World Music Performance Program
BFA, MFA

Extending the global reach of the School of Music and all of its programs, the World Music Performance Program allows students to study and learn the music and dance practices of different world cultures—as well as alternate ways of learning music. The program encompasses formal studies in African music and dance, Balinese and Javanese music and dance, and North Indian music. Since the majority of the faculty members in this program are master musicians from Africa, Indonesia and India, students have the opportunity to receive cultural, language and social insights in addition to superb musical training. Instruction is delivered primarily in the oral tradition, and covers individual instruments and ensemble situations. Students and faculty frequently play side by side, rehearsing and performing together at venues both on and off campus. 

Studies in the main areas of concentration are augmented by work in other areas such as Persian and Latin percussion and Balkan music. The program also features special performances and workshops with visiting artists from many parts of the world, including Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Tibet, Tuva and the Far East.

At the MFA level, the World Music Performance Program offers three areas of specialization:

World Music Performance Specialization in
African Music and Dance
MFA level only
This specialization focuses on music and dance from the Ewe people of Ghana, with visiting artists covering repertoire from other African cultures. Since music and dance are inseparable in most of West Africa, most classes in this specialization include both disciplines. The coursework also features ethnology, theory, transcription and analysis.

World Music Performance Specialization in

Balinese and Javanese Music and Dance

MFA level only
This specialization explores the music and dance of both Bali and Java and features a full instrument collection. It offers courses in Balinese gamelan (orchestra), Javanese gamelan, gadon (small orchestra), gender wayang (metallophone quartet), male and female dances and, periodically, classes in kecak (monkey chant) and gong suling (flute ensemble). In both Javanese and Balinese areas, repertoire encompasses an extensive range of traditional and contemporary works.

World Music Performance Specialization in

North Indian Music

MFA level only

The Specialization in North Indian Music delves into the rich Hindustani classical music tradition. Rooted in small ensembles, this music typically features a vocal soloist or a sitar, sarod or flute player who is accompanied by tabla (hand drums) and tambura (a drone instrument). The curriculum helps students to learn advanced aural, rhythmic and improvisational skills and includes studies of North Indian theory and sargam.