Choral Conducting at the UMKC Conservatory

Inspiring the Future of Choral Artistry

The Choral Conducting Program at UMKC is built on a legacy of excellence, preparing leaders who bring music to life in schools, universities, community choirs, and professional ensembles around the world. Our graduates are known not only for their artistry and scholarship, but also for their ability to create meaningful, connected choral experiences that enrich lives.

At UMKC, choral conductors are nurtured as artists, teachers, and leaders, guiding singers with clarity, inspiring creativity, and cultivating thriving choral communities

Program Highlights

  • Individualized Mentorship: Weekly one-on-one lessons with choral faculty who tailor instruction to your artistic and career goals.
  • Extensive Podium Experience: Consistent conducting and rehearsal opportunities with Conservatory ensembles such as Conservatory Singers, Conservatory Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Choral Union, developing both gesture and rehearsal craft.
  • Collaborative Community: A supportive network of conductors and singers, with opportunities to learn alongside peers in both orchestral and wind conducting.
  • Interdisciplinary Learning: Collaboration across the Conservatory including opportunities to work with composers, instrumentalists, and other artists to broaden your perspective and expand your skill set.
  • Professional Pathways: Opportunities to connect with Kansas City’s vibrant arts scene, including nationally acclaimed organizations like the Kansas City Symphony and the Kansas City Chorale.
  • Guidance for Growth: Faculty who are invested in your success, offering practical training in score study, rehearsal pedagogy, and career preparation.
  • Graduate Assistantships:
    • Full tuition waiver
    • Stipend support
    • Meaningful and regular podium and rehearsal opportunities with Conservatory ensembles

Graduate Degrees in Choral Conducting and Music Education

UMKC Conservatory Admissions – https://conservatory.umkc.edu/admissions

Master of Music in Choral Conducting

Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting

Master of Music Education (3 Summers Only)

Ph.D. in Music Education

Graduate Certificate – Performing Arts Management

UMKC Conservatory Undergraduate Degrees

Degree-Specific Audition Requirements – https://conservatory.umkc.edu/admissions/program-specific-admission-requirements/

Bachelor of Music Education (BME)

Bachelor of Music: Vocal Performance

Bachelor of Arts: Music Therapy

Bachelor of Arts: Music

Bachelor of Music: Music Composition

Bachelor of Music: Music Performance-Piano

Bachelor of Music: Music Performance-Wind, Strings, Percussion

Bachelor of Music: Music Theory

Bachelor of Music: Jazz Studies

Arts Entrepreneurship Undergraduate Certificate