Master of Music in opera

The Master of Music degree in opera requires a minimum of thirty-two graduate credits (g.c.). The program typically takes two years to complete, but a student may stay an optional third year at the discretion of the dean of vocal studies and the Curtis president. Each student receives at least two vocal coaching sessions per week. A Bachelor of Music degree or equivalent is required for degree candidacy. In the last semester, the dean of vocal studies, dean, and the president will evaluate each student's progress and research course.

Incoming students will be counseled by the department faculty, who will suggest ways of remedying any weakness in theoretical, aural, or language skills. The student will make voice teacher selection with the dean's approval of vocal studies and the president. The emphasis in the opera program is on performing and developing performance skills. Typically the Curtis Opera Theatre performs three productions each year with the Curtis Symphony Orchestra or Curtis Chamber Orchestra.

For nearly a century, Curtis has provided each member of its small student body with an unparalleled education alongside musical peers, distinguished by a “learn by doing” philosophy and personalized attention from a faculty that includes a high proportion of actively performing musicians. To ensure that admissions are based solely on the artistic promise, Curtis makes an investment in each admitted student to pay no tuition for their studies.

Curtis students hone their craft through more than 200 orchestra, opera, and solo and chamber music offerings and programs that bring arts access and education to the community. This real-world training allows these extraordinary young musicians to join the front rank of performers, composers, conductors, and musical leaders, making a profound impact on music onstage and in their communities.