Master of Music in Conducting - Orchestral Conducting

Embark on a transformative journey with the Master of Music (MM) in Conducting at Boston University School of Music, where passion meets precision and artistry meets academic excellence. Our program immerses you in the intricate art of choral and orchestral conducting, blending rigorous technique and comprehensive literature studies with vibrant coursework in performance, music theory, and musicology. Nestled within a top-tier research university, youll thrive in an intimate setting that fosters creativity, innovation, and personalized mentorship from our distinguished faculty.

The graduate Conducting programs at Boston University combine study of orchestral and choral conducting techniques and literature with related work in performance, music theory, and musicology. The setting, residing within the structure both of a school of music and of a major research university, is vibrant and intimate. Conducting students, whether specializing in orchestral conducting or in choral conducting, join a diverse community of scholar-performers, led by distinguished, creative, and experienced faculty. In addition, the School of Music supports active centers of early music and new music.

Orchestral conductors study their principal area throughout their residency and concurrently, for a portion of their residency, study choral conducting. Similarly, choral conductors study orchestral conducting as part of their curriculum. As part of their formal training, orchestral conductors work in rehearsal and performance with the School of Music orchestras, and choral conductors work with the choral ensembles. Boston's deep and thriving musical environment also offers energetic and creative students many possibilities for extra-curricular involvement both with amateur and with professional musical organizations.

Comprehensive Curriculum
Advanced Conducting Techniques Master the art of conducting through in-depth study and hands-on practice, focusing on baton technique, score reading, rehearsal strategies, and performance practices.
Orchestral Literature Explore a wide range of orchestral repertoire from Baroque to contemporary, gaining a deep understanding of stylistic interpretations and historical contexts.
Related Studies Complement your conducting training with courses in music theory, musicology, and performance practice to enhance your overall musicianship.
Expert Mentorship Learn from a world-renowned faculty with extensive experience as conductors, composers, and performers, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of orchestral conductors.
Performance Opportunities
Podium Time Gain invaluable experience conducting the BU Symphony Orchestra, BU All Campus Orchestra, BU Opera Institute, and other university ensembles in rehearsals and live performances.
Collaborative Projects Engage in interdisciplinary experiences in the College of Fine Arts and the greater Boston University community, broadening your conducting experience and artistic perspective. Recent intra-University collaborative project partners include the Boston University Opera Institute, Boston University School of Theatre, Boston University Center for Beethoven Research, and Boston University School of Theology.
Guest Conductors and Masterclasses Interact with acclaimed guest conductors and participate in masterclasses, gaining insights from leaders in the field.