Overview

The Piano Studies programme at Western Michigan University provides a comprehensive environment for postgraduate musicians to refine their technical mastery and artistic expression. This curriculum is designed to support students in reaching their highest potential as both professional performers and dedicated music educators.

Students engage in a rigorous academic schedule that balances individual practice with collaborative performance opportunities. The environment fosters creative growth, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the complexities of the modern musical landscape through intensive training and regular public performance engagements.

Why Piano Studies at Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University is distinguished as one of only two All-Steinway Schools in the state of Michigan, providing students with access to premier instruments. The institution offers a unique conservatory-style atmosphere while maintaining the accessibility and resources of a major public research university.

The School of Music maintains a close relationship with the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival, allowing students to interact with and learn from world-renowned visiting artists. Learners benefit from weekly individual lessons with expert faculty, regular studio classes, and a variety of collaborative settings to showcase their talent.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15620 per year
National fee: USD 15620 per year
Local fee: USD 10414 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on advanced musicality and professional preparation. Modules may include:

Piano Performance
Music Education
Jazz Studies
Composition
Music Therapy
Collaborative Piano
Studio Class

Careers with Piano Studies

Graduates of this programme are equipped for diverse professional paths within the global music industry. Many pursue careers as concert soloists, chamber musicians, or collaborative accompanists in various professional settings. The training also prepares students for roles in music education and pedagogy.

Beyond performance, the skills acquired support careers in music therapy, composition, and arts administration. The comprehensive nature of the training ensures that alumni can adapt to various roles within orchestras, private studios, and higher education institutions worldwide.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Concert Band
Musicology
University Orchestra
Applied Music
Music Ensemble

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Kalamazoo, United States

Disciplines

Music Musicology View 1017 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

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Copy of passport identification page.
$100 non-refundable application fee.
Proof of sufficient funds for the first academic year of study according to estimated cost of attendance.
Completed application form (including a resume/curriculum vitae, written statement, and contact information for letters of recommendation).

Official transcript from the institution from which you received your bachelor degree is required, as well as a transcript from the institution where any additional graduate level courses or degrees have been taken/completed. Applicants are not required to submit an official transcript of courses taken/completed at WMU.

It's required you audition for the Piano Area. For international students, a recorded audition may be considered.
Entering students will be required to take exams in music history and literature and music theory.

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

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Out-of-State

15620 USD / year

≈ 15620 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10414 USD / year

≈ 10414 USD / year

Additional Details

Local Summer: 2,386 International Summer: 3,579

Living costs

Kalamazoo

United States

1000 - 1500 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 Piano Studies.

Available Scholarships

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

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Kalamazoo

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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