If you are an accomplished pianist with curiosity and an open mind to delve into the study of piano pedagogy to further performance and teaching aspirations, then the Frost School of Music is the place for you. The Master of Music in Keyboard Performance and Pedagogy at the Frost School of Music consists of 30 credit hours of graduate study beyond the Bachelor of Music degree in piano-related degrees, such as solo performance, pedagogy, or collaborative piano. This degree program prepares students for advanced teaching as independent studio teachers or for continued doctoral-level study in related disciplines. Consistent with our school-wide belief in the value of “experiential” learning, our graduate curriculum in Keyboard Performance and Pedagogy (KPED) is uniquely designed to integrate theoretical studies with performance to the maximum extent possible. All KPED students have the opportunity to request performance study with any one of our outstanding piano faculty members. Furthermore, our flexible curriculum affords a customized program of pedagogical study based on the background and interests of each student. Our innovative curriculum includes both traditional and progressive offerings. Our traditional pedagogy offerings cover topics such as historical and modern private teaching methodologies, didactic repertoire and sequencing, group piano teaching, injury prevention, and peak performance strategies. To help students acquire and maintain a competitive edge, our curriculum also addresses relevant knowledge in other disciplines, such as the latest findings of the cognitive process or sports psychology, while providing every opportunity possible to guide students through the process of professional preparation. A wide variety of options exist for hands-on teaching and learning, and our Preparatory Division provides the platform for those interested in a teaching internship for young students. Research ability is deemed an essential skill for graduate-level study. Students have the opportunity to hone their skills in critical thinking and independent research both through various courses in addition to the Master’s Thesis. The competitive reality of the market for performers and teachers has never been more demanding. We are proud that many of our piano students (both KPED and MKP) have gone on to DMA studies, won awards at national and international piano competitions, or were invited to publish in recognized periodicals or present at conferences.
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For more information about the program, please contact: Naoko Takao, DMA For admission information and financial support, please click here.
Program Director, Keyboard Performance and Pedagogy
n.takao@miami.edu