Program Overview

Program Details

The Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University offers various programs for students interested in pursuing a career in music. The programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in music, including performance, education, and research.

Master of Music: Music Education

The Master of Music in Music Education is a one-year program that requires prescreening materials, including a résumé, video recording, and letters of recommendation. The program is designed for students who have a background in music education and are looking to advance their careers.

Prescreening Requirements

• A résumé that reflects professional accomplishments, including music teacher certification and evidence of teaching experience.
• A video recording that demonstrates teaching ability and musicianship.
• Two letters of recommendation from school principals, superintendents, music supervisors, advisors, or other teaching professionals.
• An essay on one of the following topics:
  1. What characteristic of today’s music education programs do you find to be the most compelling and successful? Where do you see the greatest need for change or innovation?
  2. As a current or future music educator, what long-range goals do you have for students in your music program or classes? What should a student in your program know and be able to do before they move to the next level?
  3. What is the purpose of research in music education? Describe one area of research that is of interest to you.

Interview Process

If prescreening materials are reviewed favorably, students will be contacted to set up an interview with a member of the Music Education faculty. A final interview is required.

Other Degrees

The Bienen School of Music also offers other degrees, including:

• Master of Music: Music Education (2 year w/certification)
• Bachelor of Music: Music Education

Areas of Study

The Bienen School of Music offers various areas of study, including:

• Brass
• Composition & Music Technology
• Conducting & Ensembles
• Jazz Studies
• Music Education
• Music Theory & Cognition
• Musicology
• Percussion
• Piano
• Strings, Harp & Guitar
• Voice & Opera
• Woodwinds

Faculty

The faculty at the Bienen School of Music are experienced professionals in their fields, with expertise in areas such as:

• All Faculty
• Brass
• Composition & Music Technology
• Conducting & Ensembles
• Faculty Emeriti
• Jazz Studies
• Music Education
• Music Theory & Cognition
• Musicology
• Nonmajor
• Percussion
• Piano
• Strings, Harp & Guitar
• Voice & Opera
• Woodwinds

Concerts & Events

The Bienen School of Music hosts various concerts and events throughout the year, including:

• Concerts & Events Calendar
• Subscription Series
• Ticket Office & Information
• Live Stream
• Bienen Ensembles
• Recitals & Lectures
• Festivals & Series

Davee Media Library

The Davee Media Library offers a variety of resources, including:

• All Videos
• Bands
• Choirs
• Jazz
• Lectures & Interviews
• Master Classes
• New Music
• Opera
• Orchestras
• Recitals & Chamber Music
• Visiting Artists

About

The Bienen School of Music is committed to providing a comprehensive education in music, with a focus on performance, education, and research. The school values excellence, innovation, and community, and is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff.