Overview

The Instrumental Performance programme at Oakland University offers a comprehensive curriculum for musicians seeking to reach the highest levels of artistic excellence. This Master of Music degree provides a rigorous environment where students can cultivate their unique musical voice while mastering complex orchestral literature.

Each student receives individualised attention through applied study, ensuring that technical development is paired with deep interpretive understanding. The curriculum is structured to balance solo performance with collaborative ensemble work, preparing graduates for the diverse demands of the professional music industry.

The School of Music, Theatre and Dance provides a vibrant creative community supported by expert faculty and modern rehearsal spaces.

Why Instrumental Performance at Oakland University?

The institution is recognised for its dedicated School of Music, Theatre and Dance, which serves as a hub for artistic innovation and professional training. Facilities include specialised performance halls and practice rooms designed to meet the needs of high-level instrumentalists.

Teaching features a blend of intensive one-on-one instruction and seminar-based learning, allowing for a holistic approach to musical education. The university maintains strong links to the regional arts community, providing students with a professional context for their academic and creative growth.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22428 per year
National fee: USD 22428 per year
Local fee: USD 19972 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Graduate Study in Music
Seminar in Medieval and Renaissance Music
Seminar in Baroque and Classical Music
Seminar in Music from 1800 to Present
Analytical Techniques in Tonal Music
Analysis of post-1900 Music
Theories of Rhythm and Meter
Instrumental Repertoire
Instrumental Pedagogy
Advanced Instrumental Interpretation and Conducting Techniques
Instrumental Performance Topic
Master’s Recital

Careers with Instrumental Performance

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the global music sector, including positions as orchestral musicians, soloists, and chamber performers. The advanced technical training also equips individuals for careers in instrumental coaching and private studio instruction.

Many alumni find success in professional symphony orchestras, opera pits, and contemporary music ensembles. The degree provides the necessary credentials for those seeking to pursue further doctoral studies or leadership positions within arts organisations and music conservatoires.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Instrumental Repertoire

Instrumental Pedagogy

Advanced Instrumental Interpretation and Conducting Techniques

Instrumental Performance Topics

Chamber Music or Small Ensemble

Seminar in Medieval and Renaissance Music

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-06 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

32 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Rochester Hills, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Performance View 328 other Masters in Music Performance in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants must have earned a baccalaureate degree in music from a regionally accredited institution or proof of a U.S. equivalent degree for foreign educated applicants.

Two years of music theory, one year of music history, and instrumental performance ability; OR background equivalent to these requirements

Applicants must submit a written statement of professional goals.

Applicants must schedule and perform a successful audition that shows an appropriate level of prior experience and potential for success in the program.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

22428 USD / year

≈ 22428 USD / year
Out-of-State

22428 USD / year

≈ 22428 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19972 USD / year

≈ 19972 USD / year

Living costs

Rochester Hills

United States

1000 - 1500 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Instrumental Performance.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Rochester Hills

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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