University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The Master’s in Music is structured to balance advanced applied work with academic study and professional development. Core elements typically include weekly one‑to‑one lessons, ensemble participation, and seminars in graduate music theory and music history or contemporary issues in music. Depending on the student’s focus, common course topics and modules include:

• Applied Studies: private lessons leading to a graduate recital; technical and repertoire study tailored to the student’s instrument or voice.
• Ensembles and Performance Practice: chamber music, contemporary music ensembles, orchestra, opera scenes, choral ensembles and collaborative pianism.
• Composition and Electronic Music: advanced composition, score study, computer music/electroacoustic techniques and studio production.
• Musicology and Ethnomusicology: graduate seminars in research methods, historical survey courses, and specialised topics in repertoire, performance practice or cultural studies.
• Theory and Analysis: advanced harmonic analysis, form and analysis, and applied counterpoint.
• Pedagogy and Professional Skills: courses or practica in teaching methods, rehearsal technique, audition preparation, arts administration and career development.
• Capstone Option: a public graduate recital or composition portfolio, or a written thesis/research project, depending on the student’s concentration and degree track.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a recognised bachelor’s degree with substantial prior study in music or equivalent professional experience. Applicants should expect to provide:

• Official transcripts from prior institutions showing academic preparation in music.
• A CV/resume outlining musical experience and education.
• A statement of purpose describing academic goals, artistic focus and reasons for choosing the programme.
• Letters of recommendation, normally from music faculty or professional supervisors who can speak to musicianship and potential for graduate study.
• An audition or portfolio: live audition or recorded performance samples for performers, scores and recording samples for composers, and writing samples for those applying to research‑focused tracks.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants where required (for example, TOEFL or IELTS scores).

Some applicants without a specialised undergraduate degree in music may be considered if they demonstrate comparable preparation through experience, prerequisite coursework, or successful completion of qualifying assessments. Specific requirements and audition repertoire lists are published by the Department of Music and should be consulted before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master’s in Music pursue a range of careers across performance, education, scholarship and the broader arts sector. Typical career paths include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber, orchestral or operatic settings.
• Composer, arranger or studio producer working in concert, media or commercial contexts.
• Music teacher at secondary or tertiary levels, private lesson instructor, or community music leader.
• Conductor, musical director or accompanist for theatre and choral organisations.
• Musicologist, researcher or arts writer progressing to doctoral study or working in cultural institutions.
• Arts administration, programming and outreach roles in venues, festivals and non‑profit organisations.

The programme’s combination of high‑level training, ensemble experience and access to regional networks supports graduates moving into both performing careers and teaching roles, as well as further academic study at the doctoral level.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst’s Department of Music offers a vibrant graduate environment within a large public research university and the Five College Consortium, providing access to additional courses, ensembles and faculty at neighbouring colleges. Students benefit from regular performance opportunities in campus venues, collaborative projects with the Department of Theatre, and facilities such as practice rooms, recording and electronic music studios.

The department’s faculty combine active performers, composers and scholars, enabling supervision that spans practical and research interests. The programme emphasises personalised instruction, interdisciplinary exchange and professional skills that prepare graduates for a range of careers in the arts. Its location in the Pioneer Valley also provides proximity to a rich regional music scene and relatively easy connections to larger cultural centres for additional performing and networking opportunities.