The Bachelor of Music in Performance, Conducting Emphasis (Instrumental) is intended for students who wish to pursue graduate study in instrumental conducting, to conduct professionally, or to pursue careers as conductors on an academic track (requiring a music education credential). The program concentrates on baton technique, score analysis, solfège, orchestra parts and rehearsal preparation and execution. The program also includes a strong academic music component with an emphasis on music history as well as the general education program required of all undergraduate students at Chapman. Students are encouraged to work in the Orchestra Library and assist in the general running of the Chapman Orchestra. Admission to the Conducting major is based on evaluation of conducting skill and potential at the end of the fourth semester of study, though private instruction can begin as soon as the first semester. Students admitted into this major must demonstrate an acceptable level of performance proficiency on a major instrument/voice.
General education requirements for the Bachelor of Music Performance, Conducting Emphasis, Instrumental
Three credits of language are required at or above the 200-level to satisfy the language study component of the Global Citizens Cluster General Education requirement. Those seeking the B.M. in Performance, conducting emphasis, are restricted to French, German, or Italian language to satisfy this requirement.
Additional degree information
Specific transfer requirements, proficiency requirements, applied music policies, minimum grade policy, retake course policy, are listed at General Information for all Music Programs . Requirements for lessons and studio classes are listed at Applied Music Courses .
Students must participate in at least one large instrumental or choral ensemble each semester while in full-time residence, as assigned by director of orchestral or choral activities.
The B.M. in Performance, Conducting emphasis may be combined with the B.M. Composition degree, both emphases, to satisfy the G.E. interdisciplinary cluster requirement. The B.M. in Performance, Conducting emphasis may be combined with the B.M. in Performance (all emphases) but this does not satisfy the G.E. interdisciplinary cluster requirement. The B.M. in Performance, Conducting emphasis may be combined with the Film Music, Music Technology, and Music Business minor. This degree may not be combined with the B.M. (Pre-Music Education Certification) degree or the General music minor.
Program Learning Outcomes and Educational Effectiveness Evaluation Plans for B.M. in Music Performance.
Students pursuing the B.M. in Performance, Conducting Emphasis, Instrumental are required to:
- Demonstrate the following proficiency requirements
º Sight Singing Proficiency Requirement (if voice is primary instrument)
º Piano Proficiency Requirement
- Take jury exams at the end of each semester of applied lessons.
- Earn an overall GPA of 2.000 for all required major courses.
- Complete all courses in the major, including applied lessons, for a letter grade. The only exceptions are information literacy classes, recitals, and studio classes (if taken).
- Pass courses with a minimum grade of “C” in all required courses in music theory, music history, music cultures, and music technology.
- Complete a minimum of 30 credits from upper-division courses in the major.
- Complete the senior capstone requirement MUS 498B - Senior Recital in Conducting Performance - Full Solo Program .