Master of Music, Concentration in Orchestral Instrument Performance, M.Mu.

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

• Audition: View Audition Requirements
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the online Acceptd application.

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 Orchestral Instrumental Performance concentration at GSU offers an intensive and enriching curriculum for instrumentalists aiming to excel in orchestral performance. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that focus on advanced techniques, ensemble playing, orchestral repertoire and musical interpretation. Through individual lessons, masterclasses and ensemble rehearsals, students refine their technical proficiency, musicality and ensemble skills. The program provides ample performance opportunities, including collaborations with renowned guest artists and participation in diverse ensembles. Students also benefit from faculty mentorship and guidance, receiving personalized instruction to enhance their artistic development. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with the technical mastery, musical sensitivity and collaborative abilities required for successful careers as professional orchestral musicians.

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.