Master of Music
Instrumental Performance
Take the Stage. Shape the Future.
Is This Program for Me?
The Master of Music in Instrumental Performance is designed for musicians who want to continue their artistic and professional development. Students build on previous training through lessons, ensemble participation and advanced coursework. The program supports growth as a performer while preparing graduates for future opportunities in music.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Want to develop your instrumental performance skills
- Aspire to perform in concert, chamber or ensemble settings
- Enjoy solo and ensemble performance experiences
- Value mentorship from experienced faculty
- Plan to pursue advanced study in music
- Want to continue growing as a musician and artist
What Will I Learn?
Students strengthen their technical skills, musical understanding and stage presence through lessons, rehearsals and study. Coursework and applied instruction help students grow as performers while expanding their knowledge of instrumental literature. Throughout the program, students prepare for a range of musical settings and future career paths.
You Will Learn
- Perform instrumental literature with technical control and musical maturity
- Interpret and communicate musical ideas across a range of styles and periods
- Strengthen performance skills through focused study and applied instruction
- Apply music theory and music history to performance
- Analyze and prepare instrumental repertoire
- Work effectively with conductors, accompanists and fellow performers
- Prepare recitals, auditions and public performances
- Demonstrate confidence in recitals, auditions and public performances
What Makes Us Different?
Samford's graduate instrumental performance program combines advanced musical training with meaningful performance experiences and personal faculty support. Students develop as performers while studying in a collaborative and encouraging environment.
Performance-Focused Training
Students receive individual instruction and perform regularly throughout the program. These experiences help strengthen technical skill, musical expression and stage confidence.
Ensemble and Collaborative Experiences
Instrumental graduate students participate in ensembles, chamber groups and collaborative performances. These opportunities develop versatility and encourage meaningful artistic growth.
Faculty Mentorship
Students work closely with faculty mentors who provide guidance in performance, artistic development and career preparation. Individual attention helps students pursue their goals with clarity and purpose.
A Supportive Musical Community
Students learn alongside talented peers who share a commitment to musical excellence. This environment encourages collaboration, professional growth and lifelong connections.
Career Preparation
The Master of Music in Instrumental Performance equips students with the musical skills, performance experience and professional preparation needed for careers in music. Graduates leave the program with advanced training and a stronger foundation for future opportunities.
Prepare to Succeed
- Compete in auditions at the regional and national levels
- Perform as soloists and ensemble musicians
- Continue study in doctoral and other advanced music programs
- Teach private lessons or work in music education settings
- Build professional portfolios of performance experience
- Pursue opportunities in performance and related areas of music
Career Opportunities
- Professional performer
- Studio instructor
- Collaborative musician
- Chamber musician
- Arts educator
- Private lesson instructor
- Doctoral student in music performance
Performance & Professional Experiences
Students gain extensive performance experience through ensembles, recitals and collaborative projects. Regular public performances help students strengthen their skills while building confidence and artistic maturity.
Many students perform in a variety of musical settings during their time at Samford. These opportunities broaden performance experience and help students adapt to different artistic and professional expectations.
Faculty mentors and guest artists provide valuable insight throughout the program. Their guidance helps students refine their craft and prepare for the next stage of their careers.
