Program Director

Dr. Joseph Carucci

Bliss Hall 3010

jwcarucci@ysu.edu 

330) 941-1439 

Program Description

The Master’s in Music (MM) in Music Performance provides advanced individualized instruction that focuses on the professional development and unique career goals of each student. Students develop advanced competencies in their degree major as well as critical skills such as consistent work ethic and the ability to work independently.

Master’s students in music work closely with a world-class faculty of performers, scholars and artists, holding advanced academic degrees from some of the finest schools of music in the world, such as: Juilliard, Cleveland Institute of Music, New England Conservatory, University of Southern California, Indiana University, Florida State University, University of Texas, University of Michigan, and the Cincinnati Conservatory. The intensive applied curriculum provides students with skills they will use throughout their careers. Skilled performers may find work in many types of ensembles (for example, bands, orchestras, wedding/festivity entertainment, cruise ships, theaters, recording studios, sacred groups, and touring ensembles). Our MM in Music Performance graduates are performing with national and international orchestras, recording in Hollywood studios, touring with diverse acts, and include Grammy award winning artists.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission to graduate study in the Master of Music degree must present a baccalaureate degree in music from an accredited college or university. Admission requires a cumulative undergraduate grade point average of at least 2.7 (on a 4.0 scale). 

Auditions are required for all performance degrees. 

Successful completion of 30 semester hours and all requirements specific to each degree.

Upon admission and before the start of the first semester of graduate study, each student must take a diagnostic examination in music history and music theory. Students who score at least 70% on the theory diagnostic exam will test out of the remedial 6921 Graduate Analysis I. The history diagnostic test is intended to assess students’ critical reading, thinking, and writing in advance of 6977 and 6960. Failure to take the diagnostic examinations will result in the addition of 6921 Graduate Analysis I and one music history elective within the degree. 

Students in Performance, Music Theory and Composition, and Music Education will take core courses in Philosophies of Music (6977), Graduate Analysis II (6922), and Research in Music (6960). 

In performance degrees, students will also take applied lessons, ensembles, and two seminar electives. Performance degrees will culminate in a recital of 50 minutes of music. Candidates in Voice Performance are expected to be proficient in two foreign languages or else take two semesters each of two different languages (Italian, French, or German). 

In Jazz Studies, students will take core courses in Jazz Theory (6935), Jazz Composition (6936), Jazz History (6946), and Research in Music (6960). Students will also take applied lessons on an instrument and in composition as well as small and large ensembles. The degree requires two 50-minute recitals.

In Music Theory and Composition degrees, students will take seminar electives as well as Thesis I (6990) and Thesis II (6991). A thesis and an oral defense of the thesis are required. Music Education degree students may elect either the thesis or a significant research project. Thesis students who have completed all requirements but have not defended the thesis are required to register for one hour of 6991, if they expect to receive advisor or committee assistance or utilize University services (e.g., library, computer, parking, and so forth).

Students must maintain a minimum grade-point average of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) to remain in “good standing.” Any course grade of D or F must be repeated and passed with a grade of A or B and no more than 6 semester hours of coursework with a grade of C may count toward the minimum graduation hour requirements.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze and work critically with historical information (MUHL). Assessment: MUHL course-based project
2. Students will demonstrate an understanding of specialized knowledge of at least one aspect of Music Theory (MUTC). Assessment: Final exam in 6922 Graduate Analysis II
3. Students will demonstrate the ability to write in a scholarly manner about their area of specialization within music. Assessment: Final Project in 6960 Research in Music
4. Students will demonstrate proficiency in their applied area. Assessment: Second year RECITAL of 50 minutes of music.