About the Specialization
MFA Piano/Keyboard studies is an environment in which accomplished students of piano and other keyboards can explore advanced performance techniques and branch out in new stylistic directions, allowing them to shape their individual artistic profiles and prepare for careers in the professional music world.
In addition to major lessons, piano workshops, performance forums, and advanced classes in music history, literature, theory and analysis, MFA students play in chamber groups and large ensembles, including the School’s principal conducted faculty-student group, The Ensemble at CalArts. They further develop more specialized skills through electives (harpsichord, jazz piano, jazz keyboard) and ensembles focused mostly on jazz, improvisation and experimental music. The MFA curriculum also incorporates classes in pedagogy and career design, as well as in movement (yoga for musicians, African and Indonesian dance, and offerings in other Schools at CalArts).
Each MFA candidate is required to pass a Mid-Residence Recital and a Graduation Jury and Recital in order to obtain the degree.
Full Curriculum
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