MA in Historical Performance Practice

This program in early music (up to 1850) combines advanced study in performance, music history, and performance practices. Students should expect to spend two years in full-time study in Cleveland. 

Admission

Applicants with good academic records from fully accredited universities and colleges will be considered for admission to graduate study at Case Western Reserve University. Admission must be recommended by the department or professional school of the university in which the applicant proposes to study and must be approved by the dean of graduate studies. 

Admission to the program is granted to those who demonstrate a high level of early music performance skill and good scholarly potential. An audition is required. 

More information about the graduate application and audition process in music is provided in the Graduate Application Procedures.

Graduate Application Procedures

Program Requirements 

All programs are formulated to suit the needs of the individual student (based in part on a diagnostic examination taken upon entering the program) and require the consent of the Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Historical Performance Practice. A minimum of 21 hours of course work is required, together with 12 hours of applied music, proficiency in one relevant foreign language, and a lecture-recital (3 hours).

Find detailed program requirements, course distribution, and a sample plan of study in the General Bulletin

Degree Overlap

Students in this program who demonstrate exceptional accomplishment may petition to enter either the DMA in Historical Performance Practice or the PhD in Musicology program before the completion of the MA degree. On this possibility, see the Degree Overlap section in the General Bulletin

Music Handbook and Advising

Current graduate and professional students in music should review departmental policies and procedures in the Graduate Music Handbook. The handbook provides additional information regarding graduate assistantships, general expectations and responsibilities, program outcomes, decision points, performances, scholarly activity, outside work, prizes/awards, deadlines, petitions, examinations, advancement to candidacy, and student record-keeping.

Additional resources and forms are available on the Resources for Current Graduate and Professional Music Students.