Orchestral

As a student in one of our orchestral conducting programs, you will become part of a very selective group of young conductors chosen to study with some of the world’s top conductors.

You’ll spend your days surrounded by advanced master’s and doctoral students who share your passion for music and conducting—and your commitment to being the best.

You’ll be part of a program that emphasizes both symphony and opera repertoire and offers the opportunity for instruction with the Conductor's Lab Orchestra three times a week.

And you’ll have the opportunity to conduct your own ad-hoc concerts, and serve as assistants to the faculty and visiting conductors within orchestral and operatic productions.

You’ll graduate ready to succeed on the world’s stage—anywhere that life takes you.

We’re home to one of the top orchestral conducting programs in the world—and we have the faculty to match. You’ll study with some of the world’s foremost conductors—talented individuals who have decided to share their expertise with the next generation of conducting professionals.

Each week, you’ll have at least three lessons with faculty. You’ll also have the opportunity to conduct with the conductors’ orchestras three times each week—working to expand your skills and repetoire.

You’ll benefit from an unparalleled university performance scene that includes six orchestras, a season of up to six fully-staged operas and three ballets, a vibrant new and early music programs, and artists in residence. 

One of our students is assigned to be an assistant conductor for every orchestral performance, giving you the opportunity to work with the large number of guest and faculty conductors who visit each semester. 

You’re also encouraged to take part in the eight "Ad Hoc" performances that occur each semester. These performances take place on Sunday afternoons, and are conducted by graduate students.

And of course, you’ll perform a graduate conducting recital, scheduled with a major university ensemble.