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

    MFA Guitar studies pushes already accomplished guitarists to explore advanced performance techniques and new stylistic directions as they shape their individual artistic profiles, and prepare for careers in the professional music world.

    In addition to major lessons, guitar workshops, and advanced classes in music history, literature, theory and analysis, MFA candidates play in a variety of coached small ensembles, including chamber music groups, faculty-student jazz ensembles and the School’s Multi-Focus Ensembles. MFA guitarists further refine their musical and creative skills through custom-tailored studies under the guidance of their mentors. The graduate curriculum also incorporates classes in pedagogy and career design.

    All MFA guitarists 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

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