The Master of Music in Wind Conducting program is purposely small and selective, allowing for personal attention and frequent interactions with our faculty. This apprenticeship styled program seeks to develop pedagogical and artistic growth through an orchestral approach to wind conducting in professional music settings. In addition, graduate conducting students are directly involved in administrative, professional and entrepreneurial undertakings within our comprehensive band program. Graduate students are directly involved with all aspects of a team environment with our University Bands faculty and staff.
Receive abundant podium time
Our graduate students conduct at least one significant work per semester with the Nevada Wind Ensemble and two to three works per semester with the Nevada Concert Winds. Frequent opportunities for cover conducting occur throughout the year and in the third semester, students coordinate and conduct their own ad hoc chamber ensemble. Rehearsals are often used as opportunities for conducting and coaching, and video review of rehearsals is often incorporated into lessons. Plus, students with an interest in athletic band are offered teaching and drill writing opportunities.
Program overview
Course of study (two-year residency)
- Applied Conducting (4 semesters)
- Applied Choral or Orchestral Conducting (1 semester)
- Conducting Seminar (3 semesters)
- Applied Instrument Study (2 semesters)
- Ensemble Participation (4 semesters)
- Music History (2 semesters)
- Music Theory (1 semester)
- Graduate Seminar in Music (2 semesters)
Applied conducting study
An orchestral approach to wind ensemble conducting and performing instruction delivered through coaching with ensembles and in applied lessons. Focus areas include:
- Ear training, inner hearing and conducting technique guided by audiation
- Score learning, internalization and interpretation
- Podium leadership (primarily through gesture and artistic verbal feedback)
- Rehearsal technique and concept of ensemble sound
Assistantships and funding
- 20 hour/week teaching assistant position (administrative and teaching duties across all University Bands: wind ensembles and athletic bands)
- Salary of $16,000/year (10 month contract, renewable for two years)
- Healthcare at no extra cost
- Out-of-state tuition waiver and drastic in-state tuition reduction (tuition and fees are approximately $1,100 per semester)
How to apply
As soon as possible (December 15 deadline for priority consideration), send the following pre-screen materials via email to Reed Chamberlin:
- Video links from a performance and rehearsal
- Links to a recording (audio or video) of a short performance on the applicant’s principal instrument
- A sample of scholarly writing
- An updated CV and contact information for three professional references
Successful pre-screen candidates will be encouraged to apply to the University (February 1 deadline) and invited to campus for an interview, aural skills assessment and live conducting audition in February or early March.