The MA of Music in Orchestral Performance course is a specialized, 2 semesters long intensive programme for instrumentalists aiming for professional ensemble careers.

The curriculum centers on mastery of orchestral repertoire, advanced instrumental technique, and comprehensive audition preparation (including mock auditions and mental coaching). It also cultivates the professionalism, chamber music skills, and collaborative leadership  necessary to secure and sustain a position in a world-class symphony orchestra. Graduates are career-ready orchestral musicians and artistic leaders. 

Programme Educational Objectives:

• PEO#1 Audition Mastery and Career Advancement: Graduates will effectively apply specialized strategic, mental, and practical skills to consistently excel in competitive professional auditions, critically assess performance standards, and successfully advance their careers within the global orchestral landscape
• PEO#2 Advanced Performance Skills: Graduates will be equipped with the technical proficiency and artistry required for professional orchestral performance, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and ensemble skills.
• PEO#3 Comprehensive Music Theory and Analysis, Historical and Cultural Contextualization: Graduates will foster a deep understanding of music theory, score analysis, and orchestration to enable students to interpret and perform a diverse repertoire of orchestral music effectively. Also, students will have the proficiency to contextualize orchestral works within historical, cultural, and stylistic frameworks, enhancing their interpretative decisions during performance.
• PEO#4 Sustained Professionalism and Organizational Integration: Graduates will demonstrate the organizational acumen, interpersonal skills, and professional adaptability required to seamlessly integrate into the daily operations and long-term culture of a professional orchestra, resulting in a sustained and successful career marked by positive collegial relationships and adherence to institutional artistic standards.

Student Outcomes:

1. An ability to possess an in-depth, analytical knowledge and performance mastery of the standard orchestral excerpt literature for their instrument, including historical context, stylistic fidelity, and awareness of performance practice across major periods (Baroque through Contemporary).
2. An ability to successfully apply specialized mental, physical, and strategic techniques to consistently deliver competitive, high-stakes performances in mock and professional blind-audition settings, effectively managing performance anxiety and adapting to panel feedback.
3. An ability to function as artistically flexible and dependable ensemble players, demonstrating sophisticated aural skills, non-verbal communication, and the ability to integrate seamlessly with section, chamber, and full orchestral settings under various conductors.4. An ability to critically evaluate their own performance and practice strategies using objective criteria, designing and implementing effective, long-term practice routines and corrective technical work to ensure continuous professional development.
4. An ability to integrate advanced musicological and theoretical knowledge of orchestral scores, historical instruments, and composer intent to inform and justify their interpretive choices in both performance and teaching contexts.
5. An ability to demonstrate professional acumen in non-performance aspects of an orchestral career, including effective résumé and recording preparation, understanding contract negotiations, engaging in community outreach, and demonstrating leadership and governance skills typical of modern orchestral musicians.
6. An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Job Opportunities:

Graduates of an Orchestral Studies MA have diverse job opportunities in the music industry. They will possess the know-how to pursue careers as professional orchestral musicians, performing with symphony orchestras, chamber orchestras, or contemporary music performing ensembles. Graduates may also work in music direction for theatre, film, or opera.