Master of Arts Degree in Music

Master of Arts Degree [M.A.]
in Music

The purpose of this degree is to produce Christian musicians that implement strong technical, musical, and communication skills to honor the Lord through music.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates of this program will be able to

1. evaluate forms and style characteristics in music literature,
2. produce public performances showing graduate proficiency in music,
3. integrate current music technology and computer applications in arranging and composition, and
4. communicate concisely and effectively about music in oral and written formats.

Residence Requirements

Pre-term, Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Spring: A minimum of 21 months of residence work beginning with a Pre-term session (Aug. 20–31, 2012) is required. A public recital must be given before graduate work is completed.

Music Emphasis

All music graduate students must demonstrate basic keyboard skill before completing the degree program. Students may either take the Piano Proficiency Examination or opt for one year of piano.

One credit of private music instruction in the student’s emphasis is required each semester. Music instruction is available in voice, keyboard, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion, and choral conducting. MU 656 includes private music instruction. Ensemble credit includes Chamber Ensemble, Madrigal Singers, Orchestra, or piano accompaniment for a college performing group. Students with keyboard skills will take PI 505 Graduate Hymnplaying and only three ensemble credits. Students with an instrumental emphasis will take MU 537 Advanced Instrumental Church Music Arranging and only three ensemble credits.