University General Course Catalog 2023-2024 
    
    Nov 24, 2024  
University General Course Catalog 2023-2024 ARCHIVED CATALOG: LINKS AND CONTENT ARE OUT OF DATE. CHECK WITH YOUR ADVISOR.

Music, D.M.A.


The Doctor of Musical Arts (D.M.A.) offers music performers and conductors an advanced degree plan of 60 units beyond the master of music degree. The program and courses meet National Association of Music standards and include shared core courses in musicology, theory and literature. We offer 3 tracks of study in both performance and conducting.

  • Performance (Strings, Voice, Instrumental),
  • Conducting (Wind, Orchestral, Choral).

The D.M.A. degree is the terminal degree for performers and conductors. Students who complete this program of study are qualified to seek jobs in colleges and universities. 

Contact Information


Louis Neibur, Professor
lniebur@unr.edu
(775)784-4061

School of Music
Church Fine Arts, Mail Stop 0226
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV 89557-0049

Program Objectives/Student Learning Outcomes


Graduates of the Doctor of Musical Arts program will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to perform and/or conduct at a professional level, supported by a breadth of pedagogy, teaching strategies and an in-depth knowledge of the literature.
  • Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of musical literature and a breadth of pedagogical tools including teaching strategies.
  • Devise an appropriate and focused method of instruction for each level of applied study at the collegiate level.
  • Understand the rigors of the tenure system and the concept of committee work at the collegiate level in order to function successfully within the university workplace.
  • Demonstrate the ability to research and write in a scholarly manner in their area of expertise.
  • Demonstrate the ability to understand and synthesize historical and stylistic analysis and performance practice through oral and written presentations pertaining to their individual areas of specialization. Such work will contribute to the body of scholarly knowledge, inform their own teaching practices, and provide a pathway of satisfactory progress towards tenure in the areas of scholarly and creative activity.
  • Demonstrate a breadth and depth of knowledge of advanced courses in music theory, history and literature. Such study provides a foundation of understanding for the entire music discipline, and is an expectation of a collegiate music professor regardless of specialization.

Admission Requirements


In addition to the general admission requirements of the Graduate School , applicants to the D.M.A. program must meet the following criteria:

  • Successfully complete a performance/conducting audition. 
  • Pass the music theory and musicology entrance exams.
  • Have completed a Master of Music (M.M.), Master of Arts (M.A.), or Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) degree.

I. Program Requirements (60 units)


A. Shared Studies Coursework (15 units)


1. Required Course (3 units)


For those who have not taken for MM (If already taken then students may take 3 credits of electives)

2. Theory (3 units)


Students may take either course unless they have already taken one at the Master’s level at UNR, in which case the student should take the other class.

B. Recital (12 units)


1. Instrumental/String (12 units)


3 units, repeated 4 times, consisting of:

  • 3 Recitals (9 units) of which 1 must be a lecture recital
  • Recording project equivalent to a full-length CD (with possible video component) (3 units)

2. Vocal (12 units)


3 units, repeated 4 times, consisting of:

  • 3 Recitals (9 units) of which 1 must be a lecture recital; students may substitute a leading opera role for one of the recitals
  • Recording project equivalent to a full-length CD (with possible video component) (3 units)

3. Conducting (12 units)


At least one full recital and one lecture recital; the other 6 units can consist of various guest conducting appearances.

All recitals/guest conducting appearances must be approved by the student’s D. M. A. committee.

C. Final Requirements (5 units)


D. Area Specific Requirements (28 units)


1. Strings (28 units)


2. Instrumental (28 units)


  • Applied Lessons (12 units) (4 semesters of 3-unit lessons)
  • Major ensemble (4 units) (chamber music can count for piano majors)
  • Chamber Music (2 units)
  • Major Ensemble or Chamber Music (2 units)
  • (1 unit)
  • (3 units)
  • Electives (3 units)
  • Independent Study (1 unit)
  • Piano students are strongly encouraged to take MUS 683: Piano Seminar in lieu of one semester of Major Ensemble or Chamber Music

3. Voice (28 units)


4. Orchestral Conducting (28 units)


5. Choral Conducting (28 units)


6. Wind Conducting (28 units)