Degree Requirements

Master of Music: Piano Performance

A typical program includes six quarters of piano, recital, repertories, or research; at least one secondary course in piano performance; and other electives. The faculty encourages MM students to perform as frequently as possible while at Northwestern in addition to the mandatory recitals.

Sample Course Plan

Always check with the Program Coordinator for program requirements.

Year 1

Fall

Winter

Spring

Applied Lessons (461)

Applied Lessons (461)

Applied Lessons (461)

Piano Repertoire (313-1)

Piano Repertoire (313-2)

Piano Repertoire (313-3)

Music Elective or Intro to Music Research

Music Studies Elective or Intro to Music Research

Music Studies Elective or Intro to Music Research

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Recital Hour (340)

Piano Elective*

Recital (480)

 

Recital Hour (340)

Recital Hour (340)

Year 2

Fall

Winter

Spring

Applied Lessons (461)

Applied Lessons (461)

Applied Lessons (461)

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Chamber Music or Accompanying*

Piano Elective*

Piano Elective*

Piano Elective*

Music Elective

Music Studies Elective or Music Elective

Recital (480)

Recital Hour (340) 

Recital Hour (340)

Recital Hour (340)

*two units from Chamber Music/Accompanying and Piano Electives must be at the 400 level

Admission to Candidacy

Students are admitted to the Bienen School of Music as applicants for the Master of Music degree, but are not candidates for the degree until they have passed the requirements for becoming a candidate. Admission to candidacy for the Master of Music in Piano is confirmed by playing a qualified jury for the faculty by the end of the third quarter in residence. 

Piano Recitals

Students register for 480 recital for zero credit in the quarter that the recital is given. A permission hearing is required for all piano recitals. The studio professor or a faculty-designated substitute must attend and pass the student on the recital. Students who do not present their recitals during their residency should pursue Recital Continuation. 

Download Degree Checklist

Questions?

Contact Graduate Services: 
musicgradservices@northwestern.edu 
847-491-5740