Bilkent University

Overview

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Music at Bilkent University offers an immersive experience for students pursuing advanced skills in music performance, conducting, or composition. This two-year program emphasizes practical training through studio work, research, and public artistic presentations. Students engage with the university's professional ensembles, enhancing their musical expertise and preparing them for a successful career in the arts.

What you'll study

The program is structured to foster both artistic development and academic research capabilities. Students undertake core graduate components, which include:

• Research Methods and Academic Publication Ethics
• Academic Practices
• Department Seminar
• Master’s Lecture Recital
• Master’s Final Concert
• Master’s Thesis

Students can specialize in one of the following tracks:

• Music Performance and Interpretation (available instruments include flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion, harp, piano, classical guitar, violin, viola, violoncello, double bass, operatic voice, and chamber music)
• Conducting (focus on practical and theoretical training for conducting opera and orchestra ensembles)
• Composition (advanced training designed to develop a unique creative voice and produce original work)

Public presentations are a key element of the program, with students required to showcase their work through a lecture recital and a final concert, in addition to their thesis project.

Entry requirements

Applicants must fulfill specific academic criteria, including a minimum GPA of 2.5. Additionally, proficiency in English is required, with acceptable scores from standardized tests such as TOEFL or equivalent qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates of the M.A. in Music program at Bilkent University are well-equipped for various career paths in the music industry. They may pursue roles as professional performers, conductors, composers, or music educators. The comprehensive training and hands-on experience gained during the program prepare students to excel in both artistic and academic settings, contributing to their professional success in the field of music.