The master of music in conducting degree is a summer-only program offered through the American Band College. It combines an intense study of pedagogy, research, theory, and history to be completed in three years. Candidates must be admitted to graduate studies at SOU. For general information about graduate programs at SOU, please consult the Graduate Studies section of this catalog.

Admission

In addition to meeting the requirements for admission to a graduate degree program, students must take an examination prior to admission. Results of the entrance examination will determine any necessary remedial work and serve as the basis for practical application credits.

Classes

All courses offered under the American Band College summer program are required for three summers. These include four daily lectures and two daily performances in the ABC Director’s Band. Completion of written examinations is required. Only ABC summer class credits taken under examination may be included in the 18-credit block listed above.

Exit Examination

In addition to the written examination, candidates must complete a demonstration final on July 5 of the summer during which all coursework is completed. The purpose of the examination is to demonstrate the candidate’s ability to successfully perform start-up lessons with a beginner on clarinet, horn, and snare drum and to diagnose specific controlled problems encountered in a rehearsal band (comprises all other ABC master’s degree candidates).