Brass students performing in a Mead Witter School of Music Wind Ensemble Concert

The mission of the Mead Witter School of Music is:

  • to provide a rich, integrated program of undergraduate and graduate education that promotes the highest levels of professional, creative, and scholarly development while challenging students to achieve their greatest potential;
  • to cultivate an environment that inspires creativity, stimulates intellectual curiosity, and fosters critical thinking; and
  • to serve the university community, the public, and the profession through performance, composition, scholarship, music education, outreach, and engagement.

The Mead Witter School of Music  enriches students' educational experience by hosting guest artists and scholars for master classes, recitals, colloquia, seminars, and festivals. Its performing organizations and ensembles perform more than 350 recitals and concerts every year, making a significant contribution to the cultural life of the university and the wider Madison community.

Mead Witter School of Music views its goals and objectives as complementary to those of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, which include "to provide an environment in which faculty and students can discover, examine critically, preserve and transmit the knowledge, wisdom and values that will help ensure the survival of the present and future generations with improvement in the quality of life." 

The University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), and has been an institutional member of NASM since 1966.

Degrees and Majors

After completing their degree, some master's degree students may be interested in application to the DMA (doctor of musical arts) program. Entrance to the DMA program is upon recommendation of the faculty of the relevant performance area and usually requires an audition. No new application to the Graduate School or to the Mead Witter School of Music is required.

The DMA and the Ph.D. are the highest degrees conferred by the Mead Witter School of Music. The DMA is granted for evidence of general proficiency and distinctive attainment in a specialized field of performance. The student's ability in independent investigation is demonstrated through a series of recitals and in a final project presenting original research or creative scholarship.

Each degree pathway varies slightly, and details are provided in the course lists available through the Requirements tab. Contact the Mead Witter School of Music graduate office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu, for complete explanations of the M.M.–Music: Performance degree.

The M.M.–Music: Performance degree offers tracks for many major specialties, instrumental and vocal. Faculty members in the appropriate area designate a major professor for each new student the first semester of enrollment. Whenever possible the faculty strive to match the student with the major professor if the applicant to the program has indicated a preference. 

Students normally take four semesters (two calendar years) to complete the degree requirements, including the final recital. There are two committees of faculty that assess the student's achievement of learning outcomes: the recital committee and the examination committee. The student consults with the major professor to determine the membership of the recital committee. The examination committee administers the comprehensive examination in the final semester in which the student fulfills course requirements. More details are accessible through the Policies tab or in the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook, which lists all academic policies and procedures in music graduate programs. All students need to be familiar with the Graduate School's Academic Policies and Procedures.

Mentoring of students is of prime importance to faculty members at Mead Witter School of Music. The faculty advisor and the director of graduate studies both guide the student's course planning. While each faculty member has a unique style, every student can be assured of abundant time working closely with more than one mentor in addition to the advisor during the course of a UW–Madison degree program. Take some time to access the Overview tab and review the Mead Witter School of Music mission statement, as well as the information available through the Learning Outcomes tab. These offer a glimpse of the values shared among the faculty and staff.

Please consult the table below for key information about this degree program’s admissions requirements. The program may have more detailed admissions requirements, which can be found below the table or on the program’s website.

Graduate admissions is a two-step process between academic programs and the Graduate School. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements of the Graduate School as well as the program(s). Once you have researched the graduate program(s) you are interested in, apply online.

Fall Deadline December 1
Spring Deadline The program does not admit in the spring.
Summer Deadline The program does not admit in the summer.
GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) Not required.
English Proficiency Test Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements (https://grad.wisc.edu/apply/requirements/#english-proficiency). Every international student from a non-English speaking country must submit a TOEFL score of 85 or higher. The Mead Witter School of Music does NOT waive the TOEFL requirement for students who have completed a degree at an American university.
Other Test(s) (e.g., GMAT, MCAT) n/a
Letters of Recommendation Required 3

Minimum admission requirements of the Graduate School apply to all applicants for graduate study in music. The Mead Witter School of Music has additional requirements. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree in music or equivalent foundational course work as required by each area of study. An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale, calculated on the last 60 credit hours) is necessary for full admission. The M.M. program involves substantial academic work and requires excellent reading, writing, and speaking skills. Therefore, all international students are required to submit a TOEFL score. See the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions website for information on minimum score requirements. The Mead Witter School of Music does not waive the TOEFL score requirement for students who have completed a degree at an American university. Typically, performance applicants are required to audition in person. For details on specific audition requirements and additional application materials, visit the School of Music graduate admissions website.

Graduate School Resources

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid. Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Program Resources

Through the generosity of Paul J. Collins, the Mead Witter School of Music is the recipient of a substantial fellowship fund which, in combination with the Graduate School and UW Foundation, allows the school to offer multiple-year funding to the highest quality graduate students in performance. The Collins fellowships, along with The Lorna Wendt and Anonymous Fund Fellowships for Choral and Voice students, are offered as Wisconsin Distinguished Fellowships and provide full tuition and fees, a generous stipend, additional funds, and comprehensive health care. Nomination by a performance faculty member—usually following an on-site audition—is required for consideration.

The Mead Witter School of Music also offers teaching and project assistantships in music history, music theory, piano, conducting, voice, and other performance areas. These positions offer tuition remission plus a salary and health care benefits. In addition, the Mead Witter School of Music selects qualified applicants for the Chancellor’s Fellowship, Graduate School Fellowship, and Advanced Opportunity Fellowship. The UW–Madison Office of Student Financial Aid assists students in obtaining general grants and loans. All Mead Witter School of Music students who receive funding are required to enroll full-time with 8–12 graduate credits.

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

Review the Graduate School minimum academic progress and degree requirements, in addition to the program requirements listed below.

Major Requirements

MODE OF INSTRUCTION

Face to Face Evening/Weekend Online Hybrid Accelerated
Yes No No No No

Mode of Instruction Definitions

Accelerated: Accelerated programs are offered at a fast pace that condenses the time to completion. Students typically take enough credits aimed at completing the program in a year or two.

Evening/Weekend: ​Courses meet on the UW–Madison campus only in evenings and/or on weekends to accommodate typical business schedules.  Students have the advantages of face-to-face courses with the flexibility to keep work and other life commitments.

Face-to-Face: Courses typically meet during weekdays on the UW-Madison Campus.

Hybrid: These programs combine face-to-face and online learning formats.  Contact the program for more specific information.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online.  Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Credit Requirement 34 credits
Minimum Residence Credit Requirement 16 credits
Minimum Graduate Coursework Requirement 17 credits must be graduate-level coursework. Details can be found in the Graduate School’s Minimum Graduate Coursework (50%) policy (https://policy.wisc.edu/library/UW-1244).
Overall Graduate GPA Requirement 3.25 GPA required.
Other Grade Requirements Grades below B cannot count toward program credit.

Mead Witter School of Music financial awards are suspended if a student is on probation for more than one semester.

A student’s satisfactory progress is also in jeopardy should a major recital be judged incomplete or deficient. Failure of one or more parts of the comprehensive examinations is also considered a lapse in satisfactory progress.
Assessments and Examinations In addition to evaluations in individual classes, School of Music programs examine graduate students at defined points in their career.

For master’s students, comprehensive examinations measure the candidate’s range of musical knowledge in both fields of music history and the major.
Language Requirements The Vocal Performance and Opera curricular paths have language requirements detailed below.

Required COURSES

The following chart outlines the course requirements for all of the available M.M.–music performance degrees. Note that each one has particular requirements, and that the total credits vary among majors. Important academic policy information is available through the Policies tab, in the Mead Witter School of Music Graduate Handbook, and in the Graduate School's Academic Academic Policies and Procedures. You may direct any questions about the coursework or required proficiencies to the Mead Witter School of Music graduate admissions office, gradadmissions@music.wisc.edu

Brass Path1

Master's Level Brass Instrument Applied Study8
Select the course corresponding to the major instrument (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester)
Masters Level-Horn
Masters Level-Trumpet
Masters Level-Trombone
Masters Level-Euphonium
Masters Level-Tuba
Master's Recital4
Enroll in this course in place of Applied Study in the recital semester:
Masters Recital
Ensemble4
Enroll in an ensemble every semester. 2
Advanced Ensemble-Brass 3
Contemporary Chamber Ensemble
Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (horn majors only)
Large Performance Ensemble2
2 semesters, 1 credit each
Eligible courses include the following:
University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Wind Ensemble
Concert Band
Instrumental Literature2
Seminar-Instrumental Literature 4
Musicology and Music Theory9
9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include: 5
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible courses in music theory include: 6
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective Courses5
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless first approved by the Brass area faculty. Each ensemble may be taken for two semesters.

3

Sections of this course that are eligible include: Brass Quintet, Horn Choir, Tuba Quartet/Ensemble, Trumpet Ensemble, Trombone Choir/Quartet. Each ensemble may be taken for two semesters. Note that the courses MUSIC 573 Contemporary Chamber Ensemble and MUSIC 565 Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind may also fulfill this requirement. Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless first approved by the Brass area faculty.

4

MUSIC 799 Independent Work (two credits) or two semesters of MUSIC 567 Advanced Ensemble-Brass (1 credit) may also be eligible, with approval of major professor.

5

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

6

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Choral Conducting Path1

Conducting Applied Study8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
Advanced Conducting Seminar
Other Required Major Courses8
Seminar in Choral Literature (2 semesters required)
Choral Ensemble4
Concert Choir (taken 4 times for 1 credit)
Recital2
Masters Recital
Music Reference and Research Materials3
Music Research Methods and Materials
Musicology and Music Theory9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison
Eligible musicology courses include: 2
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
Orchestration I
Orchestration II
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Collaborative Piano Path1

Applied Study8
4 semesters minimum, 2 credits each semester:
Advanced Accompanying
Recitals2
Two recitals: 1 vocal, 1 instrumental; 1 credit each
Masters Recital
Masters Recital
Vocal and Instrumental Accompanying8-11
All students take the following two courses:
Piano Accompanying Lab (2 semesters required) 2
Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature
For emphasis in Vocal Accompanying the following three courses are required:
Language Diction for Singing I
Language Diction for Singing II
Opera Workshop
For emphasis in Instrumental Accompanying the following two courses are required:
Diction for Singers
plus 1 semester from the following courses:
Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind
Advanced Ensemble-Brass
Advanced Ensemble-Percussion
Advanced Ensemble-String
Vocal Literature2
Repertoire (Vocal Repertoire, 2 credits) 3
Seminar in Vocal Literature
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 4
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses 62-5
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

This course requirement is waived for students with a TA or PA appointment in accompanying.

3

Contact the graduate office or the voice faculty for information on the schedule for planned offerings of these courses.

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

5

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

6

Elective course credits should bring the total number of School of Music course credits to a minimum of 30.

Composition Path1

Composition Applied Study9
3 semesters minimum, 3 credits each semester
Masters Level Composition
Thesis–Composition (Project)3
To be taken in the final semester of study, after three semesters of the above composition courses are completed. Attendance at Composition Master Class is required of composition majors enrolled in Master's Thesis.
Masters Thesis
Courses in Musicology6
Eligible musicology courses include: 2
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Courses in Music Theory6
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Composition Electives 46
Orchestration I
Seminar in Composition (topics course; may be repeated for credit)
Other Electives4
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

4

Other courses may be eligible for this requirement, by approval of the major professor.

Guitar Path1

Master's Level Guitar Applied Study8
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester
Masters Level-Guitar
Recital4
Enroll in this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital
Ensemble2
2 semesters
Advanced Ensemble-Classical Guitar
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 2
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses11
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Opera Path1

Master's Level Voice Applied Study8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
Masters Level-Voice
Opera Workshop4
2 semesters, 2 credits each semester
Opera Workshop
Opera Performance2
One major opera role, determined by major professor
Masters Recital (2 credits)
Opera Study Project with Director of Opera2
Independent Work
Advanced Diction 24
Language Diction for Singing I 3
Language Diction for Singing II 3
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 4
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 5
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses5
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Language Proficiency
Prior to graduation the voice and opera faculty must certify that a candidate has a level of proficiency in French, Italian, and German that is equivalent to successfully completing one year (two semesters) of college-level coursework. The major professor in voice and the director of opera will determine proficiency through review of prior coursework and/or proficiency examination.
Consult the voice faculty and the director of graduate studies for information on ways in which the language proficiency requirement may be satisfied.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

All or part of this requirement may be waived on discretion of the voice faculty; student must have had equivalent training in prior study. The voice faculty administers a qualifying examination to determine proficiency in diction. 

3

This course sequence is offered only once every two years. Consult the graduate office or voice area faculty to plan accordingly. 

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

5

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Orchestral Conducting Path1

Conducting Applied Study8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each
Advanced Conducting
Conducting Laboratory4
Graduate Instrumental Conducting Laboratory
Recital4
Masters Recital 2
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
Orchestration I (required)
Among the remaining 6 credits, at least one course must be in Musicology. A total of 9 credits (including MUSIC 523, required) must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include: 3
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses9
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

At the discretion of the conducting faculty, the number of credits per semester for Master's Recital may vary, but the total recital credits in the program must be 4 credits. The alternate course 660-799 may be used for this requirement as necessary,

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Percussion Path1

Master's Level Percussion Applied Study8
2 semesters, 4 credits each semester
Masters Level-Percussion
Recital4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital
Literature2
Repertoire (taken once for 2 credits)
Percussion Literature
Ensemble2
Ensemble: 2 semesters required.
Advanced Ensemble-Percussion 2
Large Performance Ensemble2
2 semesters required. Select from:
University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Wind Ensemble
Concert Band
Musicology and Music Theory9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses7
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

With permission of the percussion faculty, other ensembles may substitute for MUSIC 568 Advanced Ensemble-Percussion.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Piano Performance Path1

Master's Level Piano Applied Study8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
Masters Level-Piano
Recitals8
Enroll for these courses in place of Master’s Level Piano in the recital semesters—there are two recitals.
For the Solo Recital:
Masters Recital (solo recital, 4 credits)
For the Chamber Music Recital:
Masters Thesis (2 credits, enrolled with major professor)
Advanced Accompanying (2 credits)
Piano Pedagogy3
Select from the following courses:
Piano Pedagogy II 2
Class Piano Pedagogy
Seminar in Piano Pedagogy (topics course; may be repeated for credit)
Piano Literature3
Select from the following courses:
Seminar in Piano Literature
Repertoire
Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective credits3
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Eligibility for enrolling in this class is contingent upon the student's having taken MUSIC 340 Pedagogy or equivalent. For this requirement MUSIC 340 does not count toward fulfilling the total 9 credit minimum.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Piano Performance and Pedagogy Path1

Master's Level Piano Applied Study4
Masters Level-Piano (2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester)
An additional 4 credits selected from the following:4
Masters Level-Piano (4 credits minimum)
Advanced Accompanying
Recital4
Enroll in this course in the recital semester instead of MUS PERF 501 or MUS PERF 542.
Masters Recital
Pedagogy8
Select from the following, with advisor approval:
Piano Pedagogy II 2
Class Piano Pedagogy
Seminar in Piano Pedagogy
Piano Pedagogy Workshop
Special Topics in Music (topic: Teaching Music in the Private Studio, 2 credits) 3
Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Feldenkrais for Performing Artists, 1 credit) 4
Final Project1
Independent Work
Practicum1
Practicum in Advanced Studio Teaching-Piano
Piano Literature3
Select from the following:
Repertoire
Seminar in Piano Literature
Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature
Musicology and Music Theory9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 3
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Eligibility for enrolling in this class is contingent upon the student's having taken MUSIC 340 Pedagogy or equivalent. For this requirement MUSIC 340 does not count toward fulfilling the total 9 credit minimum.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

String Performance Path1

String Instrument Applied Study8
Enroll the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester:
Masters Level-Violin
Masters Level-Viola
Masters Level-Cello
Recital4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital
Orchestra2
2 semesters required from either of the following:
University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Ensemble2
2 semesters required in any of the following:
Advanced Ensemble-String
University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Pedagogy2
Select from the following courses:
Advanced String Pedagogy
Advanced String Pedagogy
Practicum in Advanced String Pedagogy
Advanced Pedagogy (instrumental)
Current Topics in Dance: Workshop (Feldenkrais for Performing Musicians)
Literature2
String Literature
Seminar in Duo Sonata Literature
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 2
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses5
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Vocal Performance Path1

Master's Level Voice Applied Study8
2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester
Masters Level-Voice
Recital4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital
Advanced Diction 24
Language Diction for Singing I 3
Language Diction for Singing II 3
Vocal Literature3
Seminar in Vocal Literature 3, 4
Vocal Pedagogy2
Seminar in Vocal Techniques 3
Ensemble2
Select from the following courses: 5
Collegium Musicum
Madrigal Singers
Concert Choir
Opera Workshop
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 6
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 7
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Language Proficiency
Prior to graduation the voice and opera faculty must certify that a candidate has a level of proficiency in French, Italian, and German that is equivalent to successfully completing one semester of college-level coursework in all three languages plus a second of one of these languages (a total of four semesters of college-level study). The major professor in voice and the director of opera will determine proficiency through review of prior coursework and/or proficiency examination.
Consult the voice faculty and the director of graduate studies for information on ways in which the language proficiency requirement may be satisfied.
Electives2
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

All or part of this requirement may be waived, should the student's diction proficiency is satisfactory in certain languages. The voice faculty will review past diction study or administer a qualifying examination to determine proficiency.

3

Consult the graduate office or the voice faculty for information on the schedule for planned offerings of this course.

4

MUSIC 346 Repertoire (Topic: Vocal Repertoire) or equivalent is a prerequisite for this course.

5

 Other ensembles may be eligible for this requirement, with voice faculty approval.

6

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

7

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Wind Conducting Path1

Conducting Applied Study8
2 semesters, 4 credits each
Advanced Conducting
Recital4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital 2
Conducting Laboratory4
4 semesters required
Graduate Instrumental Conducting Laboratory
Large Performance Ensemble2
Select from the following. 2 semesters minimum required.
Wind Ensemble
Concert Band
Musicology and Music Theory9
Orchestration I (required)
Among the remaining 6 credits, at least one course must be in Musicology. A total of 9 credits (including MUSIC 523, required) must be earned at UW-Madison
Eligible musicology courses include: 3
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 4
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses7
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

At the discretion of the conducting faculty, the recital credit may be fulfilled with c either 4 recitals at 1 credit each or 1 recital, 4 credits.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty

4

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Woodwind Performance Path1

Master's Level Woodwind Instrument Applied Study8
Select the course corresponding to the major instrument. 2 semesters minimum, 4 credits each semester.
Masters Level-Flute
Masters Level-Oboe
Masters Level-Clarinet
Masters Level-Saxophone
Masters Level-Bassoon
Recital4
Enroll for this course in place of Master’s Level Applied Study in the recital semester.
Masters Recital
Ensemble2
Advanced Ensemble-Woodwind (two semesters required)
Large Performance Ensemble2
Select from the following. Two semesters required.
University Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Orchestra
Wind Ensemble
Concert Band
Musicology and Music Theory Courses9
At least one course must be taken in Musicology and one in Music Theory. 9 credits must be earned at UW-Madison.
Eligible musicology courses include the following: 1
Musical Cultures of the World
Seminar: Cultural Study of Music
Survey of Music in the Middle Ages
Survey of Music in the Renaissance
Survey of Music in the Baroque Era
Survey of Music in the Classic Era
Survey of Music in the Romantic Era
Survey of Music in the Twentieth Century
Music in the United States
Historical Performance Practices
Survey of Opera
Proseminar in Ethnomusicology
Ethnographic Methods for Music and Sound
Historical Music Theories 1
Historical Music Theories 2
Seminar in Musicology
Seminar in Ethnomusicology
Seminar in Notation
Eligible music theory courses include the following: 3
Orchestration I
Renaissance Polyphony
Baroque Counterpoint
Form and Analysis
Form and Analysis II
Schenkerian Analysis
Post-tonal Analysis
Current Issues in Musical Thought 1
Topics in Music Analysis 1
Topics in Music Analysis 2
Seminar in Composition
Elective courses9
With advisor approval, choose courses in any department at the 300 level or above.
Total Credits34
1

These pathways are internal to the program and represent different curricular paths a student can follow to earn this degree. Pathway names do not appear in the Graduate School admissions application, and they will not appear on the transcript.

2

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the musicology faculty.

3

Other courses do not fulfill this requirement unless specifically approved by the music theory faculty.

Graduate School Policies

The Graduate School’s Academic Policies and Procedures provide essential information regarding general university policies. Program authority to set degree policies beyond the minimum required by the Graduate School lies with the degree program faculty. Policies set by the academic degree program can be found below.

Major-Specific Policies

Prior Coursework

Graduate Work from Other Institutions

No more than 6 credits may be approved for graduate coursework taken at other institutions.

UW–Madison Undergraduate

This program follows the Graduate School's policy for Satisfying Requirements with Coursework from Undergraduate Career at UW–Madison, but Mead Witter School of Music faculty rarely approve these exceptions.

UW–Madison University Special

The program allows up to 6 credits of UW-Madison University Special Student credit to count. Details can be found at the Graduate School's policy for Transfer from UW–Madison University Special Student Career at UW–Madison.

ProbatioN

M.M. students who fail to make satisfactory progress in any of the four following areas: grades, course load, time constraints, or exams, will be notified in writing by the DGS. At the end of the second semester of failing to make satisfactory progress the student is placed on probation effective the next semester. This action suspends financial aid (but does not affect loans or work-study). See details in the Satisfactory Progress for Master's Students.

ADVISOR / COMMITTEE

All programs provide for faculty from several disciplines to follow the student’s progress through the degree, provide mentorship along the way, and assess the student’s success in reaching expected learning outcomes. The principal advisor for most graduate students in the Mead Witter School of Music is generally referred to as the major professor. In all programs the major professor is determined with the student's particular interests in mind. In music performance programs, the faculty attempts, whenever possible. to assign the major professor based upon a student's request.

The director of graduate studies is also an advisor for all graduate students in Mead Witter School of Music programs. Students are expected to consult with the director of graduate studies at least once per semester to determine appropriate course plans. Consultation is mandatory in the semester before intended graduation.

CREDITS PER TERM ALLOWED

15 credits

Time Limits

M.M. and M.A. students not receiving University funding are expected to complete requirements and pass comprehensive examinations within seven years from the time of enrollment in the program. While graduate students may enroll on a part-time basis, this time constraint still applies.

All M.M. and M.A. students holding teaching assistant, project assistant, or fellowship appointments must complete requirements for the degree within four semesters (not counting summer sessions or thesis credits). If the appointment is more than 33.4% the expectation is to complete requirements in the sixth semester.

grievances and appeals

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:

Students should contact the department chair or program director with questions about grievances. They may also contact the L&S Academic Divisional Associate Deans, the L&S Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning Administration, or the L&S Director of Human Resources.

Other

n/a

Graduate School Resources

Take advantage of the Graduate School's professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career. 

College of Letters and Science Resources

The College of Letters and Science's SuccessWorks program can assist with professional development and with identifying opportunities.

  1. Communicates well-developed musical ideas clearly and energetically in performance and, where applicable, in compositions.
  2. Demonstrates knowledge of appropriate stylistic details in performance of music from a variety of historical periods and cultural origins.
  3. Draws upon extensive understanding of a variety of musical cultures and historical periods for the preparation of a performance or a composition.
  4. Selects the most appropriate methods of technique or notation to achieve the intended result in performance.
  5. Shows ability to express, verbally and in writing, musical ideas and interpretive conclusions to peers and colleagues.
  6. Recognizes and applies principles of ethical and professional conduct.
  7. Respects colleagues and values contributions of others in collaborative endeavors.

Faculty: Professors Cook (director), Calderón, Chisholm, Di Sanza, Dominguez, Fischer, Fulmer, Hetzler, Johnson, Karp, Perry, Rowe, Schwendinger, Taylor, Teeple, Thimmig, Vallon, Wallmann; Associate Professors Butler, Farah, Grabois, Ronis; Assistant Professors Chana, Cornish, Laurenz, Lee, Nelson, Rathgeber, Sans, Walsh; Marching Band Director Pompey; Teaching Faculty Brailey, Curry, Gladstone, Gonzalez, Koester, Rottmayer, Wohn; Lecturers Patenaude, Wienholts.

The faculty of the Mead Witter School of Music is a distinguished group of educators, performing musicians, and active scholars. The backgrounds of performance faculty include rich experiences as professional musicians, researchers, recording artists, and entrepreneurs. Faculty in music education have particular insight into their field as a result of their backgrounds as school educators, performers, and scholars. In areas such as music theory and musicology, the musical community has high regard for the past and current contributions to the study of musical theory, historical perspectives on music, the role of music in societies around the world, and the unique contributions of American musicians. Teaching is a priority for the faculty, who are readily accessible to students for advice and support. Faculty, staff, and students cooperate in extraordinary ways with joint ventures that reach across disciplines both in research or instruction. 

Accreditation

National Association of Schools of Music

Accreditation status: Accredited. Next accreditation review: 2022–2023