Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts, Orchestral Conducting

Application requirements

To be considered for acceptance into the MM or the DMA in Orchestral Conducting, applicants must:

1. Submit a pre-screening recording with approximately 15 minutes of material to the “digital uploads” section of the Graduate College application. Excerpts should include contrasting repertoire that demonstrates a variety of styles and tempi. The camera should be placed at the back of the ensemble with the focus on the front of the conductor. A full-size ensemble is not required; for example, a string quintet plus piano will suffice.
2. Submit a repertory list to the “Program-Specific Questions” section of the University Application.

All materials can be uploaded directly to the Graduate College application. A limited number of applicants are invited to campus. The live audition may consist of an interview, conducting audition, and additional testing. The Music Admissions Office will send prescreening results after December 15.

About Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts, Orchestral Conducting

At the University of Illinois, future orchestra conductors have access to a world-class education in conducting as well as a broad array of course offerings in music history and theory.

Recent graduates of the orchestral conducting program have won prestigious competitions, music directorships, and teaching positions around the world.

In addition to weekly podium time with a chamber ensemble in the graduate conducting seminar, graduate orchestral conductors enjoy regular opportunities to conduct all three of our orchestras. A renowned faculty in Choral Music and Wind Conducting allows for further exposure, interaction, and study in choral and wind specialties.