MFA

2-Year Program

The MFA Program in Music is designed to enable students to acquire the multiple skillsets that will empower them to stake out their own, unique, career pathways to success. The program of study is designed to be a stimulating and challenging, collaborative learning environment, in which music and sound artists can refine and perfect their already distinctive voices to reach the highest levels of professional practice, while simultaneously exploring new and inspiring, creative territories.

About the Specialization

Tabla students study, practice and perform in various contexts, both as a soloist and accompanist, learning a broad range of traditional repertoire and developing skills as improvisers. Focusing heavily on vocalization and recitation of syllables (e.g. the language and grammar of tabla), students gain a deep understanding of the concepts, devices and rhythmic patterns found in North Indian classical music, building extensive knowledge of many different talas.

Students of melodic instruments develop advanced technical skills required for playing and singing different ragas and talas, as well as comprehensive understanding of North Indian music theory.

All MFA World Music artists are required to pass a Mid-Residence Recital and a Graduation Jury and Recital in order to obtain the degree.

Full Curriculum

View Curriculum Requirements 


Interdisciplinary Opportunities

In addition to CalArts' rich and diverse community and naturally collaborative atmosphere, the Institute provides several programs of study that can be pursued concurrently with a student's chosen metier.

Center for Integrated Media

The Center for Integrated Media concentration is designed specifically for MFA students whose creative use of technology—in particular digital media—goes beyond their primary areas of study.

Center for Integrated Media


Ready to Begin?