

The Master of Music in Choral Conducting is a two-year, full-time program designed for musicians who seek advanced training in the art and practice of leading vocal ensembles. The program emphasizes both technical proficiency and artistic interpretation, enabling students to conduct choirs with precision, expressiveness, and stylistic awareness. Coursework combines studies in score analysis, rehearsal techniques, vocal pedagogy, and choral literature, offering a comprehensive understanding of conducting across diverse musical genres. Students explore historical and contemporary choral works, develop ensemble communication skills, and refine their ability to shape performances that are both musically compelling and technically accurate.
In addition to classroom instruction, students gain hands-on experience through rehearsals, public performances, and collaborative projects with choirs, orchestras, and vocal ensembles. Faculty members, who are experienced conductors and educators, provide individualized mentorship and guide students in refining their gesture, interpretive choices, and leadership presence. Students also study conducting in the context of community outreach, music education, and interdisciplinary performance settings, preparing them to engage with both professional and amateur ensembles. By the end of the program, graduates possess the skills to lead rehearsals, design concert programs, and inspire vocal ensembles at the highest artistic level.
Semester 1 – Foundations of Choral Conducting
• Conducting Technique and Gesture
• Choral Literature I
• Vocal Pedagogy and Ensemble Training
• Score Analysis
Semester 2 – Applied Conducting and Interpretation
• Choral Rehearsal Techniques
• Conducting Practicum I
• Choral Literature II
• Performance Workshop
Semester 3 – Advanced Conducting Practice
• Conducting Seminar and Masterclass
• Conducting Practicum II
• Orchestral Collaboration for Choral Conductors
• Elective (e.g., Contemporary Choral Music, Music Theory)
Semester 4 – Capstone and Professional Development
• Graduate Recital or Public Concert
• Conducting Portfolio Development
• Leadership in Choral Ensembles
• Professional Practice Seminar
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers as choral conductors, ensemble directors, vocal coaches, music educators, and program coordinators in schools, universities, professional choirs, community ensembles, and cultural institutions. They may also work in performance production, leading ensembles for recordings, concerts, or festivals. With comprehensive training in interpretation, rehearsal management, and ensemble leadership, graduates are equipped to shape musical experiences that are both artistically rich and organizationally effective. Alumni can also pursue further academic research or doctoral studies in music conducting and pedagogy.
This program offers a focused and immersive environment for developing conducting expertise, artistic vision, and leadership skills in choral music. Students benefit from individualized instruction, extensive performance opportunities, and mentorship from experienced faculty, providing a professional and artistic foundation that is both rigorous and supportive. With access to diverse ensembles, rehearsal spaces, and collaborative projects, students refine their technique, interpretive abilities, and ensemble communication. The program prepares graduates to take on meaningful roles in professional and educational choral settings, combining musical excellence with effective leadership to inspire and shape vocal ensembles at the highest level.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States