The Graduate Certificate in Music Performance offers an intensive period of post-baccalaureate study in music performance or conducting. It is intended for exceptionally gifted and accomplished performers and conductors seeking professional performing careers, but not wishing to engage in academic studies required for a graduate degree. Study is available in woodwinds, brass, percussion, strings, piano, voice, organ, church music, jazz, carillon and conducting (band, orchestra and choir).
Admission Requirements
In addition to all University requirements for admission to graduate studies, students applying to the graduate certificate program must provide and/or meet the following program-specific requirements.
Program-Specific Requirements*
- A minimum of two letters of recommendation
- CV or Resume
- Statement of Purpose
- Audition (see audition requirements listed by instrument)
How to Apply
Non-music majors and non-degree‐seeking students are welcome to apply. Admission is managed through the School of Music’s graduate admissions process.
Current Music Graduate Degree-Seeking Students: Graduate students in good standing (non-probationary) may request to add the Music Performance certificate at any time during their course of study. There are no admission requirements for current music graduate students.
Current Graduate Students outside of Music: Non-music graduate students in good standing (non-probationary) who wish to be admitted to the Certificate program must apply directly to the certificate by completing the application to add a Graduate Certificate for current degree-seeking students (online form submission - no cost). Applicants will be invited to audition with the Area Coordinator for the program of interest, who will determine whether the student has the necessary background.
Certificate-Seeking Students (non-degree seeking): If applying directly to the Certificate program, you must apply directly to KU (online form submission, cost: $30). Applicants will be invited to audition with the Area Coordinator for the program of interest, who will determine whether the student has the necessary background.
Contact Information
A list of all course offerings can be found on the Schedule of Classes.
*These are the admission requirements in place at the time this catalog content was published.
At the completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate capacities to work independently and make effective artistic judgments.
- Demonstrate capacities to work collaboratively in a performing ensemble.
- Demonstrate comprehensive capabilities in the student's performing medium and the ability to complete a capstone recital.
