (e.g., Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago), bringing real-world expertise and networking opportunities into the classroom. The program encourages participation in professional auditions and masterclasses with visiting artists, further connecting students to the wider classical music industry and preparing them for the demands of a professional performing career.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University's M.M. in Classical Performance program inherently cultivates a global perspective through its engagement with a vast and diverse classical music repertoire. Students are expected to study and perform works from various historical periods and geographical origins, exposing them to the rich tapestry of global musical traditions. The program attracts a diverse student body and faculty from around the world, enriching the learning environment with varied cultural insights and approaches to music-making. This international exchange of ideas and talent prepares graduates to engage with a global audience and contribute to the universally recognized language of classical music in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 37023
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% 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 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.M. in Classical Performance from Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) provides a highly specialized and intensive education for instrumentalists aiming for professional careers in music. With its strong emphasis on technical mastery, expansive repertoire study, and abundant performance opportunities in a major musical hub like Chicago, the program prepares graduates for the multifaceted demands of the classical music industry.
Orchestral Musician: This is a highly sought-after career path for instrumentalists. Graduates audition for and secure positions in professional symphony orchestras (e.g., Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago orchestra, regional orchestras), performing in regular concert seasons, recordings, and tours.
Chamber Musician: Graduates form or join chamber ensembles (e.g., string quartets, woodwind quintets, piano trios) that perform independently, commission new works, and engage in residencies, tours, and recording projects.
Solo Performer: For exceptionally talented and driven individuals, a career as a solo instrumentalist involves performing concertos with orchestras, giving recitals, and participating in competitions.
Pit Orchestra Musician (Theater/Opera): Graduates can work in the pit orchestras for theatrical productions (Broadway tours, regional theater) or opera companies, performing the instrumental scores for musicals and operas.
Private Music Teacher/Studio Instructor: Many classical performers supplement their income, or make a primary living, by teaching their instrument privately to students of all ages and skill levels in their own studios or at community music schools.
Music Educator (Higher Education): With an M.M., graduates are qualified to teach applied lessons (private instrumental instruction) at colleges, universities, or conservatories, and may also teach general music courses or coach ensembles. Further doctoral study (DMA) is often pursued for full-time university faculty positions.
Military Band Musician: A stable career option for highly skilled instrumentalists, playing in prestigious military bands (e.g., U.S. Army Band, Marine Band), which perform for official events, concerts, and tours.
Session Musician/Recording Artist: Graduates can work as freelance musicians for recording studios, contributing instrumental tracks to film scores, commercials, video games, or other artists' albums.
Arts Administrator/Program Coordinator (Classical Music): Leveraging their deep understanding of classical music and the performing arts, graduates can work in administrative roles for orchestras, opera companies, classical music festivals, or arts non-profits, assisting with programming, fundraising, and operations.
Accompanist/Collaborative Pianist: For pianists, this involves working with vocalists or other instrumentalists in rehearsals, auditions, recitals, and competitions, providing essential musical support and collaboration.
