Graduate Conducting Programs

College Majors Music Major
1

<p>I ran across this forum and thought this might be a good place to begin a search for information. I have been teaching for 3 years, primarily as a middle school band director. I just took a job as a head band director and will be taking on high school band for the first time. I'm looking a little ways down the road, and I would really like to get into a good conducting school where I can begin work toward a doctorate. I would like to continue teaching as long as possible. I realize colleges require at least one year residence, but I was hoping for an option where I would be able to take classes during the summer sessions...then move near the school for my last year. So, my first questions are: "Is that possible?" "Has it been done?"</p>

<p>Next, if that's possible, what are some good schools where this can be done? It seems like I've heard of people doing this at North Texas? How can I go about maximizing my chances of getting into a good conducting school? </p>

<p>Here's my situation: I have a B.M. in Theory and Composition and a M.M. in Composition. My undergrad degree is from a small regional school and my masters degree is at a division 1 music school that is ranked around 50th in the country. So, neither of my degrees come from what I would consider to be topnotch music schools. However, I do have high GPAs. Believe it or not, I haven't taken the GRE yet. I'm going to begin studying for that very soon. I would really like some direction, so I can begin preparing and moving toward my goal. It would be great to begin coursework in three years or less. What do grad schools look for in conducting candidates? I appreciate any input. Thank you.</p>

2

<p>You are not alone in seeking this kind of education. Colorado State has seized the momentum and is building a very strong program around this niche. Here’s their brochure (1st page is upside down):
<a href=“http://www.music.colostate.edu/pdf/conducting_brochure_09.pdf[/url]”>http://www.music.colostate.edu/pdf/conducting_brochure_09.pdf&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>And the website describing the program:
[CSU</a> - Department of Music - Divisions - Conducting - Masters Degree in Music Education with Conducting Emphasis](<a href=“http://www.music.colostate.edu/divisions/education/mmeconducting.asp]CSU”>http://www.music.colostate.edu/divisions/education/mmeconducting.asp)</p>

<p>It’s a Master’s in Music Ed with conducting emphasis, with a summer-only residency requirement. The rest of the coursework you do online, and using your current ensemble, so it’s meant especially for working music educators. The faculty includes folks like Sandra Dackow. You get exposed to band, orchestral, and choral conducting. I think this merits serious consideration.</p>