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 Winds studies provides a challenging forum for accomplished students of flute, clarinet, oboe and bassoon to explore advanced performance techniques and a greater range of stylistic directions as they develop their individual artistic profiles and prepare for professional careers after graduation.

In addition to major lessons, winds ensemble, winds workshop and advanced classes in music history, literature, theory and analysis, MFA candidates perform in a variety of chamber ensembles and conducted large ensembles, including the School’s principal conducted faculty-student group, The Ensemble at CalArts. Wind players further hone their skills in extended techniques, improvisation and interpretation through a number of more specialized groups, covering Baroque, jazz, electronic, improvisational and creative music, as well as a host of non-Western traditions. As part of the preparation for the professional world, the MFA curriculum also incorporates classes in career design.

All MFA candidates 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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