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Music Performance Master’s program at Illinois State University

Master of Music in Performance
The Music Performance Master's program at Illinois State University offers advanced training for musicians who are passionate about their craft and seeking to further their skills. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines performance-focused coursework, individual lessons, and ensemble participation. Students work closely with renowned faculty members who are dedicated to their artistic growth and development. The program emphasizes both technical proficiency and artistic expression, helping students refine their technique, interpretation, and musicality.
Unique opportunities for performance, including solo recitals, chamber music, and ensemble collaborations, allow students to showcase their talents and gain valuable experience. The program typically requires completion of 32-34 credit hours and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Graduates of the Music Performance Master's program at Illinois State University are well-equipped for careers as professional performers, teachers, or to pursue further doctoral studies in music.
Music in Performance - Program Review
What we liked: Illinois State University's Master's in Music Performance program is a remarkable opportunity for musicians looking to refine their skills and pursue excellence in their chosen instrument. The program provides a rich and diverse curriculum that encompasses both theoretical and practical aspects of music performance. Students have access to accomplished faculty members who are dedicated to nurturing their artistic growth and development. A minimum of 32 quarter credits is required to complete the program within 2 years. This program doesn't require GRE for admission.
We appreciate that the university offers financial aid and scholarships to help alleviate the financial burden for students. Additionally, pending college approval, allows students to build upon their previous academic accomplishments and tailor their program to suit their individual needs. The program's emphasis on both technical proficiency and artistic expression creates a well-rounded educational experience for aspiring musicians. The cost of the program is reasonable compared to other master's programs which are $32000.
Composition of student population
Music in Performance MA - GRE not required
A student applying to a master's program must:
- have earned a four-year bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a college or university that is accredited by the appropriate regional accrediting association, or do so within one academic year
- have a minimum 2.8 GPA (on a scale on which an A is a 4.0) for the last 60 hours of undergraduate work
- present unofficial transcripts from each college or university other than Illinois State at which graduate, undergraduate, or non-degree credit was earned.
- Undergraduate degree in music, or the equivalent for international students.
- School of Music application (included within the university application).
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.8 for the last 60 hours of undergraduate enrollment.
- Three current letters of recommendation.
- A live or recorded performance audition
GRE is not required for the Master of Music program.
Music in Performance MA - Scholarship available
Financial aid is available for students attending the Illinois State University's Master of Music Performance program. Students may be eligible for financial assistance in the form of loans, scholarships, tuition waivers, grants, and employment opportunities. To apply for financial aid, students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for state, federal, and institutional financial aid, including federal student loans. Additionally, transgender students who are ineligible for federal financial assistance and qualifying undocumented students may complete the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid to be considered for state and institutional financial aid. For further information and assistance, students can contact the Financial Aid Office or visit their website.
Jobs, Salaries and Career after Masters in Music Performance
Overall employment of postsecondary teachers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. About 139,600 openings for postsecondary teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
The median annual wage for postsecondary teachers was $80,560 in May 2020. Number of Jobs in 2020 was 1,276,900.