The Bachelor of Music in Performance, Conducting Emphasis (Instrumental) is designed for students aspiring to pursue graduate study in instrumental conducting, conduct professionally, or embark on academic careers as conductors (requiring a music education credential). This program focuses on baton technique, score analysis, solfège, orchestra parts, and rehearsal preparation and execution. Additionally, it includes a strong academic music component emphasizing music history, alongside the general education requirements for all undergraduate students at Chapman. Students are encouraged to gain practical experience by working in the Orchestra Library and assisting with the general operations of the Chapman Orchestra.
Admission to the Conducting major is based on a formal evaluation of conducting skill and potential, which typically occurs as early as a student’s second semester at Chapman. This formal audition involves several components: a conducting audition in front of The Chapman Orchestra, an audition on the student’s primary instrument or voice, as well as a short exam testing aural skills, music theory, and score analysis. Private instruction in conducting is available as early as the first semester for those interested (pre-conducting major). Upon successfully passing the conducting audition, students can formally begin their conducting major as early as the third semester.
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 .
The B.M. in Performance, Conducting emphasis may be combined with the B.M. Composition degree, 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 GE secondary area of study requirement. The B.M. in Performance, Conducting emphasis may be combined with the Film Music, Music Technology, or 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 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 .
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