Ithaca College

What you'll study

The programme combines one-to-one applied study, advanced seminars and ensemble participation to develop technical mastery, stylistic breadth and professional artistry. Typical components include applied lessons, a practicum or teaching internship, and regular participation in chamber and large ensembles.

• Applied Performance: weekly private lessons focused on repertoire, technique and recital preparation leading to a final public recital or recorded portfolio.
• Ensembles and Conducting: chamber music, orchestral, choral and contemporary ensembles; conducting study for those specialising in conductorship.
• Composition and Theory: advanced composition, orchestration, score reading, and analysis of 20th/21st-century techniques for composition students or those pursuing research in contemporary music.
• Music Education and Pedagogy: pedagogy seminars, curriculum development, practicum or supervised teaching placements for candidates preparing for classroom or private studio work.
• Research and Musicianship: courses in music history, research methods, score analysis and performance practice to support scholarly and artistic projects.
• Culminating Project: a public recital, lecture-recital, composition portfolio or written thesis, depending on the major concentration and advisor guidance.

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree (BA, BM or equivalent) with substantial coursework or experience in music; applicants with other degrees but demonstrable musical preparation may be considered.
• Live or recorded audition (or portfolio submission for composition applicants) demonstrating technical command and artistic potential.
• Academic transcripts from previous institutions.
• Letters of recommendation, typically two to three, from teachers, ensemble directors or professional colleagues who can speak to musical ability and readiness for graduate study.
• Personal statement outlining goals, preferred area of study and any teaching or professional objectives.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as specified by the college (e.g. recognised test scores or institutional exemptions).

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of careers in performance, education, composition and arts leadership. The degree prepares students for:

• Professional performance as soloists, chamber musicians, orchestral or choral players.
• Music teaching in schools, conservatoires and private studios, and preparation for certification where applicable.
• Composition and arranging for concert, theatre, media and commercial contexts.
• Conductor or rehearsal leader roles with ensembles and community organisations.
• Further academic study at the doctoral level (DMA or PhD) in performance, composition, musicology or music education.
• Arts administration, production, recording and entrepreneurial careers within the cultural sector.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers conservatory-style training within a close-knit academic community, emphasising frequent performance, individual mentoring and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from small class sizes and regular opportunities to perform in ensembles, present recitals and work with faculty who maintain active professional profiles.

The college provides dedicated practice facilities, rehearsal spaces and recording resources, and its location in a regional cultural hub supports engagements with local arts organisations and touring guest artists. The programme’s balance of applied study, pedagogy and scholarship is suitable for candidates seeking professional artistry, teaching credentials or a pathway to advanced research.