Overview

The Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting at Indiana University Bloomington offers a transformative educational experience for a select cohort of the world's most promising musical leaders. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that balances technical precision with artistic vision, ensuring they are prepared for the complexities of the modern podium. This programme is defined by its collaborative atmosphere and commitment to excellence in every facet of musical performance.

Participants benefit from an environment that mirrors the professional world, providing constant opportunities to refine their craft. The school’s diverse ecosystem allows conductors to work across various genres, including symphonic repertoire, opera, ballet, and contemporary music.

Why Orchestral Conducting at Indiana University Bloomington?

Students at the Jacobs School of Music gain unparalleled access to world-class faculty and professional resources. The programme is distinguished by the Conductors Orchestra, a dedicated ensemble that meets three times weekly specifically to provide graduate students with consistent, high-level podium time. This unique resource allows for the deep study of complex scores and the development of real-time leadership skills.

Beyond the classroom, the university maintains strong affiliations with prestigious organisations such as the Indianapolis Symphony and major orchestras in Chicago and Cincinnati. These partnerships facilitate masterclasses, rehearsal observations, and networking opportunities with industry pioneers. Additionally, the Office of Entrepreneurship and Career Development provides robust support to help students navigate the business aspects of a musical career.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 27271 per year
National fee: USD 27271 per year
Local fee: USD 27271 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum provides hands-on training in orchestral, operatic, and choral conducting. Students work extensively with faculty to master a broad range of repertoire, from classical masterpieces to contemporary premieres. Modules may include:

Orchestral Conducting
Opera Conducting
Ballet Conducting
Choral Conducting
Music Scoring for Visual Media
Artistic Leadership
Innovative Programming
Entrepreneurial Ventures

Careers with Orchestral Conducting

Graduates of this programme are equipped to shape the future of classical music and hold prominent positions worldwide. The comprehensive training in technique and leadership prepares students for a variety of high-impact roles within the arts sector. Alumni frequently secure positions such as:

Music Directors of professional orchestras
Assistant Conductors for major symphonic ensembles
Youth Orchestra Leaders
Faculty members at prestigious colleges and conservatories
Artistic Administrators and orchestral staff
Directors of collegiate music programmes

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Master’s Advanced Orchestral Conducting

Master’s Orchestral Conducting Performance

Master’s Seminar in Symphonic Literature

Music Career Development

Music and the Mind

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bloomington, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 1020 other Masters in Music in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

All persons with a bachelor’s degree in music from an accredited college, university, conservatory, or its demonstrated equivalent, are eligible to apply for admission to the Graduate Division of the Jacobs School of Music, which administers master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, diploma programs, and graduate certificates.
Bachelor’s degree equivalency is determined by the Indiana University Office of International Services for applicants who have completed their undergraduate studies abroad.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Out-of-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

27271 USD / year

≈ 27271 USD / year

Living costs

Bloomington

United States

1071 - 1733 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Orchestral Conducting.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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