University of Memphis

What you'll study

The Master’s in Music combines advanced applied study with graduate-level coursework to build technical, interpretive and scholarly skills. Depending on the chosen track, you will study one-to-one applied lessons, chamber music and large ensemble performance, score study and analysis, advanced aural skills, graduate seminars in music history and theory, and courses in pedagogy or conducting.

• Performance and Applied Study: weekly private lessons, studio classes, jury examinations and a final recital or equivalent capstone.
• Composition and Theory: composition workshop, orchestration, advanced harmony and counterpoint, and portfolio requirements.
• Conducting: rehearsal technique, score preparation, hands‑on conducting labs with university ensembles and repertoire study.
• Music Education: advanced pedagogy, curriculum design, assessment, and research in music teaching and learning; some students combine practica or supervision hours where appropriate.
• Research and Capstone Options: options typically include a recital, thesis, research project or comprehensive examinations depending on the concentration and faculty guidance.

Students also participate in departmental ensembles, collaborative piano or accompaniment opportunities, and may access recording, rehearsal and performance facilities as part of their practical training.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor’s degree in music or an equivalent undergraduate credential demonstrating sufficient preparation in musicianship and repertoire. Requirements commonly include:

• Official undergraduate transcripts demonstrating satisfactory academic preparation.
• An admissions audition or submitted performance recordings for performance and conducting applicants; a composition portfolio for composition applicants.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s musical work.
• A personal statement outlining musical goals and reasons for pursuing graduate study.
• For some concentrations, an interview with faculty or additional written work may be required.
• International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements and supply any additional documentation requested for international admission.

Specific minimum GPA levels, audition formats and supplementary materials vary by concentration; prospective students should consult the School of Music admissions information for detailed, up‑to‑date guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Music pursue a wide range of careers in performance, education and the broader music industry. Typical pathways include:

• Professional performer in solo, chamber or orchestral settings and freelance careers in recital, studio and session work.
• Music educator at secondary schools, private studios and community education programmes (note: public school teaching often requires state licensure beyond the master’s).
• Conductor or ensemble director for choirs, bands and orchestras at community, academic or youth levels.
• Composer/arranger for concert, media and commercial projects, often supported by commissions and collaborations.
• Arts administration, programming, touring and music production roles within cultural organisations and the music business.
• Further academic study such as doctoral programmes (DMA/PhD) or specialist diplomas for those aiming at university-level teaching and high-level research.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers graduate music study within a lively musical city known for rich traditions in jazz, blues, soul and recording. The School of Music provides one‑on‑one faculty mentorship, regular performance opportunities, and applied laboratories that bridge academic study with practical experience. Students benefit from connections to the local music ecosystem, collaborative projects across theatre and the arts, and access to facilities supporting rehearsal, recording and ensemble performance.

Faculty at the university are active performers, scholars and educators, offering students direct professional mentorship and networking opportunities. For musicians seeking a conservatory‑style emphasis combined with the resources and research support of a major public university, the University of Memphis presents a portfolio of pathways to develop artistry and career readiness.