orchestra
What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework must be completed in 4 semesters (2 years)

Where will I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

Fall – February 1

Master of Music, Concentration in Choral Conducting, M.Mu.

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]
404-413-5965

The Georgia State University Master of Music with a concentration in Choral Conducting  program offers exceptional training to talented musicians wishing to study choral art at an advanced level. Intensive study with our faculty and regular performance experience is the foundation for developing highly qualified, professional conductors. Students in the program regularly conduct the Master Singers, an auditioned chamber choir of 20 to 30 voices in rehearsal and performance and assist with the other four choral ensembles (Treble Choir, Tenor-Bass Choir, University Singers and Choral Union).

What sets us apart?

Vibrant Downtown Music Scene

Students have access to collaborations with local music ensembles, renowned venues like the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and performances in theaters, schools and churches. Additionally, GSU’s choral program’s regular involvement in major conferences and their strong job placement record open doors for students to network and establish connections within the city’s diverse and thriving music community.

Conducting students in class

Conducting students in class

Guest Artists and Ensembles

The School of Music hosts renowned educators and professional musicians who offer concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students. We also have three resident ensembles: Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL.

College to Career

With ample performance opportunities, rigorous training and mentorship from distinguished faculty, students gain invaluable experience and artistic refinement. The program’s strong emphasis on practical experience, including graduate assistantships and podium time with choral ensembles, prepares graduates for job placements with a track record of 100% job placement over the past decade.

Program Details

Please note: You must apply to both the Georgia State Graduate School and the School of Music.

Required University Application Materials:

  • Transcript(s): Upload unofficial copies of transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. The institution logo and your name must be present on the copies. Official transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program.
  • Official TOEFL/IELT Scores (international applicants only): Institutional code 5251 should be used for reporting TOEFL scores.
  • Personal Statement:Statement can be up to 500 words in length (approximately 2-pages, double spaced, using 12-point font). Respond to the following prompt: Please discuss your academic and musical goals and your reasons for applying to GSU’s graduate music program.
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the online Slate application.
  • Writing Sample: Provide a scholarly/research paper on a subject in the field of music of a level of intellectual and critical engagement appropriate to graduate-level work.
  • Letters of recommendation: 2 letters of recommendation are required. Applicants must enter the names and contact information of the 2 recommenders within the application. An electronic recommendation request will be sent to recommenders, and recommendation letters must be submitted via this request. It is strongly advised that letters of recommendation are completed before the application deadline and are written within the last year. Recommendations submitted after this date are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
  • GPA: Students considered for admission into the graduate program generally have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Get started on the Graduate School Application.

School of Music Application Materials: Complete the “Start an Application” fields to view your specific application and audition requirements for the School of Music

  • Prescreening Audition: Applicants are required to submit a prescreening video audition containing at least 20 minutes of rehearsal and/or performance footage. Upload the video(s) within the Acceptd application.
  • Personal Statement: Statement can be up to 500 words in length (approximately 2-pages, double spaced, using 12-point font). Respond to the following prompt: Please discuss your academic and musical goals and your reasons for applying to GSU’s graduate music program. Upload within the Acceptd application.
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae: Upload within the Acceptd application.
  • International applicants: Virtual auditions may be arranged for applicants who cannot travel to the US.

Use the HOW TO APPLY link below when you are ready to apply to the Music School.

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree or concentration in music or the equivalent. Graduate Assistantships will be determined by both academic success and musical ability.

The Choral Conducting concentration at GSU offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop skilled and expressive choral conductors. Students in this program engage in a range of courses that cover areas such as conducting technique, score analysis, rehearsal strategies, vocal pedagogy and choral literature. Through ensemble participation, students gain practical experience in conducting choirs of various sizes and levels. The curriculum also includes opportunities to collaborate with renowned guest conductors and work with diverse vocal ensembles. Students receive personalized instruction and mentorship from experienced faculty, honing their conducting skills and musicianship. The program places a strong emphasis on musical interpretation, expressive communication and fostering a supportive choral community. Graduates of our Choral Conducting program emerge as versatile and accomplished conductors, ready to lead and inspire choral ensembles in educational, community and professional settings.

For detailed requirements, see the course catalog.

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees: There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from a graduate degree include:

  • Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
  • Honoring the continuing traditions of music-making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
  • Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
  • Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Career Outlook

Earning a master's degree in choral conducting from GSU can lead to various rewarding career opportunities within the field of music, particularly in choral music education and performance. Some potential career paths include:

  • Choral Director and Music Educator: Lead and conduct choirs in schools, colleges, universities and community organizations while also teaching choral music and vocal techniques at various educational levels, from K-12 to college.
  • Church Music Director and Professional Choral Conductor: Oversee and lead music programs in churches and religious institutions, directing choirs and congregational singing. Additionally, conduct professional-level choirs, chamber ensembles or vocal groups.

Conducting students in class

Contacts

Graduate Director
Dr. Lara Saville Dahl
[email protected]

Administrative Specialist, Graduate
[email protected]

School of Music
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Atlanta, GA 30303

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Atlanta, GA 30303