Overview

The Music - Performance Concentration at Stanford University offers students a unique opportunity to integrate high-level artistic practice with a broad liberal arts education. This specialised pathway is designed for performers who wish to achieve professional excellence while engaging with the diverse academic resources of a premier global institution.

Students enrolled in this programme benefit from an environment that encourages both technical mastery and intellectual curiosity. The curriculum is structured to support individual artistic growth through intensive study, ensuring that graduates are prepared for the complexities of the modern musical landscape. By fostering a deep understanding of musical theory and history alongside practical application, the university ensures a well-rounded educational experience.

Why Music - Performance Concentration at Stanford University?

Choosing to study this concentration means joining a vibrant community of artists and thinkers at one of the world's most prestigious universities. The institution is globally recognised for its commitment to excellence across all disciplines, providing a stimulating backdrop for musical exploration. Students benefit from a unique interdisciplinary approach that allows them to connect their musical studies with other fields of interest.

The university's location and reputation facilitate numerous partnerships with leading arts organisations and professional musicians. These connections often lead to masterclasses, workshops, and guest lectures that enrich the standard curriculum. Additionally, the focus on individual development ensures that each performer can tailor their journey to meet their specific career goals and artistic aspirations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22577 per semester
National fee: USD 22577 per semester
Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a robust foundation in both the practical and theoretical aspects of music. Modules may include:

Music Theory
Music History
Composition
Ethnomusicology
Analysis
Performance Practice
Chamber Music
Orchestral Studies
Conducting
Electronic Music

Careers with Music - Performance Concentration

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue a variety of professional paths within the global music industry. Many alumni find success as soloists, orchestral musicians, or members of professional chamber ensembles. The rigorous training provided by the university also prepares students for roles in arts administration, music production, and education.

Beyond direct performance roles, the analytical and communicative skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors such as media, publishing, and cultural consultancy. Many students also choose to continue their studies at the postgraduate level, attending leading conservatoires or research institutions worldwide to further refine their expertise and specialisation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Thoroughbass

Diction for Singers

German Art Song Interpretation

French Art Song Interpretation

Singing for Musicals

Editing and Performing Early Music

Topics in Opera Stagecraft

Research in Performance Practices

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Music Music Performance View 2679 other Bachelors in Music in United States

Join for free or log in to access our complete career info list.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Coalition Application or Common Application
$90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request
ACT or SAT (Writing/Essay not required) (refer to testing for score reporting policies)
School Report and counselor letter of recommendation
Official transcript(s)
Letters of recommendation from two teachers
Midyear transcript (by February 15)

Standardized testing is one of the application requirements that can highlight academic preparedness. There are no minimum test scores required to be admitted to Stanford, and there is no score that guarantees admission. At Stanford, we review applications holistically, meaning every component of the application is valuable to us as we get to know each student.
Arts Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Out-of-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year

Additional Details

Tuition per quarter. Students are typically enrolled in classes for three quarters: autumn, winter, spring.

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Get Visa Support

Get personalized guidance from a certified VFS Global advisor and save 20% through Studyportals.

Avoid common visa mistakes and delays
Know exactly what documents you need
Get a clear checklist tailored to your situation

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Music - Performance Concentration.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About