Syracuse University

What you'll study

The programme combines intensive applied study with ensemble work, electives and academic coursework. Core components typically include weekly private lessons or composition tutorials, large and small ensemble participation (choral, orchestral, wind, chamber ensembles, jazz, musical theatre ensembles as relevant), and coursework in areas such as music theory and analysis, music history and research methods, pedagogy, and advanced conducting or arranging depending on the chosen emphasis.

• Applied lessons and performance study leading to a graduate recital or equivalent culminating project.
• Ensemble participation across symphonic, operatic/musical theatre, choral, chamber and jazz groups.
• Courses in advanced harmony and counterpoint, form and analysis, and twentieth/21st‑century music.
• Electives in composition, orchestration, music technology and recording, theatre music direction and collaborative piano.
• Research or thesis options for students pursuing scholarly work; practical projects for performance or composition tracks.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with the Department of Drama and local professional companies, including staging, scoring and musical direction for theatre and musical theatre productions.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor’s degree in music or a closely related discipline, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Admission typically requires:

• An academic transcript from prior study showing preparedness for graduate work.
• An audition or portfolio of recent performance or composition work; repertoire requirements vary by emphasis.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or professional supervisors familiar with the applicant’s musical ability.
• A personal statement outlining artistic goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test unless exempt; applicants may also be asked to provide additional documentation for visa purposes.

Specific preparatory or repertoire expectations, and any additional requirements (such as interviews or teaching demonstrations for education tracks), depend on the chosen concentration—check Setnor School of Music guidance for the precise audition repertoire and application checklist.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of professional roles in music and theatre. Career pathways commonly pursued include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber, orchestral, opera or musical theatre settings.
• Composer, arranger or music director for theatre and commercial projects.
• Music educator at secondary or tertiary levels (additional certification may be required for public school teaching), private studio teacher or pedagogical specialist.
• Conductor or rehearsal pianist within community and professional ensembles.
• Arts administration, production, sound recording and music technology roles within theatres, festivals and cultural organisations.

The programme’s practical performance focus and opportunities for theatrical collaboration help graduates develop the portfolio, audition experience and professional networks needed to pursue freelance careers or further doctoral study.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse’s Setnor School of Music is part of the College of Visual and Performing Arts and provides a conservatory-style training environment embedded within a research university. The school offers a breadth of performance opportunities in its auditoria, access to dedicated practice and rehearsal facilities, and modern recording and music‑technology resources.

• Close collaboration with the Department of Drama and connections to local theatre companies create pathways for students interested in music for stage and musical theatre.
• Faculty are active performers, composers and scholars, offering personalised studio mentoring alongside ensemble and classroom instruction.
• Regular masterclasses, visiting artists and performance series give exposure to professional networks and contemporary practice.

Students benefit from being part of a university community that supports interdisciplinary work, research opportunities, and practical training aimed at building sustainable careers in music and theatre.