University of Memphis (inactive) Music - Conducting Concentration, (DMA)
University of Memphis (inactive)

University of Memphis (inactive)

Music - Conducting Concentration, (DMA)

Memphis, USA

PhD

English

Full time

On-Campus

Key Summary

About: The Music – Conducting Concentration (DMA) at the University of Memphis is a doctoral program that develops advanced conducting skills and scholarly training. Coursework covers conducting techniques, music theory, history, pedagogy, research methods and score study, while conducting projects and performances build rehearsal technique and ensemble leadership. Students complete a dissertation that contributes research to music literature. The institution, founded in 1912, enrolls over 21,000 and attracts diverse faculty to Memphis campus.

Career Outcomes: Graduates can pursue careers in orchestral conducting, choral conducting, opera conducting, college or university faculty roles, ensemble direction, music research, arts administration and music pedagogy.

The PhD in Music with a Conducting Concentration is a doctoral program designed to develop advanced skills in conducting, complemented by comprehensive musical and scholarly training. The program emphasizes both practical conducting experience and scholarly research, preparing students for careers in academia, professional conducting, and leadership roles within musical organizations. Students typically engage in rigorous coursework that covers advanced conducting techniques, music theory, music history, and pedagogy, while also participating in frequent conducting projects and performances to refine their craft.

Beyond practical conducting skills, the program encourages scholarly inquiry, requiring students to complete a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field of music. The curriculum integrates coursework in music literature, research methodologies, and pedagogical approaches, ensuring graduates are well-rounded musicians and scholars. The program aims to cultivate highly skilled conductors who are capable of leading ensembles, conducting research, and contributing to the development of the field through both performance and academic pursuits.