UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS/AMHERST
DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC AND DANCE
GRADUATE STUDENT
HANDBOOK
Master of Music
Doctor of Philosophy in Music
FALL 2011
Department of Music & Dance
Fine Arts Center East, Rm. 273
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003-9330
(413) 545-2227
Table of Contents
General Information about Graduate Programs
3
Admission Information
4
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate Assistants Assigned to Departmental Ensembles
6
6
International Applicants
7
Diagnostic Exams
Summer Preparation for Diagnostic Exams
7
8
Master of Music Degree Requirements
Common Core Requirements
Comprehensive Oral Examinations
Thesis Requirements
Recital/Final Project Requirements
8
9
9
10
11
MM in Performance and MM in Music Education (Applied Emphasis)
Jury and Recital Information for Instrumentalists
Jury and Recital Information for Vocalists
11
11
12
Eligibility Form
12
Program Fee
12
Graduate Program Ensemble Policy
13
Master of Music Degree Plans
Collaborative Piano
Composition
Choral Conducting
Orchestral Conducting
Wind Conducting
Jazz Composition and Arranging
Music Education
Music History
Music Theory
Performance
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Degree
Admission to Program
Qualifying Exams and Admission to Candidacy
24
24
25
Doctor of Philosophy in Music Degree Plans
Music Education
Music Theory
26
27
APPENDIX: Welcome to UMass: A survival guide for new graduate students
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Welcome! This Handbook is intended as a helpful guide to current departmental rules, regulations, and practices
for graduate music students. It is the only source that outlines degree requirements approved by the graduate faculty
and the Graduate School as well as departmental policies on admissions, auditions, exams, etc. It contains
information on certain Graduate School policies and regulations that can be found in the official Graduate School
Handbook and other official University of Massachusetts publications. Students are responsible for staying current
with University and Graduate Program policies. Please contact the Graduate Program Director and your Major
Professor with any concerns regarding your degree program, course requirements, and other questions that you may
have.
GENERAL PROGRAM INFORMATION
The University: Located in the picturesque New England town of Amherst, the University of Massachusetts is the
largest public university in New England. The Amherst campus is the flagship of the state’s five-campus system of
public higher education. There are 150 major buildings situated on this 1,200-acre campus. Roughly 24,000
students pursue studies in the university’s ten colleges and schools, which offer some 100 undergraduate, 70 master,
and 52 doctoral degree programs. The University is a member of the New England Association of Universities and
Colleges (NEAUC). The Department is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music
(NASM).
Music Dept. Faculty: 39 full-time, 8 part-time
Enrollment: approximately 300 students, 225 undergraduates and 75 graduates.
Facilities: The Fine Arts Center houses extensive performing, academic, and administrative space, including the
2,000-seat Concert Hall and the 200-seat Bezanson Recital Hall. The Department also uses the 700-seat Bowker
Auditorium in Stockbridge Hall.
Degree Programs: Master of Music with concentrations in the following areas:
Choral Conducting
Composition
Jazz Composition/Arranging
Music Education (Research, Applied Study in Performance or Conducting, Kodaly)
Music History
Orchestral Conducting
Performance
Collaborative Piano
Music Theory
Wind Conducting
Doctor of Philosophy with concentrations in the following areas:
Music Education
Music Theory
Four-Summers Master of Music with a Concentration in Music Education: The Four-Summers Master of
Music with a concentration in Music Education provides the opportunity for individuals to complete the master’s
degree during the summer. Requirements for admission to the summer program are the same as those for admission
to the academic-year Master of Music program with a concentration in Music Education. The Applied Studies
emphasis requires an audition for admission and some course work must be completed during the academic year.
Summer courses and degree requirements are consistent with the academic-year program.
Non Degree Programs: Individuals may enroll as an “undesignated” graduate student at UMass. Only up to 6
credits of graduate level academic study taken at UMass Amherst may be transferred into the degree program.
Once the 6 hours have been completed, the student must apply for admission and be accepted to a graduate program
or cease graduate study.
Transfer Credits from Other Institutions:
Up to 6 credits may be taken at another institution and transferred into the degree program with approval of the
Graduate Program Director.
3
Post-Baccalaureate Initial Licensure-Only Program: The Department of Music and Dance has suspended
admission to the Post-Baccalaureate Licensure-Only Program.
Performance Opportunities: Tuesday and Thursday recital series, student solo and studio recitals, vocal and
instrumental ensembles. Additional opportunities include the Five College Early Music Program, the Five College
New Music Festival, and the Five College Choral Festival.
Music Library: The print music, book, journal and recording collections are located in the W. E. B. DuBois
Library. In addition, a Music Reserve Laboratory that includes listening facilities is located in the music wing of the
Fine Arts Center. Holdings include 18,000 books, 16,000 scores, 16,000 recordings, and 125 periodical
subscriptions.
Five Colleges, Inc.: This consortium coordinates course offerings of the University with those of Amherst,
Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, and Smith Colleges, comprising nearly 2,000 faculty members (including nearly 100
music faculty members).
Visits: The Department of Music & Dance welcomes visits by prospective students. Individual meetings, minilessons, and/or visits to classes and rehearsals may be arranged with the specific faculty members. If it is unclear
which faculty member to contact, you may contact the department’s Director of Admissions. A tour of the campus
can be arranged through the Robisham Visitor’s Center at 545-0306.
ADMISSIONS INFORMATION
Application Deadlines:
Music Theory (M.M. and Ph.D.): January 15 th
All other degree programs: February 1st
Application: To enter a graduate music degree program at the University of Massachusetts, prospective students
must meet the admission requirements of both the Graduate School and the department. Applicants must complete a
Graduate School application and pay the application fee. You may apply on line at www.umass.edu/gradschool or
you may request an application form from the Graduate School at the address listed below or by telephone. The
Graduate School also requires applicants to submit an official copy of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts and
two letters of recommendation. Application to the M.M. with a concentration in music theory, Music History or
music education or the Ph.D. with a concentration in either music theory or music education requires the General
Graduate Record Examination (GRE). To be considered for admission, international applicants whose native
language is not English must submit verification of a TOEFL score at or above 550 (written) or 213 (computerized
version) or 79-80 (IBT). These materials must be sent by the agency administering the TOEFL directly to the
address below:
Graduate School Admissions Office
530 Goodell
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003
(413) 545-0722
Auditions: The Department of Music & Dance requires an on-campus audition for all prospective students who
wish to be admitted to the following degree concentrations:
Master of Music in Performance
Master of Music in Collaborative Piano
Master of Music in Choral Conducting
Master of Music in Music Education Applied Emphases (Performance or Conducting)
Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting
Master of Music in Wind Conducting
Conducting applicants must contact the appropriate ensemble director directly to schedule a special audition and
discuss the process. Recorded performances and video recordings of conducting may be accepted in lieu of an oncampus audition for students who live too far from campus to audition in person but the faculty reserves the right to
require an on-campus audition prior to any admission decision. While special audition appointments can be made
4
for performance and collaborative piano majors, applicants should make every effort to attend one of the scheduled
audition dates in December or February. Requests to schedule an audition may be made online using the Audition
Request Form found on the Department of Music and Dance website. Specific audition requirements may be found
at the Music website. Questions about audition scheduling may be directed to:
Director of Admissions
Department of Music & Dance
273 Fine Arts Center East
University of Massachusetts
Amherst MA 01003-9330
Email: cthornley@music.umass.edu
Supporting Materials: Some graduate programs require additional support materials as part of the application
process. The degree and support material requirements are:
Master of Music in Composition: examples of original compositions in varied styles or genres.
Master of Music in Jazz Composition & Arranging: samples of completed arrangements and original compositions,
on CDs, with copies of scores. Please note your performance contributions to CD tracks if applicable. An oncampus performance audition/interview may also be scheduled, preferably on, but not limited to, departmental
audition dates.
Master of Music in Choral Conducting: a 20 minute DVD of rehearsal and performance footage; a comprehensive
list of repertoire conducted; a current resume. For more information, visit www.umass.edu/choirs.
Master of Music in Orchestral Conducting: a 20 minute DVD of rehearsal and performance footage (camera to face
of conductor); a comprehensive list of repertoire conducted; a one-page philosophy of music education; a current
professional CV.
Master of Music in Wind Conducting: a 20 minute DVD of rehearsal and performance footage (camera to face of
conductor); a comprehensive list of repertoire conducted; a one-page philosophy of music education; a current
professional CV.
Master of Music in Music Education with a Research Emphasis: one scholarly paper (thesis, term paper, journal
article, etc.) at least ten pages in length that demonstrates writing ability, understanding of the connection between
theory and practice, critical analysis and synthesis, and appropriate use of sources and citations.
Master of Music in Music History: senior thesis or extended term paper; at least 10 pages in length, that
demonstrates writing ability, analytic reasoning, and appropriate use of sources and citations.
Ph.D. in Music Education: two contrasting scholarly papers (thesis, term paper, journal article, research study, etc.)
each at least ten pages in length that demonstrate writing ability, understanding of the connection between theory
and practice, critical analysis and synthesis, research skills, and appropriate use of sources and citations.
Master of Music or Ph.D. in Music Theory: two contrasting papers in music theory (senior thesis, term paper, etc),
each at least ten pages in length, that demonstrate writing ability, analytical and critical reasoning, and appropriate
use of sources and citations.
Send all supporting materials, such as video recordings or CDs, scores, and research papers, directly to the
DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC AND DANCE Graduate Program Director. Make sure to include the concentration
you are applying for (i.e.: performance/instrument, theory, etc.). Sending supporting materials to the Graduate
School will delay their consideration by the appropriate music faculty.
Graduate Program Director
Department of Music & Dance
273 Fine Arts Center East
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003-9330
(413) 545-0311
Email: dqc@music.umass.edu
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GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
Graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis. There is no separate application for graduate
assistantships. Applicants wishing to be considered for a graduate assistantship should check the appropriate box on
the Graduate School Admission Application and discuss their relevant experience and skills in the Personal
Statement.
For assistantships in music theory, applicants must be prepared to demonstrate theoretical knowledge, pedagogical
thinking and musicianship. For assistantships in accompanying, applicants must be prepared to demonstrate sightreading skills. For assistantships that will include teaching and/or assisting with a general education course, a
personal interview is required.
To ensure being considered for a an assistantship, international applicants are encouraged to take the TOEFL early
enough for its score to arrive by the application deadline.
Renewal/Termination of Graduate Assistantships: Graduate Assistantships in Music are normally offered with
the expectation of regular renewal for a total of four semesters for masters students, six semesters for doctoral
students. Students are informed in April of the renewal or non-renewal of their assistantship. In some cases the
renewal will carry different responsibilities as determined by the anticipated academic needs of the department.
Renewal is based on the following criteria:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Continued university funding (under the terms of the GEO contract);
Satisfactory academic performance;
Satisfactory work performance as a Graduate Assistant;
Written recommendation of the supervising faculty member
Assistantships may be terminated before the end of the normal duration for any one or more of the following
reasons:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Lack of university funding (under the terms of the GEO contract);
Unsatisfactory academic performance;
Unsatisfactory work performance as a Graduate Assistant ;
Any other reason that constitutes "just cause."
Except in the most unusual circumstances (for example, unexcused absence from workplace responsibilities), a
formal thirty-day letter of warning from the Department Chair will precede the termination of a Teaching
Assistantship prior to the four-semester commitment.
The department may consider continuation of a Graduate Assistantship beyond the normal commitment by special
written request to the Graduate Program Director before March 15 of an academic year. Such a request must be
based on compelling educational reasons and supported by the graduate student’s major professor. In order to
provide maximum opportunities for entering graduate students, such extensions will be granted infrequently.
All graduate teaching assistants at UMass are members of the Graduate Employment Organization (GEO) Local
2322 of the United Auto Workers. For further information about conditions of employment under the GEO contract,
visit the GEO website: http://www-unix.umass.edu/~geo/
Financial Aid: Graduate Financial Aid Services offers programs to assist students in financing their education
regardless of income or eligibility for need-based financial aid. For more information contact the Financial Aid
office located in 243 Whitmore Administration Building, Office hours are Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The
telephone number is (413) 577-0555; TDD (413) 545-9420; email: grads@finaid.umass.edu; website:
www.umass.edu/umfa
Graduate Assistants Assigned to Department Ensembles
Graduate Assistants who are assigned to an ensemble as part of their load shall not register for academic credit in
that ensemble. The students cannot receive credit for any ensemble that is included in their assistantship load.
Assistantships with ensemble assignments should regard attendance at rehearsals as seriously as an assignment to
teach a class.
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Graduate Assistants assigned to a chamber ensemble are allocated five hours per week with the understanding that
four of those hours will be spent in rehearsal and coaching by the faculty member assigned to that particular
ensemble. The fifth hour is credited over the semester to performance related activities. Each semester, the
graduate chamber ensembles must perform publically and will also be expected to do two additional performances
in service to the department. As needed, the chair will inform the appropriate faculty member of a request for a
student ensemble to perform for a campus function. Such functions may be recruitment events sponsored by the
development office, alumni events sponsored by various departments and agencies, receptions hosted by the
chancellor, provost or other campus official, etc. On or off-campus paid performances will not be considered as
meeting the service requirement.
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all applicants for admission to the Graduate
School who are not citizens of the United States and whose native language is not English. Applicants from India
are required to submit TOEFL scores. Information about the examination may be obtained by writing:
Test of English as a Foreign Language
Educational Testing Service
P.O. Box 6152
Princeton, NJ 08541-6152 U.S.A.
The TOEFL requirement may be waived if the applicant has attended an American university on a full-time basis for
a period of at least two academic years immediately preceding the anticipated entrance date. A minimum score of
550(paper), 213(computer-based) or 79-80(IBT) is required for admission. In exceptional circumstances, a score
below the minimum may be appealed by contacting the Graduate Program Director
International Teaching Assistants: Many departments offer teaching assistantships to qualified graduate students.
International applicants are eligible for these assistantships. Since teaching assistantships involve instruction,
students who are awarded a teaching assistantship and whose native language is not English are required to
demonstrate oral English proficiency. Students may do this either by passing the Test of Spoken English
administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) before their arrival on campus and at their own expense or
by passing the SPEAK test upon arrival on campus at no cost to them. A score of 50 or above is required to pass the
TSE or SPEAK test. Information about the ETS may be obtained by writing to: TOEFL Program Office at the ETS
address above. If the teaching assistantship is awarded, the test result has no bearing on the funding of the teaching
assistantship. Students who do not pass the test are assigned responsibilities corresponding to their level of
proficiency in spoken English and asked to enroll, at no cost to them, in the spoken English Communication
Instruction classes offered by the Graduate School. This requirement may be waived upon the Graduate Program
Director's request for students in the following categories: a) students who have taken and passed a test with similar
purpose at another U.S. university; b) students who have an undergraduate degree from a U.S. university; or c)
students whose entire education has been in the United Kingdom, Ireland, English-speaking Canada, Australia, New
Zealand, Commonwealth Caribbean, or the United States.
DIAGNOSTIC EXAMS
All entering masters students must take the Diagnostic Examinations in Music Theory and Music History
before they may enroll for coursework in these subject areas. Each test takes approximately one hour to
complete. The exams are offered during departmental auditions and/or at the time of the on-campus
audition/interview. The exams are also administered before classes begin in the fall and spring semesters.
Applicants for a concentration in Music Theory must pass the corresponding Diagnostic Exam as an
entrance test prior to acceptance. Theory applicants must pass all sections of the written theory exam.
The results of the Music History exam will be used to advise students into appropriate graduate level
history courses.
Students who do not pass any section of the Diagnostic Examination in Music Theory must retake and
pass those sections of the exam before they may take graduate-level theory courses. Students may study
on their own, participate in summer music theory review online, hire a tutor, and/or take the Graduate
Theory Review in the fall in order to prepare for retaking the exam.
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Students in the M.M. in Collaborative Piano must take a diagnostic exam in diction in Italian, German,
and French during the first week of the semester. Collaborative pianists must contact the Voice Area
Coordinator to schedule this exam. If remedial work is needed in any of these languages, the student will
be required to take undergraduate diction courses.
Summer Preparation for the Diagnostic Exams in History and Theory
During the summer before matriculating at UMass Amherst, an opportunity will be provided to review history and
theory skills. If you have taken the Diagnostic Exam at the time of your audition/interview, this review will allow
you to concentrate on areas you did not pass. If you had not taken the Diagnostic at the time of your
audition/interview, this summer review will provide an excellent opportunity to prepare to take the entire exam
when you arrive on campus in the fall.
Music History:
Three online practice exams will be available during the summer. These practice tests will be in a similar format to
the actual Diagnostic Exam and will reflect the type of questions and listening that will be included in the
Diagnostic. In addition to the practice questions, the tests will also include background information to assist you
with your review.
Music Theory:
If you need to reinforce your knowledge and skills in music theory, you have several options. First, you should
review your textbook and notes from your undergraduate work in music theory. Second, you may elect to hire a
tutor. Third, a UMass music theory theorist will be available for consultation online during the summer before you
matriculate in the UMass program.
MASTER OF MUSIC DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Goals:
The Master of Music Degree is intended for music students who desire to pursue graduate study in order to continue
the development of their creative, analytical and pedagogical skills. The goals of the Master of Music degree are to
provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, while preparing students to communicate musical knowledge
in oral and written form and to prepare students for employment in the field of music.
Objectives:
 To equip students with the ability to understand music’s aesthetic content, structure, place in history, and
role in contemporary society.
 To develop those talents and skills necessary to compete as professional musicians. Such talents and skills
include theoretical analysis, musical style and performance practice, interpretive and technical skill,
conducting, methods and pedagogy, and knowledge of music literature appropriate to the emphasis area.
 To develop students’ individual talents and skills beyond that attainable in undergraduate study, thereby
providing the community, surrounding area, and music professions with a select group of creative and
artistic people who can promote the art of music.
A student’s graduate degree requirements are those in force the day of registration of the first semester of
enrollment. A student is considered full-time when enrolled in nine (9) or more credit hours. Current INS
regulations require that all foreign graduate students register for 9 credits, except in their final semester if they need
fewer than 9 credits to graduate.
Graduate Credits and Grade Requirements: The Master of Music (M.M.) degree requires satisfactory completion
of a carefully planned curriculum consisting of a minimum of thirty-three (33) graduate credits (courses numbered
500 and higher). At least 12 credits must be at the 600 level or above and must be used to fulfill the degree
requirements. All M.M. candidates may transfer up to six (6) graduate credits from other institutions, with the
approval of the Graduate Program Director and the Graduate School. An eight-credit limit applies to the transfer of
courses taken at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst as a non-degree graduate student before being admitted to
(provisional or regular) M.M. degree status. The Graduate School and the Department require that students maintain
a grade point average of 3.0 (B) and will not accept the transfer of any course with a lower grade.
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Common Core Requirements
All graduate students in the Master of Music program are required to take two approved courses (six credits) in
graduate music history and two approved courses (six credits) in graduate music theory
On occasion seminars in special topics may be offered as substitutions for these courses. When those are offered, a
special announcement will be provided prior to the registration period. Course offerings may vary from year to
year.
A LIST OF AVAILABLE COURSES DURING ANY TWO SEMESTER PERIOD WILL BE AVAILABLE IN
THE DEPARTMENT OFFICE.
Graduate music history courses that satisfy common core requirements
in all Masters and Doctoral Programs
Music 501:
Music 502:
Music 503:
Music 504:
Music 505:
Music 507:
Music 591A:
Music 593F:
Music 593M:
Music 593P:
Music 593S:
Music 593U:
Music 595J:
Music 601:
Music 693S:
Music 695M:
The Baroque Era--17th Century
Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven
19TH Century Romanticism
20th Century Music I
History of Opera
The Age of Bach & Handel
American Music
Music Biography
Minimalism
Seminar: 20th Century II: 1945-Present
Symphony in 19th-20th Centuries
Seminar in Postmodern Music
History of Jazz
Musicology Seminar II: Research in Musicology
The Symphony in the 19th and 20th Centuries
Musical Thought in the Middle Ages and Renaissance
Graduate music theory courses that satisfy common core requirements
in all Masters and Doctoral Programs
Music 591S
Music 691:
Music 691A:
Music 691C:
Music 691F:
Music 691M:
Music 691O:
Music 691P:
Music 691R:
Music 697S:
Music 697G:
Post-Tonal Theory
Graduate Musicianship
Analysis of Music since 1945
Analysis of Counterpoint
Musical Forms
Motivic Analysis
Analysis of Opera
Analysis for Performance
Analysis of Rhythm and Meter
Schenkerian Analysis
Jazz Styles and Analysis
Comprehensive Oral Examinations
All M.M. students must take a one-hour comprehensive oral examination, usually in April of the last year of study.
It is the student’s responsibility to create the orals committee at least one month prior to the examination date in
consultation with their major professor, subject to the approval of the Graduate Program Director. In general, one
committee member is from the student’s major area, plus one faculty member each from music history and music
theory.
For students in Music Education, the committee will consist of representatives from Music Education, Music
History, and Music Theory. Questions will be derived from the content of theses’ three areas. Music Education
questions will be generated from the core and elective music education courses, as well as the student’s area of
emphasis within the degree concentration.
For students whose concentration is Music Theory or Music History, two or more faculty members from the major
subject will serve on the committee.
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For students in the MM in Conducting (Choral, Orchestral, Wind), degree program, the theory and Music History
committee members will focus on the repertoire performed on the degree recital. The major professor will ask the
candidates to demonstrate advanced knowledge in the major area, specifically based on seminar studies in the area
of expertise.
For students in the MM in Performance degree the oral exam will be based in the repertoire performed on the degree
recital. Students must provide committee members with copies of the scores to the works being performed on the
recital at least one week prior to the exam. During the exam students will be expected to place the works in
historical and theoretical contexts as well as address appropriate performance practice, pedagogy, and other works in
the genres of which the performed works are representations.
For students in the MM in Jazz Composition & Arranging, the exam will be based on questions in the areas of jazz
history, jazz theory, and jazz composition/arranging. Students will also be expected to place the composition project
(MUS 631) in historical and theoretical contexts, as well as address appropriate performance practice pedagogy, and
other works in the genre of which it is a representation. In addition, the candidate’s writing portfolio (see degree
checklist of eight bulleted composition/arranging projects not including the composition project), will be presented
in hard-copy scores (appropriately bound and labeled), along with as many related performance recordings on CD as
available. A CD copy of the recital containing the Composition Project will also be submitted in addition to the
hard-copy score of same (appropriately bound and labeled).
Students requesting a change in committee membership after it is established must demonstrate and document
sufficient just cause. All changes are subject to the approval of the major faculty member, Area Coordinator and the
Graduate Program Director. Once the committee has been approved, the student is permitted and strongly advised
to consult with the faculty committee members as to specific areas in which questions may arise.
Overview of Oral Examination Questions
Near the beginning of each fall semester a meeting will be held for all M.M. students with the music history and
music theory faculties, who will discuss their expectations in their areas and go over practice questions. New
students are strongly urged to attend this meeting and begin their preparation for the oral exam as early as possible.
Oral Examination Outcome Options
A student who fails the examination or any section of it may retake the failed part(s) in no sooner than two months.
The examination may be taken no more than three times. If a student should fail the third examination, the Graduate
School terminates enrollment in the degree program automatically.
Thesis Requirements
Music Education:
Capstone: The Master of Music with a concentration in Music Education culminates in a capstone project, which
must be relevant to and consistent with the student’s area of emphasis (research thesis, performance project, or fieldbased project). It may be an expansion of work begun in program coursework. By the end of the first year or
summer of study, the candidate, in collaboration with the Coordinator of Music Education and the Graduate
Program Director, must form a capstone committee. For more information on the capstone process, candidates
should consult with the Coordinator of Music Education. Candidates exploring a thesis should also reference the
Graduate School publication, Guidelines for Theses and Dissertations.
Music History:
Thesis: The two-year program culminates in a thesis, usually an expansion of work begun in MUS 601 or a course
project in one of the Music History courses. By the end of the candidate’s first year of study, a thesis committee
must be formed by the candidate, in conjunction with the Coordinator of Music History and the Graduate Program
Director. For more information on the thesis process, candidates should consult the Graduate School publication,
Guidelines for Theses and Dissertations.
Music Theory:
Thesis: The two-year program culminates in a thesis. Working in conjunction with the Coordinator of Music
Theory and the Graduate Program Director, students must form a thesis committee no later than during their third
semester of coursework. Before proceeding to work on the thesis, students must complete a thesis proposal (a
document, typically 10-20 pages in length, that lays out the scope, depth, and methodology of the thesis,
accompanied by an annotated bibliography), which must be approved by their thesis committee. For more
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information on the thesis process, candidates should consult the Graduate School publication, Guidelines for Theses
and Dissertations.
Recital/Final Project Requirements
Collaborative Piano majors must accompany three (3) recitals (two of which must be full recitals) in lieu of a
thesis.
Composition majors must submit an original composition in large form in lieu of a thesis.
Conducting majors must perform a full recital in lieu of a thesis.
Jazz Composition/Arranging majors must also submit an original composition in large form in lieu of a thesis, as
agreed upon by the applied jazz composition professors for Mus 631. The original composition in large form is
performed on a full recital of compositions and arrangements as also approved by the Jazz composition professors
(see syllabus for Composition Project, Mus. 631
Performance and Music Education/Applied Music majors must perform a full recital in lieu of a thesis.
MM IN PERFORMANCE and MM IN MUS ED (APPLIED EMPHASIS)
Jury and Recital Information for Instrumentalists
Graduate Jury and Recital Permission Requirements:
All graduate students enrolled in applied music are required to perform annually at an area jury (normally in May),
except at the end of the semester in which the degree recital has been performed.
Preliminary permission for all graduate recitals, whether satisfying a degree requirement or not, must be granted by
a jury. These Juries take place in December and May. Please note: Permission to perform the degree recital is
normally requested at the May jury at the end of the first year of study in the normal 2-year course of study. This
allows the student to reserve a recital date once the academic calendar opens for reservations in the fall. For a
student completing the degree in one year, recital permission must be requested at the December jury.
All graduate recitals, whether satisfying a degree requirement or not, must pass a Pre-Recital Hearing, to be held
approximately three weeks in advance of the scheduled recital. For the graduate degree recital, the Pre-Recital
Hearing Committee is selected by the student in consultation with the student’s major professor and consists of (a)
the student’s major professor; (b) one or two additional members of the applied faculty, normally in the student’s
performance area; and (c) a representative in history or theory from the student’s Oral Exam Committee. For the
degree recital for students pursuing a M.M. in Music Education/Applied Emphasis, the graduate preview committee
should consist of (a)the student’s major professor; (b) one additional member of the applied faculty, normally in the
student’s performance area; (c) a representative in history or theory from the student’s Oral Exam Committee and
(d) a music education faculty member. For non-degree recitals, the Recital Preview Committee is selected by the
student in consultation with the student’s major professor and consists of (a) the student’s major professor; (b) two
additional members of the applied faculty or one additional applied faculty member and a conductor, normally in the
student’s performance area.
For the M.M. in Performance and the M.M. in Music Education with Applied Emphasis, the recital requirement
(degree recital) is a full solo recital. However, appropriate chamber music may be included at the discretion of of
the student’s major professor. Where applicable, (b) in the paragraph above normally includes the faculty coach of
the chamber ensemble.
A performance major receives two (2) credits for the degree recital, which is graded pass/fail by the student’s major
professor.
The Department will record required recitals for its archives. These recordings will be available in the Music
Reserve Lab for the duration of the academic year in which they were given. After this, they will be archived in the
W.E.B. Du Bois Library.
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Jury and Recital Information for Vocalists
APPLIED VOICE MAJORS:
Graduate Voice Recital
A graduate level recital in voice should have around 60 minutes of music. Four languages should be represented in
music chosen from at least three different periods.
The Pre-Recital Hearing
A hearing will be held about four weeks before the recital date. At the time of the hearing students will submit their
program, translations and program notes. The hearing cannot move forward with out these documents. The hearing
will begin with a selection of the student’s choosing. After that, the faculty will select pieces from the recital
program at random. The hearing will conclude when the faculty is satisfied that the student is sufficiently prepared
and poised to move forward. We expect that the material will be free of any significant errors in pitch, rhythm,
pronunciation and memory. We expect that the student will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the texts.
The student may be asked to provide a translation of a few lines of text. In essence, we expect that the student will
present work where the basics are more than in place and that in the weeks leading up to the recital the work will
continue to grow and develop.
If the faculty is not satisfied with the student’s level of preparation at the time of the hearing, the student will be
given one week to address the areas of deficiency, which will be clearly defined, and another hearing will be held. If
after the second hearing the faculty is still not satisfied with the student’s preparation, the recital will be postponed.
The student with the help of their applied teacher will develop a plan as to when another hearing should be
scheduled.
Graduate Voice Majors Jury Requirements: All graduate vocal majors are required to perform a twenty-minute
jury in their first year of study. The student must prepare a minimum of six pieces in contrasting languages (four),
periods and genres. After the jury is over, a song in English will be assigned. The student will have 60 minutes to
learn the song and prepare a recitation the text. The student will then return to recite the poem and perform the song
for the voice faculty. Memorization is not required. Should a student fail any part of this performance jury, another
jury must be scheduled during the second year. No student will be cleared for graduation until he/she passes the jury
requirements.
Language Requirements: Proficiency Tests:
At the time of enrollment into the graduate program, the student’s applied teacher will conduct a test and advise the
student if remedial work in translation and diction skills in Italian, German and French is necessary. If remedial
work is indicated, the student, along with their applied teacher, will develop a strategy to address deficiencies.
Near the end of the second semester of study the voice faculty will test the student’s pronunciation and
comprehension skills by assigning up to three typical song, oratorio or opera texts in Italian, German, French and/or
English to be translated and recited. The student will be required to recite the texts in their original language,
provide handwritten IPA transcriptions as well as a word-by-word translation of the assigned texts. The use of a
dictionary is allowed. The use of electronic devises is not allowed. The student will have between one and two
hours to complete the exam depending on how many texts are assigned. The voice faculty is responsible for this
decision and will notify the Graduate Program Director in writing.
ELIGIBILITY FORM
The Eligibility Form is an inventory of the 33 credits counted toward the Master’s Degree. The form is available
online at the Graduate School website as an editable PDF. Before filling out the form the student should review the
“Guidelines for Completing the Eligibility Form” available on the Graduate School website and print out a copy of
their unofficial transcript. The completed form, along with the transcript, is given to the Graduate Program Director
no later than one week before the Office of Degree Requirement’s deadline. Students are strongly encouraged to
submit their Eligibility Form early in their final semester of study. The Graduate School has non-negotiable
deadlines for submission of theses and eligibility forms: the last working day of April (for May graduation), the last
working day of August (for September graduation), and January 15 (for February graduation). Since the forms must
be checked individually and signed by both the Graduate Program Director and the Department Chair, it is
imperative that they be handed in promptly.
PROGRAM FEE
In any spring or fall semester that a degree student does not register for courses--either during a leave of absence or
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while completing a thesis or other requirement—the student must pay a Program Fee of approximately $325. This
must be done at the Graduate Records office before the end of the Add/Drop period. The Graduate School does not
send a bill for this fee except in the form of a notice of administrative withdrawal. A student who is withdrawn for
non-payment of the Program Fee can be reinstated only by written permission of the Graduate Program Director and
payment of all outstanding program fees plus a readmission fee.
GRADUATE PROGRAM ENSEMBLE POLICY
Department-wide Ensemble Requirements
1. All Master of Music students must enroll in at least one ensemble bearing a MUSIC prefix/rubric every semester
they are enrolled in applied lessons.
2. Each concentration in the M.M. degree program lists ensembles that satisfy the degree requirements in that
concentration. (see the following list)
3. Students holding assistantships involving membership in a graduate chamber ensemble are expected to
provide leadership in the department’s large ensembles and studios and may be assigned to specific ensembles, as
determined by departmental need. Such decisions will be made by the department chair in consultation with
ensemble conductors and the appropriate applied instructor.
Recommended Ensembles
Collaborative Piano:
Ensemble participation is met through additional accompanying assignments.
Composition:
Students may select from the following ensembles: University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Five College Early
Music Collegium, Chamber Ensemble, Chamber Jazz Ensemble, Chamber Choir, University Chorale, Women’s
Choir, or Recital Choir.
Conducting:
Choral Conducting: The ensemble requirement is fulfilled by enrollment in either Chamber Choir or University
Chorale.
Orchestral Conducting: The ensemble requirement is fulfill by enrollment in University Orchestra.
Wind Conducting: The ensemble requirement is fulfilled by enrollment in Wind Ensemble and/or Symphony Band.
Jazz Arranging and Composition:
Students may select from the following ensembles: Graduate Chamber Jazz Players (sign up for section seven of
MUS 575, Chamber Jazz Ensemble), Chamber Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble I, Chapel Jazz Ensemble, Jazz
Lab Ensemble, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, or other MUS prefix/rubric ensembles by permission from the Director of
Jazz & African-American Music Studies.
Music History:
Students may select from the following ensembles:
University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Band, Five College Early Music Collegium, Percussion
Ensemble, Chamber Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble I, Chapel Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab Ensemble, Vocal Jazz
Ensemble, Chamber Jazz Ens., Chamber Choir, Univ. Chorale, Women’s Choir, Recital Choir, Opera
Workshop and chamber ensembles.
Music Theory:
Students may select from the following ensembles:
University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Band, Five College Early Music Collegium, Percussion
Ensemble, Chamber Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble I, Chapel Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab Ensemble, Vocal Jazz
Ensemble, Chamber Jazz Ens., Chamber Choir, Univ.Chorale, Women’s Choir, Recital Choir, Opera Workshop
Performance:
The ensemble requirement for string players is fulfilled by enrollment in the University Orchestra. For wind, brass,
and percussion players, these credits are fulfilled by enrollment in the University Orchestra, Wind Ensemble,
Symphony Band or, for jazz composition students, one of the large Jazz Ensembles. For vocal majors, the
requirement is met by enrolling in a conducted choral ensemble (Chamber Choir, University Chorale, or Recital
Choir) for 2 credits and opera workshop or a conducted choral ensemble for the remaining 2 credits.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN COLLABORATIVE PIANO
The Master of Music degree in Collaborative Piano is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in
the field of accompanying in order to continue the development of their creative skills. The goals of the Master of
Music degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can
communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of
music.
NOTE: Students in the M.M. in Collaborative Piano must take a diagnostic exam in diction in Italian, German, and
French during the first week of the semester. Collaborative pianists must contact the Voice Area Coordinator to
schedule this exam. If remedial work is needed in any of these languages, the student will be required to take
undergraduate diction courses.
Major Studies:
MUSAPP 618, Section 22: Applied Ensemble Performance
MUS 592K: Survey of Keyboard Chamber Music
MUS 592G: Survey of Song Literature -- German Lied
MUS 592F: Survey of Song Literature -- French Art Song
MUS 692: Graduate Accompanying Recitals
(3 required, at least 2 full)
8 credits
2 credits
2 credits
2 credits
3 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Electives:
Electives
4 credits
Total for the MM in Collaborative Piano:
33 credits
NOTE: This degree plan is currently under review.
It is expected to be finalized during the Fall 2011 semester.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN COMPOSITION
The Master of Music degree in Composition is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in the
field of composition in order to continue the development of their creative skills and prepare for a career as a
professional composer either in the public sector or in college/university settings. The goals of the Master of Music
degrees are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can
communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of
music.
Major Studies:
MUS 510: Counterpoint
MUS 511: Orchestration
MUS 659: Composition (3 semesters)
MUS 631: Composition Project
MUS 585: Fundamentals of Electronic Music
or MUS 586: MIDI Studio Tech**
or MUS 591C: Seminar in Electronic Music Composition
3 credits
3 credits
6 credits
3 credits*
3 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Ensemble
2 credits
Electives:
Electives
1 credit
Total for the MM in Composition:
33 credits
* Composition Project will consist of one original composition in large form.
** Repeatable
NOTE: A fourth semester of MUS 659 Composition Lessons may be required concurrent with MUS 631
Composition Project. This will be determined by the major professor in consultation with the student.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN CHORAL CONDUCTING
The Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in
conducting in order to continue the development of their creative skills and improve their knowledge of choral
repertoire and their skills at analyzing and conducting choral music. The goals of the Master of Music degree are to
provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can communicate musical
knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS 697C, 697D, 697E, 697F:
Seminars in Choral Conducting (2 credits. each)*
MUS 692G: Choral Conducting Recital**
MUS 697I: Advanced Instrumental Conducting
Choral Ensemble†
MUS AP 517/518: Applied Music (Voice or Piano)
8 credits
3 credits
3 credits
2 credits
2 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Electives:
(Recommended in Languages, Poetry, or Applied Studies)
3 credits
Total for the MM in Choral Conducting:
33 credits
* The Seminars, to be taken in successive semesters, will include Applied Conducting (individual lessons), Choral
Literature and Score Study.
** The Recital will be previewed, and a written document required. Normally, the recital will occur in the
candidate’s final semester.
† It is suggested that each candidate participate in a choral ensemble in each of the four semesters.
Language Requirement
Prior to taking the Comprehensive Oral Examination, candidates must demonstrate basic translation skills in two
languages from among the following: French, German, Italian, and ecclesiastical Latin, to the satisfaction of the
Choral Faculty.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN ORCHESTRAL CONDUCTING
The Master of Music degree in Orchestral Conducting is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study
in the field of conducting in order to continue the development of their creative skills and improve their knowledge
of orchestra repertoire and their skills at analyzing and conducting orchestral music. The goals of the Master of
Music degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can
communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of
music.
Major Studies:
MUS 697J, 697K, 697L, 697M:
Seminars in Orchestral Conducting (2 credits. each)*
MUS 692O: Orchestra Conducting Recital**
MUS 697I: Advanced Instrumental Conducting
Ensemble†
8 credits
3 credits
3 credits
2 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
Electives:
Electives
5 credits
TOTAL for the MM in Orchestral Conducting:
33 credits
*The Seminars, to be taken in successive semesters, will include Applied Conducting (individual lessons), Orchestra
Literature and Score Study.
**The Recital will be previewed, and a written document required.
candidate’s final semester.
Normally, the recital will occur in the
† It is suggested that each candidate participate in an ensemble in each of the four semesters.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN WIND CONDUCTING
The Master of Music degree in Wind Conducting is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in
the field of conducting in order to continue the development of their creative skills and to improve their knowledge
of wind instrument repertoire and their skills at analyzing and conducting music for winds. The goals of the Master
of Music degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can
communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of
music.
Major Studies:
MUS 697N, 697O, 697P, 697Q
Seminars in Wind Conducting (2 credits. each)*
MUS 697I: Advanced Instrumental Conducting
Ensemble†
MUS 692: Conducting Recital**
8 credits
3 credits
2 credits
3 credits.
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document.
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Electives:
5 credits.
Total for the Master of Music in Wind Conducting:
33 credits
*The Seminars, to be taken in successive semesters, will include Applied Conducting (individual lessons), Wind
Literature and Score Study.
**The Recital will be previewed, and a written document required.
candidate’s final semester.
Normally, the recital will occur in the
† It is suggested that each candidate participate in an ensemble in each of the four semesters.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN JAZZ COMPOSITION/ARRANGING
The Master of Music degree in Jazz Composition and Arranging is intended for musicians who desire to pursue
graduate study in the field of jazz studies in order to enhance their own artistry and prepare for professional careers
in the jazz field. The goals of the Master of Music degree program are to provide advanced training in a specific
emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and
prepare students for employment in the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS 659: Composition/Arranging (3 semesters)
MUS 697G: Jazz Analysis
MUS 631: Composition Project/Recital
MUS 586: MIDI Studio Tech OR
MUS 585: Fund. of Electronic Music
MUS 595J: History of Jazz
9 credits*
3 credits
2 credits**
3 credits
3 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: One required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
3 credits
HISTORY: One required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
3 credits
MUS 510: Counterpoint
or MUS 511: Orchestration
3 credits
Ensemble
1 credit
Electives:
Electives
3 credits
33 credits
Total for the MM in Jazz Composition/Arranging:
* Majors are required to complete a portfolio consisting of:
 1 composition or arrangement for large jazz ensemble
 1 composition or arrangement for studio orchestra
 1 composition or arrangement for a cappella voices
 1 composition or arrangement for SATB with rhythm section
 1 composition or arrangement for nine-ten piece ensemble
 1 choice of a composition or arrangement for either a large jazz ensemble or solo voice in large
ensemble/studio orchestra/nine-ten piece ensemble
 1 composition or arrangement for chamber jazz ensemble from sextet to nonet
 1 elective, a repeat of one of the above or a different combination

The portfolio should include both arrangements and compositions.
** Composition Project/Recital (Mus 631) will consist of one original composition in large form, and will anchor
the writing recital, serve in lieu of a thesis, and be part of the oral examination content. Please see the Mus 631
Composition Project syllabus for further details.
NOTE: This degree plan is currently under review.
It is expected to be finalized during the Fall 2011 semester.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN MUSIC EDUCATION
The Master of Music degree in Music Education is intended for musicians/teachers who desire to pursue graduate
study in the field of music education in order to continue the development of their creative and pedagogical skills and
their understanding as music teachers in public and private K-12 settings. The goals of the Master of Music degree
are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can communicate
musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS ED 691P-Philosophies of Arts & Music
MUS ED 621-Research in Music Education
3 credits
3 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Ensemble
2 credits+
Electives:
Elective
13 credits*
*The elective hours may be used for any of the concentrations listed below or used at the student’s discretion for the
basic program outlined above. See pages 4 and 5 of this handbook for specific admission/audition information.
(1)
Research Program. Thesis required
MUS ED 696-Independent Study in Music Education
3 credits
MUS ED 699-Thesis
6 credits
Electives
4 credits
(2) Applied Music Program. Full Recital on major instrument required
MUS AP 517: Applied Music
6 credits
MUS 630: Recital
2 credits
Electives in Music Education
5 credits
(3) Conducting Program. Conducting a full public program required
**MUS ED 691: Advanced Conducting & Techniques
6 credits
MUS ED 696: Independent Study in Music Education
3 credits
MUS ED 697B: Internship
2 credits
Electives
2 credits
(4) Kodaly Program. In conjunction with the Kodaly Institute at the New England Conservatory of Music, students
may transfer 8 credits of their Kodaly study to the MM in Music Education degree. Students may then pay UMass
Amherst tuition for 7 additional credits to be counted as elective credits in the degree program. In effect, this allows
15 credits toward the total of 33 to be earned as part of the Kodaly Institute studies. The remaining 18 credits of
Music Studies academic requirements must be completed on the Amherst campus either during the regular academic
year or through the 4-Summer program.
+4-Summers Masters Students do not enroll in ensembles. Instead, the number of electives increases to 15.
Capstone: The Master of Music with a concentration in Music Education culminates in a capstone project, which must be
relevant to and consistent with the student’s area of emphasis (research thesis, performance project, or field-based project). It
may be an expansion of work begun in program coursework. By the end of the first year or summer of study, the candidate, in
collaboration with the Coordinator of Music Education and the Graduate Program Director, must form a capstone
committee. For more information on the capstone process, candidates should consult with the Coordinator of Music
Education. Candidates exploring a thesis should also reference the Graduate School publication, Guidelines for Theses and
Dissertations.
**In the Choral Conducting program, the 6 credits of MUS ED: 691 are to be divided as follows:
Seminar: Advanced Choral Conducting ..................................................................................... 2 credits
Seminar: Conductor’s Analysis/Score Study .............................................................................. 2 credits
Independent Study (Choral Literature) ....................................................................................... 2 credits
The seminars are to be taken in the first year, the independent study in the first semester of the second year, and the
required recital in the second semester of the second year
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN MUSIC HISTORY
The Master of Music degree in Music History is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in the
field of music history and literature in order to continue the development of their creative skills, The degree intended
for research-oriented students who wish to prepare for a career in Music History, either in preparation for doctoral
study, teaching at the college or university level, or in music librarianship. The goals of the Master of Music degree
are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can communicate
musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS 600: Bibliography
MUS 601: Seminar in Music History II: Research in Music History
Music History 500-507
Thesis
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
6 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
Ensemble
6 credits
2 credits
Electives:
Electives
4 credits
Total for the MM in Music History:
33 credits
*Approved courses also include graduate history seminars taught on a one-time basis. Check with the Coordinator
of Music History to confirm.
Language Requirements: All Music History majors must demonstrate reading ability in one foreign language,
preferably French or German, before beginning work on the thesis. A faculty member in the relevant language
department will administer the proficiency test and will report the result (in writing) to the Graduate Program
Director. The student is responsible for making all arrangements for the proficiency test.
Thesis: The two-year program culminates in a thesis, usually an expansion of work begun in MUS 601 or a course
project in one of the Music History courses. By the end of the candidate’s first year of study, a thesis committee
must be formed by the candidate, in conjunction with the Coordinator of Music History and the Graduate Program
Director. For more information on the thesis process, candidates should consult the Graduate School publication,
Guidelines for Theses and Dissertations.
NOTE: This degree plan is currently under review.
It is expected to be finalized during the Fall 2011 semester.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN MUSIC THEORY
The Master of Music degree in Music Theory is intended for musicians who desire to pursue graduate study in the
field of theory studies in order to continue the development of their analytical and creative skills. The degree is
intended for students who wish to prepare for an academic career in music theory, either in preparation for doctoral
study or for college teaching. The curriculum emphasizes is on relevant courses and supervised classroom teaching.
The goals of the Master of Music degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees
to students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment
in the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS 510: Counterpoint
MUS 600: Bibliography
MUS 695T: History of Theory
MUS 615: Pedagogy of Theory
MUS 699: Thesis
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
5 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Ensemble
2 credits
Electives:
Non-Theory Electives
2 credits
Total for the MM in Music Theory:
33 credits
Thesis: The two-year program culminates in a thesis. Working in conjunction with the Coordinator of Music
Theory and the Graduate Program Director, students must form a thesis committee no later than during their third
semester of coursework. Before proceeding to work on the thesis, students must complete a thesis proposal (a
document, typically 10-20 pages in length, that lays out the scope, depth, and methodology of the thesis,
accompanied by an annotated bibliography), which must be approved by their thesis committee. For more
information on the thesis process, candidates should consult the Graduate School publication, Guidelines for Theses
and Dissertations.
NOTE: This degree plan is currently under review.
It is expected to be finalized during the Fall 2011 semester.
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MASTER OF MUSIC IN PERFORMANCE
The Master of Music degree in Performance is intended for students who desire to pursue graduate study in the field
of performance in order to continue the development of their creative skills and their preparation for a career as a
professional performer or studio teacher. The primary curricular emphasis is on applied study and performance. The
goals of the Master of Music degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to
students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for employment in
the field of music.
Major Studies:
MUS AP 618: Applied Music
MUS 697A: Repertoire
MUS 630: Graduate Recital
8 credits+**
2 credits
2 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Ensemble
4 credits*
Electives:
Electives
5 credits
Total for the MM in Performance:
33 credits
+Enrollment in applied study requires concurrent enrollment in one of the department’s large ensembles as specified
in the department’s Graduate Program Ensemble Policy..
*Ensemble credit for string players is allocated only for the University Orchestra. For wind, brass, and percussion
players, credits are allocated for the orchestra, wind ensemble, symphony band or, for jazz composition students, the
jazz ensemble.
**All Vocal Performance majors are required to show proficiency in pronouncing and translating two of the
following three languages (in addition to English): German, French, Italian. In the case of a student whose native
language is one other than English, German, French, or Italian and for whom the perfecting of English diction is a
necessary priority, an exception may be made to permit English as a substitute for one of the above languages. The
voice faculty is responsible for this decision and will notify the Graduate Program Director in writing. At the time of
enrollment into the graduate program, the student’s applied teacher will conduct a test and advise the student if
remedial work is necessary. By the end of the semester preceding the student’s degree-required recital, the voice
faculty will test the student’s pronunciation and comprehension skills, offering typical song texts to be read and
translated. The use of a dictionary is allowed.
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DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN MUSIC DEGREE
Goals:
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music is intended for advanced musician/scholars who desire to complete their
graduate study in a specific area of music and continue the development of their creative, analytical, theoretical,
pedagogical and scholarly analytical skills and knowledge. The goals of the degree are to provide advanced training
in a specific emphasis area, confer degrees to students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written
form and prepare students for employment at colleges and universities.
Objectives:
 To equip students with the ability to understand music’s aesthetic content, structure, place in history, and
role in contemporary society.
 To develop those talents and skills necessary to compete as professional musician/scholars. Such talents
and skills include extensive foundations in theoretical analysis and history, advanced knowledge in one
area of music work, scholarship, research skills and knowledge of current trends in their specific emphasis
area.
 To develop students’ individual talents and skills beyond that attainable at the masters level study, thereby
providing the scholarly music community with a select group of creative and artistic people who will
promote the art of music.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Music is offered in two concentrations—Music Education and Music Theory.
Admission to the Program
To be admitted to either doctoral concentration, an applicant must:
(1) Submit a detailed resume of training and experience with supportive evidence of extensive preparation to
determine eligibility for advanced study
(2) Provide evidence of requisite writing and research skills in the form of the master’s thesis and/or major research
paper(s)
(3) Complete diagnostic examinations in music history and music theory specific to the Ph.D program. The exams
are taken during the application process. The two exams identify any deficiencies that must be addressed during the
residency. An applicant must pass both diagnostic exams before he/she is permitted to take the qualifying exams.
On the basis of the results of the preliminary evaluation procedures, an applicant, if accepted, may be advised to take
courses to eliminate deficiencies or to strengthen desired cognate areas.
PLEASE NOTE for Music Theory Applicants: Ph.D. students must have completed a masters degree in music,
comprising 33 credits of coursework including bibliography, counterpoint, history of theory, pedagogy of theory,
and other courses as required in the UMass M.M. with a concentration in Music Theory.
Residence Requirement: A Ph.D. student must spend a minimum of one academic year of full-time study beyond
the Master’s degree in residence. This year may include the usual fall-spring or the spring-fall sequence. Summer
session, however, will not serve as part of a two-semester sequence.
Degree Requirements: The Ph.D. degree is conferred upon satisfactory completion of a curriculum consisting of a
minimum of sixty semester hours of approved course work beyond the Master’s degree in Music, including eighteen
hours of dissertation credit.
Language Proficiency Requirement: Ph.D. candidates in Music Theory must demonstrate reading skill in two of
the following languages: German, French, Italian, or another language as may be required for the dissertation and as
approved by the student’s advisory committee. The language requirement should be fulfilled as early as possible
after a student has entered the program and not later than one full semester prior to the qualifying examination. A
faculty member in the relevant language department will administer the proficiency test and will report the result (in
writing) to the Graduate Program Director. The student is responsible for making all arrangements for the
proficiency test. Students are allowed to use a dictionary during these exams as well as one or two other books
(such as a conjugation text) for use during the exams. No other materials (including electronic references, laptops,
PDAs, cell phones, etc.) are allowed.
24
Research Tools: All candidates for the Ph.D. in Music Education will demonstrate skills with various research
designs, methods, and statistics. This requirement is to be determined in consultation with the Music Education
doctoral advisor as the candidate begins the program of study.
Qualifying Exams and Admission to Candidacy
Prior to scheduling the Qualifying Exam, doctoral students must complete written exams in support areas of music
study. Doctoral students in music education must take exams in music theory and music history while doctoral
students in music theory will take an exam in music history. Once those exams are completed satisfactorily, a
student may schedule the qualifying exam. The admission to candidacy follows the successful completion of the
written and oral portions of the qualifying examination. Students in music education will be examined in music
education. Students in music theory will be examined in music theory. The qualifying examination may be
scheduled at any time during the semester when all members of the Advisory Committee are available and as
designated by the Graduate Program Director. All portions of the examination are to be completed within one
month and must be passed prior to registering for the doctoral dissertation.
In the event the qualifying examination or any part thereof is failed, it may be repeated only once, in a manner and
in such depth as may be determined by the Advisory Committee and the Graduate Program Director. This reexamination will be scheduled at a mutually satisfactory time within a period of not less than one semester or more
than one year from the date of the first examination.
Final Oral Examination (Dissertation Defense): After satisfactorily completing all required course work and
passing the qualifying examination, and after the approval of the final draft of the dissertation, the candidate will be
eligible for the final oral examination. The Office of Graduate Degree Requirements must be informed at least three
weeks in advance of the date and time of this examination, to which all members of the University’s Graduate
Faculty are invited.
25
Degree Checklist
8/5/11
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN MUSIC: MUSIC EDUCATION
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music is intended for advanced musician/scholars who desire to complete their
graduate study in a specific area of music scholarship in order to continue the development of their creative and
analytical skills. The goals of the degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer
degrees to students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for
employment at colleges and universities.
Objectives:
 To equip students with the ability to understand music’s aesthetic content, structure, place in history, and
role in contemporary society.
 To develop those talents and skills necessary to compete as professional musician/scholars. Such talents
and skills include extensive foundations in theoretical analysis and history, advanced knowledge in one
area of music work, research skills and knowledge of current trends in their specific emphasis area.
 To develop students’ individual talents and skills beyond that attainable at the masters level study, thereby
providing the scholarly music community with a select group of creative and artistic people who will
promote the art of music.
Program - Sixty semester hours of approved course work beyond the Master’s Degree that include eighteen hours
of dissertation credit. See p. 15 for specific Music Education Master’s Degree course requirements.
Admission to program – In addition to the general requirements listed above, applicants must satisfy the following
requirements before being admitted:
1.
2.
Possession of a Master’s degree in music with a concentration in music education, or an equivalency in
courses beyond the bachelor level.
A minimum of two years of successful teaching experience in public or accredited private schools, colleges
or universities. At least two recommendations from school officials must be submitted.
Diagnostic Exams:
History (Date Passed)__________________
Theory (Date Passed)____________________
Major Studies:
MUS ED 621: Research in Music Education
Statistical Research (various courses)
MUS ED 691P: Philosophies of Art and Music
MUS ED 791C:College Music Curriculum
MUS 899: Dissertation
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
18 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
6 credits
Electives:
Music Cognate Minor Requirements:
Non-Music Cognate Minor Requirements:
9 credits
9 credits
Degree Total:
60 credits
26
Degree Checklist
8/5/11
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN MUSIC: MUSIC THEORY
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Music is intended for advanced musician/scholars who desire to complete their
graduate study in a specific area of music scholarship in order to continue the development of their creative and
analytical skills. The goals of the degree are to provide advanced training in a specific emphasis area, confer
degrees to students who can communicate musical knowledge in oral and written form and prepare students for
employment at colleges and universities.
Objectives:



To equip students with the ability to understand music’s aesthetic content, structure, place in history, and role in
contemporary society.
To develop those talents and skills necessary to compete as professional musician/scholars. Such talents and skills
include extensive foundations in theoretical analysis and history, advanced knowledge in one area of music work,
research skills and knowledge of current trends in their specific emphasis area.
To develop students’ individual talents and skills beyond that attainable at the masters level study, thereby providing
the scholarly music community with a select group of creative and artistic people who would promote the art of music.
Program - Sixty semester hours of approved course work beyond the Master’s degree, which include eighteen hours
of dissertation credit. See p. 20 for specific Music Theory Master’s Degree course requirements.
Admission to program – In addition to the general requirements listed on p. 8, applicants must satisfy the following
requirements before being admitted:
1.
2.
Possession of a Master’s degree in music with a concentration in theory.
The Master’s Thesis and other major analytic paper(s).
IMPORTANT COURSE INFORMATION: Incoming students must have completed all the requirements for the M.M. in Music Theory
as presented in the department’s M.M. with a concentration in Music Theory program. Requirements in the department’s M.M. degree
include MUS 600 Bibliography and MUS 793 History of Theory. If students have a M.M. in Music Theory but have not taken the
equivalent to these two courses, they will be required to take them as they begin their doctoral studies. MUS 600 and MUS 793 may be
used to fulfill the Ph.D. elective requirements.
Diagnostic Exams:
History (Date Passed)__________________
Language Proficiency 1 (Language/Date Passed) __________________________________
Language Proficiency 2 (Language/Date Passed) __________________________________
Major Studies:
MUS 691E: General Readings in Music Theory
MUS 591S: Post-Tonal Theory
MUS 790: Sem/Prac. Teaching
MUS 791: Ind. Teaching
MUS 697S: Schenkerian Analysis
MUS 659: Composition
MUS 899: Dissertation
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
3 credits
18 credits
Other Music Studies:
THEORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page nine of this document
6 credits
HISTORY: Two required from among the approved courses listed
on page eight of this document
6 credits
Electives:
Electives
12 credits
Degree Total:
60 credits
NOTE: This degree plan is currently under review.
It is expected to be finalized during the Fall 2011 semester.
27
A STUDENT “UNOFFICIAL GUIDE” TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC AND DANCE
2011 - 2012
Welcome to UMass!
The following is an unofficial and informal guide that was assembled by the violin studio. It is intended
only to help orient new music students to the university campus and surrounding communities. The Department of
Music & Dance does not assume any responsibility for the accuracy of the content.
ORIENTATION
As a start, here is a list of our department websites as well as some studio websites.
www.umass.edu/music
www.umass.edu/violin
www.umass.edu/viola
www.umass.edu/opusone (our Chamber Orchestra)
www.umass.edu/saxophone
www.umass.edu/horn
FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE:
Graduate students:
As a graduate student you can choose to live either on or off campus. If you decide to live on campus you will be
assigned to Cashin Hall in the Sylvan area of campus. Living on campus can be convenient because you have the
option of walking to the Fine Arts Center as opposed to driving, but you should allocate between 15 and 20 minutes
to walk to/from Cashin because it is about a mile away. Cashin provides suite-style living with a common room and
bathroom shared between roughly 6 students. There is one communal kitchen in the building. The suites themselves
are generally comprised of two doubles and two singles. Floor plans and additional information on Cashin Hall can
be found here: http://www.housing.umass.edu/reshalls/syl_cashin.html#one. The fee for graduate housing is
approximately $5176 for 9 months; so, the cost of living on campus breaks down to about $575 a month (all utilities
included).
Alternatively, there is the option of living off campus. There are many resources that can aid in the search for offcampus housing. One is the very helpful UMass Off Campus Housing Referral site (http://www.umoch.org/).
There, you can search based on desired city and even filter results according to utilities included, amenities, and
price range, as well as search for potential roommates/housemates and find information on nearby apartment
complexes and other resources. Craigslist is also a great place to search for possible off-campus housing, but do be
wary of what you find there. With Craigslist, always call and ask to see the space being offered. Northamptonspecific rental agencies can be found at the following: www.rentnoho.com, www.robinsonre.com, and
www.holtre.net. Additionally, you can access the entire MLS database through Goggins real estate
(www.gogginsrealestate.com/for-buyers/search-area-listings.html).
You have different possibilities when you decide to live off campus. Usually, the most economical is to rent a room
in a house or to share an apartment with another student. There is also the possibility of home sharing, where the
rent is in exchange of in-home services or companionship. Some things to keep in mind when finding a place:
1) Mobility: if you don’t have a car, make sure that you rent a place that is on the bus line and that the bus
stop is not far from your apartment (winter can be very cold and snowy, and walking several blocks to the bus stop
can be painful). If you do have a car, you might be able to find places a little bit cheaper because they are not on the
bus line. However, parking on campus can be expensive and difficult, so you might want to consider a place near
the bus line anyway. Gas expenses should also factor into your calculations if you decide to live farther away
because the rent is better.
2) Expenses: some apartments have the heat and electricity included in the monthly rent. If you rent a
place in which they are not included, be prepared to pay sometimes an extra $100 during winter for heating and
electricity.
3) Laundry: some apartment complexes have laundry facilities, which can be most convenient especially
if you don’t have a car. If no facilities are available, then you will have to go to one of the Laundromats in town.
4) Leasing contracts: be sure to take into consideration the length of time for which you’re considering
staying in the area and look for leasing contracts that match your residence needs. You can find year long, 9-month,
6-month, and month-to-month contracts. If you sign a year long lease and you are not planning on staying in
Amherst during the summer, you might want to sublease you apartment. In this case, make sure that your landlord
allows subleasing.
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5) Location: most students choose to live in Amherst because it is closer to UMass. However, if you
have a car and are willing to commute, you might be able to find cheaper rentals in one of the nearby towns of
Hadley, Northampton, Pelham, Belchertown, Sunderland, and Leverett.
6) Furnishings: Some rental apartment or rooms are furnished. If you rent an unfurnished place, you can
take an advantage of the multiple garage sales that take place at the end of the summer to find cheap furniture.
Again, Craigslist is also a great place to find freebies/near-freebies.
The relationship landlord-tenant can be difficult sometimes. To protect yourself, always get everything in
writing, and make sure you have a written lease outlining your responsibilities and the responsibilities of your
landlord. Remember that if you have any doubts about your contract or you run into difficult situations with your
landlord, you can go to the Legal Services at the University where they will inform you about your rights and
responsibilities as a tenant and give you advice.
7) Miscellaneous: Be sure to look into the noise factor in your living situation. Many student living
arrangements have a large party scene. Practicing at home may or may not be possible.
THE UNIVERSITY
UCard
Once you arrive on campus, you will need to obtain your UCard. Go to the UCard office in Whitmore Hall, first
floor Rm. 168. The office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm, and the phone number is (413) 545
0197.
OIT Account
Every UMass student must have an OIT account. This will allow you to log onto any computer lab on campus, as
well as access all the library resources from off campus. You will also have an e-mail account. As a new student
you will receive a packet with all the information about OIT and directions to activate your account on-line.
If you do not receive this packet, you must go in person, with your valid UCard (UMass picture ID) to open a new
account, add a service, or to have your password reset if you forget it. This is a security precaution to protect you
and the privacy of your account.
GEO organization
The Graduate Employee Organization (http://www.geouaw.org/ )is an organization that looks out for the interests of
graduate students in the University. They are located in the 201 Student Union. If you have any questions you can
always stop by and they will usually answer and clear out any doubts.
When you sign your contract as a T.A. you will have the option to pay a membership to be part of the organization
and as a GEO member will have many advantages regarding your health insurance. You will also be able to sign for
Dental and Vision insurance, what makes the cost very low.
Check the benefits in this website:
http://www.umass.edu/communication/graduate/benefits.shtml
Billing for Graduate students
Even though many graduate students have tuition waivers, there are still some University fees for which you are
responsible. Fees total approximately $700 each semester with a one time only graduate entering fee of
approximately $360 which is due your first semester. It is possible to have fees deducted from your paycheck.
It is very common (especially during the first semester) to receive a scary bill for a couple thousand dollars. DON’T
PAY IT! Go to the Bursar’s Office in Whitmore Administration Building and talk to them. The problem seems to
be that it takes them a while to process your health insurance waiver. That fee should be dropped.
Spire
Plan on investing some time when you are going to use Spire to register for your classes as the system tends to go
down every now and then when everybody is trying to register and you might have to wait till the next day. Avoid
registering for your classes the day before the deadline to avoid complications. Make sure to meet with the Graduate
advisor in order to figure out how many credits you are required to have and which are the classes that are being
offered.
Five College Library System (and IMSLP):
A good place to look for music is imslp.org as your piece might be out of copyright, and available on this website
for download. The edition will likely not be great, but it's a wonderful place to find a score. Should your needs not
be satisfied by IMSLP, or the UMass Library itself (which has some great editions on reserve - 3rd floor of the
library; general music on the 21st floor), be sure to take advantage of the Five College System. There are many
works to be found at Smith and Amherst College, for example, as well as a plethora of CDs. Should you still be out
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of luck, UMass takes part in an Interlibrary Loan system, so you can search libraries around the nation for your
work, though be prepared to wait a few weeks. Additionally, don't forget to renew your loans if you are unable to
return them. Library fees can rack up fast and place holds on your account.
LIVING
Food
Meal PlanIf you’re living on campus, there is the option of purchasing a meal plan. According to the university, the “value
plan” is $1969 for a semester, or $3938 for 9 months—this breaks down to $437.55 a month. Which is A LOT!
Unless you have a true repulsion for cooking your own meals, it might be best to avoid this option. For students
who commute to campus, there is the option of a 60-meal meal plan. The 60 meal plan is actually very convenient,
since sometimes you won’t have time to cook and the food at the UMass Dining is surprisingly good. More
information on campus meal plans can be found here: http://www.umassdining.com/meal-plans/residential-mealplans/.
The Newman Center and Blue Wall (in the Campus Center) are the nearest places to eat besides the dining hall.
They are a good option for fast snacks--for a full meal the dining hall is cheaper ($8.50 for lunch).
Where to shopThere are several places to shop for food in the area. “Big Y” market on University Drive is fairly cheap. The
quality of food varies. “Stop & Shop,” on Route 9 is generally slightly more expensive and higher quality. “Trader
Joe’s” is further West on Route 9, next to the Hampshire Mall and is a smaller market with more unusual choices.
The products are high quality and the prices are very good for the quality. “Whole Foods” is even further West on
Route 9. “Whole Foods” carries all natural and organic foods. Their fruits and vegetables are very high quality.
They have a very large selection throughout the store. Their prices can be very expensive. All of these places can
be reached on the PVTA bus. For your reference, $150-$200 worth of groceries from Trader Joe’s tends to be
enough for 1 month of food, and from experience, TJ’s has proven to be consistently affordable—even in
comparison to Stop & Shop—and provides many conscientiously and sustainably sourced foods. There are also
plenty of local farmers’ markets you can get dairy and produce, and sometimes they even have meat! It’s a great
way to go outside and support the community and get a chore done!
Where to eat outThere are a lot of restaurants in the area. You can find listings at the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce website:
http://www.amherstarea.com/amherst/index.cfm. Also, Northampton is called “The Paradise City” for a reason—
great food, art/music scene, and nightlife. They have a little bit of every kind of food, including but most certainly
not limited to Tibetan, Thai, Indian, Moroccan, Korean, and Japanese!
Coffee:
Coffee is essential to many students, and luckily the options abound both on campus and off. On campus, coffee is
available starting at 7:00 AM from all locations. In the Campus Center, Bluewall has bad coffee, while Pura Vida
and The French Meadow Cafe have much better choices but close relatively early. Should you be looking for a fix
later in the night, the convenience stores (http://www.umassdining.com/locations/around-campus/) have bad coffee,
though many of them stop brewing in the early evening. The Newman Center Cafe is another option, and if you're
up super late (weeknights only), you might find yourself at the Procrastination Station in the library (which serves
coffee till 2:00 AM).
Venturing into town yields many more options. There is of course a Starbuck's, which is open early and closes late.
Local choices include Rao's (a rather earthy scene) and Amherst Coffee (a rather yuppie scene). The following
stores also have somewhat decent coffee available, should you find yourself with no other choice: Bart's (ice cream),
The Black Sheep (a deli of sorts), and Loose Goose Cafe. Last resort options in town include DBMart and Cousin's
Market. If you venture down Route 9, you can find more coffee at The Route 9 Diner (open 24/7), Dunkin Donuts
(there are two, the closer being in the Big Y lot), and Esselon Cafe (excellent should you have the time).
Northampton has several options, and if you venture north on Route 116, you will come across two Seven-Elevens.
A Word to the WiseUnfortunately, there are only beverage vending machines in the FAC, so if you know your
work/practice/rehearsal/class/lesson schedule has you in the building for hours on end—which isn’t all that
uncommon—it’s a great idea to keep some snacks in your locker…unless you can tame hunger-induced mood
swings with soda alone.
Banks:
There are multiple Bank of America ATMs on campus, though only the ones in the Campus Center and the one
behind The Newman Center have full functionality. If you just need cash, there are ATMs next to every dining
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common. Should you not have Bank of America (of which there is main branch in town, as well as some ATMs),
there are two TD Bank locations in town, as well as some local alternatives (google for more information) including
a Sovereign Bank ATM in the CVS in town.
Keys:
As a grad student, you may receive key to your professor's office/studio. These rooms provide a much friendlier
environment to do work or practice. However, you may find yourself locked out at some point. If such an event
occurs during the week after the main office is closed, and before midnight, you can ask the custodian who is
frequently around at night.
Computer access:
There are computers all over campus and wireless internet is available in most buildings. There are several
computers available in the Music Reserve Lab, room 149 in the FAC. But if you need to print documents, you can
go to OIT Classroom 444 on the 4th floor of FAC. The OIT Computer Classrooms provide teaching spaces for
faculty who need students to have access to computers during class meetings. When not being used for teaching,
students, faculty and staff have access to the Computer Classroom facilities. OIT provides 11 classrooms around
campus. You can find one near to you on the Address below:
http://www.oit.umass.edu/classrooms/info/locations.htm
Printing & Copying:
As a student, you begin each semester with a limited credit that you can use with any UMass Library printer. While
this credit quickly runs out, you can add money to your UCard (umass.edu/ucard) in order to print more. Compatible
printers are located at all libraries and in OIT classrooms (the nearest of which is on the 4th floor of the FAC - Room
444). In emergencies, you might be able to ask the secretaries in the main office for permission to print with their
printers.
Grad students should be given access to their studio professor's copy code. Use this privilege sparingly as each
professor has a budgeted quota. If special copying needs to be done (i.e. color, binding, etc.) there is a copy center
on campus, though you may also find yourself utilizing the copy centers in town (Copy Cat & Collective Copies google for more information).
Laundry and Dry Cleaning:
If you live off campus, you can use the addresses below for laundry, otherwise all residence halls provide laundry
machines.
Laundry Club: 6 University Dr. Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 549-2640
Amherst Laundry: 326 College St. Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 253-4902
Dirty Business Laundry: 196 N. Pleasant St. Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 256-3478
There are several places to get your clothing dry cleaned. There are two close to campus: Minuteman Dry Cleaners
(413) 549-3612 right in town, in the plaza near The Pub) is the closest, but pricey and maybe not the best service.
The Laundry Club (right behind Southwest), which is purportedly decent: 413) 549-2640. Should you not be pressed
for time, there is a Battiston's ((413) 256-2167) on Route 9 and College Dry Cleaner’s near Amherst College:(413)
253-5523.
Student Activities
The Student Activities Center supports one of the most unique and diversified student activities programs in the
country. In addition to over 200 Registered Student Organization (RSO’s) there are 11 student government
organizations, 10 student run businesses, fraternities, sororities and 12 staffed agencies. Students working with the
Student Activities Center staff, in conjunction with the Student Government Association, acquire invaluable
practical knowledge. This knowledge includes leadership, social, recreational, team building and community
outreach opportunities that allow for personal and group growth experiences. The Cultural Centers (formerly part of
the Student Activities Center) are under the area of Enrollment Services, located in 208 Whitmore Building.
Enrollment Services can be reached by calling 545-0428.
Working Out
Boyden Fitness Center: UMass just opened a brand new Campus Recreation Center. It is a beautiful facility with
brand new and very modern equipment. However fees are quite expensive. You can check out the website for more
information about it including fees: http://www.umass.edu/campusrec/index.html
Planet Fitness behind Wal-Mart on Route 9 (335 Russell St., Hadley) is really cheap at $10/month. You can get
there by bus.
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HEALTH
UMass Health Services
(413) 577-5000
University Health Services is open 24 hours a day during the semester, and from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight)
during the summer and winter breaks.
Urgent Care For urgent situations, such as possible fractures, asthma attacks, severe abdominal pain, etc., come to
the Urgent Care Clinic located on the first floor of UHS, to the right of the main entrance. Call the Triage Advice
Nurse (577-5229) before coming to Urgent Care. This is the best way to reduce your waiting time. The Triage
Advice Nurse will evaluate your situation and help you determine and follow the best course of care: self-care or
home treatment, clinic appointment, visit to the Urgent Care Clinic, or transportation by ambulance directly to the
hospital.
1) Check in at the Member Services Registration/Information Area (Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm); or at the
Medial Records Area (after 5:00 pm or on weekends);
2) Visit the Dispatch Coordinator;
3) Visit the Triage Advice Nurse, who will assess your situation and establish the medical priority of problems that
are to be seen;
4) Please understand that the actual waiting time may vary (from a few minutes up to an hour or more) depending on
the number of patients waiting to be seen and the complexity of their situations
To Make an Appointment at UHS, call 577-5101.
Contraception appointments can be made through your primary care practitioner (577-5101). Don’t forget to
attend a Contraceptive Choices education session before your appointment and bring the pink form to your
practitioner. For more information about Contraceptive Choices, call 577-5181.
How long will the pharmacy hold a prescription after it has been requested? That depends on the medication
prescribed; generally, the maximum is 14 days. It’s always best to pick up your prescription as soon as possible.
Prescription refills: To refill a UHS prescription, call 577-5066 and follow the system prompts. Be ready to
provide the patient’s name and date of birth, along with the prescription number or the medication name.
Prescription refills will be ready for pickup on the next business day.
How To Be Seen at UHS:
How Best to Seek the Care You Need
Routine Care For all routine appointments, such as annual physicals, routine gynecological or contraception visits,
well baby check-ups, or follow up visits, simply call the main appointment desk at 577-5101.
Same Day or Next Day Care For an acute problem that needs care on the same day or the next day, call the Triage
Advice Nurse, at 577-5229, who will assist you in receiving appropriate care. Reasons to seek a same day or next
day appointment might include an upper respiratory problem, an ear infection, a gynecological infection, a urinary
tract infection, symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease, etc.
Counseling
Let's be honest. School can be stressful, especially as a musician. If you find yourself taking on more gigs and more
work, practicing into the night, or just not adapting to the barren landscape of Western Massachusetts and its people,
you might just need some counseling. Luckily the school provides mental health services should you have insurance
and the need for help. You can reach them at (413) 545-2337 or
http://www.umass.edu/uhs/counseling/.Additionally, the school provides Disability Services, and an Ombuds Office.
Take advantage of these resources, and remember that it's never embarrassing to ask for help.
GETTING AROUND
By car: If you are going to get around by car, your main concern will be where to park:
UMass Parking Services provides both year-long and temporary permits to students, employees, faculty members,
and visitors to the Amherst campus.
If you do not have a car, check out Zip Car: www.zipcar.com. Here you can rent a car with hourly rates, so you have
the chance to pay very little if you need a car just for a couple of hours.
Parking
Parking Services offers several types of permits categorized by lot type, customer group, and
duration.All University members can purchase year-long and most special purpose permits using the secure online
system. Buy a parking permit. Do this early!!!! The good lots go quickly! There are discounted rates for GEO
(Graduate Employee Organization) members.
Other options:
○ You can park at the visitors’ lot across from Haigis Mall. These spots are electronically metered.
○ You can park at the Hampshire Mall or the Big Y on University Drive and take bus in.
○ The closest parking lot to the Music Dept. is the First Baptist Church lot on North Pleasant Streetit's only a 5-minute walk. The price is around $325/ year, more expensive if you pay by semester.
○ Another possibility is the Parking Garage, which is further away and is not cheap ($1.50 per hour).
○
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○
○
○
There is also metered parking around campus. If you do this, make sure you have enough quarters
as you will get a ticket if you run out of minutes and you need to pay these tickets in order to
graduate.
The parking lot (#62) in front of the music department is not the best place to park. Yes, there is
metered parking there, and if you get one of those spots, kudos, but other than those spots, that lot
if pretty much just for faculty and staff.
Don't park behind FAC until after midnight. Parking Services recently hired a night shift that will
ticket or tow your car if left behind the building without an appropriate pass (a yellow card that
must be granted to you from the main office). If you are really in a bind, you may put your
blinkers on and have your car parked for loading for up to 15 minutes. Some have gotten away
with doing this for longer, but be prepared to have AAA on speed dial in case your blinkers eat
your battery.
By bus: UMass Transit services the Five Colleges as well as the towns of Amherst, Belchertown, Deerfield, Granby,
Hadley, Northampton, South Hadley, and Sunderland for the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA).
For complete and updated bus schedules and information, visit:
http://www.umass.edu/campus_services/transit/schedules_maps.html
The bus system is generally okay. Be prepared however, as there are instances when the buses do not run according
the schedule. If you have a smartphone, there is a mobile version of the PVTA website with the schedule. If you are
near a computer, there is a bus tracker that UMass provides that tracks the buses in real time so you know where
your bus is (google: umass bus tracker). When holidays and weekends come around, be sure to check the schedule
as they will run much less frequently than they do during the week. Additionally, the buses run later on Thursday
and Friday nights. Finally, the buses that go through campus are free. There are buses that will take you to all five
colleges, and also the B43 bus (free as well), which can take you to the Hampshire Mall as well as Northampton, but
you will be asked to show your student ID, so if you take this bus, be sure you have your UCard with you.
Traveling to Other Cities:
You might have the need or the itch to travel to one of the neighboring cities. Boston is 90 miles away, and NYC is
about 180 miles away with Hartford in the middle. There are buses that can get you to all these places (Megabus,
which costs $1 if you book well in advance, and Peter Pan, which is costly, but has a much friendlier scheduler).
There are also trains via the Amtrak stop in town, near Bruno's Pizza (down Main St.). If you have a car, ask around
for the best route to take (some might suggest a backroad with less traffic), or use Mapquest or Google Maps to plan
your drive.
Airports:
The closest airport is Bradley International Airport, just outside of Hartford. Another option is Logan in Boston. If
no one can drive you to one of these airports, there are taxi services, but they are bound to be pricey. Google for
more information.
Cabs:
Recently, a bunch of cab companies have made their way into Amherst, usually catering to the party crowds on the
weekend. However, should you find yourself in a bind without a ride, you can call any these companies, though be
sure to pay a pretty penny: http://local.yahoo.com/MA/Amherst/Travel+Lodging/Taxi+Services
Lodging for guests:
There is a hotel on campus, but it's extremely expensive. Many options can be found along Route 9, which are
cheaper and better, and great if you have some kind of rewards program. To name a few: Holiday Inn, Howard
Johnson's, and Comfort Inn. That being said, when you graduate, be sure to book a room for family and friends very
far in advance (the beginning of the said semester at the latest) as the rooms will fill up fast and only get more
expensive as time goes on.
WORK
Auxiliary Services employs more than 1000 UMass students. There is work in the Campus Center, the Hotel, the
Dining Commons and in our offices. Contact the manager listed with the job that interests you by e-mail or by phone
(listed by the job). Working on campus is a great way to make friends from all over school, to help a bit with the
bills, and to learn from the people who make UMass work.
If you have questions or concerns, visit room 820B Campus Center or room 810 Campus Center.
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Being an international student at UMASS is actually very comfortable. Both the university and the music
department provide excellent support.The first contact information that an international student should have is from
the International Office.
The website is www.umass.edu/ipo. Phone Number: 413 - 545 - 2710/2843. There, you can ask for information
regarding many different subjects and the people who works there are always very helpful.
Important: Do not miss the orientation week! That is going to be essential for you to understand the bureaucracy of
being an international student and will also help you to avoid many future problems. This week will guide you
through the process of opening a bank account, obtaining your social security card, signing your TA contract.
About your living situation: It is important to know that when you are a recently arrived international student, you
will face a couple of different problems, one of them is the lack of credit history, what which directly influence your
chances to rent a place. The best options are living in a family house or to look for one of the Apartment Complex
that will accept your I-20 form as a proof of credit. Many international students choose to live in the Boulders in
South Amherst because they accept I-20 as proof of credit and there is an in-house gym. It is also on the bus route.
Mill Valley is also a good complex, though more expensive. Pufton Village has a lot of undergraduates and a big
party life but is convenient to campus. Other apartment complexes are listed on the UMass website.
Working: It is also important to remember that international students are not allowed to work off-campus. So, if you
need a job, the best option is to go to the University website http://www.umass.edu/umfa/seo/.
Again, always ask the International Office for advice.
About filling out your taxes: When It comes to that time of the semester, the International Office will send you
several emails telling you the people that can help you filling out your taxes. Please, make sure to go ask for help,
since international students cannot file taxes online. The Isenberg School of Management offers free help with
taxes.
ADDITIONAL MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION!
Lockers: Students fill out and return a Locker Request Form from the Music Office. Locker assignments are based
on the following criteria, in order of priority: Size of instrument, Music Major, Music Minor, Tech/Lab Instrument,
other. Locker Request Forms are available during the first week of each semester.
Practice Rooms: Practice rooms are assigned during the first week of each semester, during posted hours, on a firstcome, first-served basis. A sheet for each practice room in the building will indicate available equipment (i.e. type
of piano, mirror, etc.) and restrictions (i.e. piano majors only, etc.) and the times the room is available. Practiceroom reservations are good for one semester only.
Noise Regulation: University and Departmental policies stipulate that regularly scheduled classes and ensembles
will not be disturbed by practicing in any neighboring areas (this holds especially for those areas around FAC 36).
Please check the schedule book in the Music Office if you have any question about the suitability of your practice
time and/or space. Questions should be directed to the Director of Facilities.
NON-CREDIT PRIVATE LESSONS MAY NOT BE TAUGHT IN UNIVERSITY FACILITIES
The teaching of non-credit private lessons for compensation on a free-lance basis in the Fine Arts Center is a clear
violation of State Law, which prohibits the use of public facilities for private gain. It is unfair to students who need
to practice if the number of practice rooms is diminished by illegal private teaching of non-credit lessons in the
practice rooms and classrooms.
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