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Working alongside and performing with exceptional musicians is a key aspect of the conducting program at Northwestern.
Students undertake challenging academic studies, join biweekly seminars led by their primary instructors, and get chances to direct the university's premier musical groups. The Bienen School officially supports 16 performing ensembles.
Being near downtown Chicago provides abundant musical enrichment for both musicians and conductors. Students can experience performances by renowned institutions like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera of Chicago, along with events at Ravinia Festival and Millennium Park. Numerous other cultural institutions in the region present further possibilities.
The Chicago area is home to various community, regional, and professional orchestras. These groups enable conducting students to acquire professional skills during their studies at Bienen School of Music, which proves crucial for both their education and building connections for future career opportunities.
Admitted students must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a comparable non-U.S. degree from a regionally accredited institution.
TOEFL or IELTS test scores are required of most international applicants.