MM: Collaborative Piano

Master of Music: Collaborative Piano Concentration

Program Director: Joel Harder, jharder@binghamton.edu

PLEASE NOTE:  There will be no auditions for admission to the MM Collaborative PIano program in Fall 2024.  The Collaborative Piano program will hold auditions in Spring 2025 for admission to the program in Fall 2025.  

Binghamton University’s program in Collaborative Piano is tailored to those who are interested in building practical skills in all types of collaboration (vocal, instrumental, large ensemble) while continuing to refine interpretive and technical skills at the keyboard. Students in the program will have access to numerous opportunities within the music department and with the thriving liberal arts community on campus. In addition, BU has cultivated a highly unique partnership with Tri-Cities Opera, in which collaborative pianists have the chance to work with a distinguished opera organization as part of their education, giving them hands-on professional experience in their field.

Program Highlights

  • Individual instruction and applied lessons

  • Weekly Performance Seminar classes with vocalists, tailored to building repertoire and gaining experience in collaboration with singers, both on and off stage

  • Diction for singers, vocal coaching techniques

  • Lesson accompaniment for voice, winds, brass and strings

  • Participation in Chamber Music ensembles

  • Close partnership with Tri-Cities Opera, including the possibility of interning as rehearsal pianist on professional shows with a world-renowned staff

  • State-of-the-art recording facilities

  • Collaborative opportunities range from premiering new music from composers in the pioneering composition department, to rehearsing and performing with various choral societies, to projects with Theatre, Dance & Cinema Departments

  • Graduate Assistantships available

  • Very affordable tuition fees

Program Overview

  • Minimum 12 credits in applied collaborative piano studies
  • Minimum 4 credits in electives (ensembles and/or other courses)
  • 12 credits in Music History, Research, and Analysis courses
  • MM Thesis Recital

Admissions Requirements

Please go to the Apply page for complete information regarding admissions, auditions, and interviews.

Application Deadline

The MM program has a rolling admission and will accept applications at any time.  If you wish to be fully considered for funding in the 2024-2025 year, you must submit your application by February 1, 2024.