Chapman University

What you'll study

This Master’s programme combines individual applied study with advanced coursework in musicianship, analysis, composition, pedagogy and professional practice. Students develop a personalised course of study with guidance from Conservatory faculty to support performance recitals, compositional portfolios or research projects.

• Applied lessons: regular one-to-one tuition on your principal instrument or voice, culminating in a graduate recital.
• Ensemble and chamber music: participation in small and large ensembles, opera scenes or musical theatre productions depending on specialism.
• Advanced musicianship and analysis: study of harmony, counterpoint, form and 20th/21st-century techniques.
• Composition and arranging: workshops, score study and opportunities for performances of new works.
• Music technology and production: recording, editing and technology for performance and media, with practical studio projects.
• Pedagogy and conducting: methods for teaching, rehearsal techniques and basic conducting for those pursuing academic or educational careers.
• Professional practice: career development, audition preparation, entrepreneurship and collaboration with Chapman’s theatre and film programmes.

Entry requirements

Admissions are competitive and assessed on musical ability, academic preparation and fit with faculty expertise. Applicants should normally hold a bachelor’s degree in music or equivalent practical experience and training.

• Completed application form and academic transcripts demonstrating appropriate undergraduate preparation in music or related experience.
• Live or recorded audition for performers and a portfolio of scores and recordings for composers; audition requirements vary by specialism.
• Statement of purpose outlining your musical goals and how the Chapman programme will support them.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from teachers or professional referees.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university regulations.

Applicants with non-traditional backgrounds who show substantial professional experience or achievement may be considered; specific exemptions or additional preparatory work may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of professional roles across performance, education and the creative industries. The programme emphasises practical experience and industry connections that prepare students for a variety of paths.

• Professional performer in solo, chamber and orchestral settings, or musical theatre and opera.
• Composer or arranger for concert, theatre, film and media, including scoring for screen projects.
• Accompanist, collaborative pianist or répétiteur working with conservatories and theatre companies.
• Music educator at secondary or tertiary levels, private teacher, or curriculum developer in schools and community settings.
• Music producer, recording engineer or studio professional, especially where music technology training has been taken.
• Arts administrator, music director or freelance entrepreneur within festivals, ensembles and cultural organisations.
• Further academic study such as doctoral programmes in performance, composition, musicology or music education.

Why study at Chapman University

Chapman’s Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music provides focused, small-cohort training with faculty who are active performers, composers and industry professionals. The Conservatory’s location in Orange County places students close to the vibrant music, theatre and film industries of the greater Los Angeles area, enabling internships, collaborations and performance opportunities.

• Access to dedicated performance venues and rehearsal spaces, and frequent public recital and production opportunities.
• Cross-disciplinary collaboration with Chapman’s theatre and film programmes for students interested in scoring, musical theatre or media projects.
• Personalised mentorship and intensive applied instruction to accelerate technical and artistic growth.
• Professional development resources to support audition preparation, portfolio presentation and career planning in a competitive cultural economy.