orchestra conductor
What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework must be completed in 4 semesters (2 years)

Where can I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

  • Fall – February 1

Master of Music, Concentration in Wind Band Conducting, M.Mu.

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]
404-413-5965

The Master of Music program at Georgia State University, with a concentration in Wind Band Conducting, is meticulously crafted to cultivate and elevate students’ conducting skills while providing insights into the administrative aspects of directing collegiate wind band programs. Through a comprehensive study of repertoire, students not only develop their musicianship and artistry but also acquire the skills to effectively manage and organize successful performances. This program serves as a robust foundation for those aspiring to pursue doctoral studies in conducting. Prospective students must undergo a conducting audition or submit a videotape as part of the application process.

For educators looking to continue teaching while working toward an advanced degree, we also offer a Master of Music, Concentration in Conducting, M.Mu. (Low Residency) program in a hybrid modality; fully online during the academic year (fall and spring) with in-person sessions during the Summer I Session (June).

Program Highlights

Guest Artists and Ensembles

The School of Music hosts renowned educators and professional musicians who offer concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students. We also have three resident ensembles: Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL.

Vibrant Location

Students have access to collaborations with local music ensembles like the Atlanta Music Project, renowned venues and ensembles like the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Atlanta Opera and performances in theaters, schools and churches. Additionally, the School of Music faculty’s regular involvement in major conferences and professional performances opens doors for students to network and establish connections within the city’s diverse and thriving music community.

Studios and Resources

Students enjoy round-the-clock access to private and semi-private practice spaces, fostering creative exploration and rehearsals. The School of Music boasts six cutting-edge recording studios equipped with Pro Tools and other advanced software, providing professional-level resources for audio production.

College to Career

With ample performance opportunities, rigorous training and mentorship from distinguished faculty, students gain invaluable experience and artistic refinement. The program’s strong emphasis on practical experience, including graduate assistantships and podium time with ensembles, prepares graduates for job placements with a track record of 100% job placement over the past decade.

VIEW NOTABLE ALUMNI

Career Outlook

Graduates with a Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting from GSU can pursue diverse and fulfilling careers. They may become Wind Band Directors, shaping musical development in educational institutions, or Music Educators, teaching instrumental techniques at different levels. Opportunities also exist in leading music programs in churches as Church Music Directors. Graduates can excel as Professional Wind Band Conductors, contributing to high-level performances, and may explore roles in arts administration. The program’s comprehensive training also prepares individuals for advanced studies at the doctoral level. Overall, the degree equips graduates for versatile roles in the music industry, combining artistic proficiency with educational and leadership skills.

Teacher with orchestra

Program Details

Please note: You must apply to both the Georgia State Graduate School and the School of Music.

Required University Application Materials:

  • Transcript(s): Upload unofficial copies of transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. The institution logo and your name must be present on the copies. Official transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program.
  • Official TOEFL/IELT Scores (international applicants only): Institutional code 5251 should be used for reporting TOEFL scores.
  • Personal/Goal Statement: Please provide a statement of your educational and career goals (be as specific as possible).
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the online Slate application.
  • Writing Sample: Provide a scholarly/research paper on a subject in the field of music of a level of intellectual and critical engagement appropriate to graduate-level work.
  • Letters of recommendation: 2 letters of recommendation are required. Applicants must enter the names and contact information of the 2 recommenders within the application. An electronic recommendation request will be sent to recommenders, and recommendation letters must be submitted via this request. It is strongly advised that letters of recommendation are completed before the application deadline and are written within the last year. Recommendations submitted after this date are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
  • GPA: Students considered for admission into the graduate program generally have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Get started on the Graduate School Application.

School of Music Application Materials: Complete the “Start an Application” fields to view your specific application and audition requirements for the School of Music

Use the HOW TO APPLY link below when you are ready to apply to the Music School.

For all MM concentrations:
Applicants must have a Bachelor of Music degree. The graduate committee will consider applicants without a Bachelor of Music degree on a case-by-case basis. All graduate applicants will be considered for a graduate assistantship (except for Low-Residency Conducting MM applicants) based on their audition, their application materials and their academic transcripts.

For all AC concentrations:
Applicants must have a Master of Music degree. The graduate committee will consider applicants without a Master of Music degree on a case-by-case basis.

The Master’s in Wind Band Conducting concentration at GSU offers an immersive and comprehensive curriculum for aspiring wind band conductors. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that cover areas such as conducting technique, score analysis, rehearsal strategies, wind band literature and ensemble leadership.

Through hands-on podium experience and collaborations with talented wind musicians, students refine their skills in leading and interpreting wind band works. The curriculum includes conducting masterclasses, ensemble rehearsals and performances with various wind bands, providing valuable opportunities for practical application and growth. Students receive personalized guidance and mentorship from experienced faculty who are accomplished conductors themselves.

The program fosters a deep understanding of musical interpretation, communication and collaboration specifically within the wind band context, preparing graduates for successful careers as wind band conductors in educational institutions, professional ensembles and community bands.

For detailed requirements, see the course catalog.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education, and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees: There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The Georgia State School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

  • Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
  • Honoring the continuing traditions of music making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
  • Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
  • Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Contacts

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]
404-413-5965

Administrative Specialist, Graduate
[email protected]

School of Music
75 Poplar St, 5th floor
Atlanta, GA 30303

College of the Arts Logo35 Broad St., 4th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30303