Earn Your Master’s in Collaborative Piano
Building on your skill as a classical pianist, a master of music in collaborative piano will grow your musical talent and help you develop highly specialized skills to accompany and coach classical vocal performances in different settings. You’ll learn essential skills in technique, lyric diction, and musicianship (as related to vocal repertoire), and gain practical experience through solo and ensemble work. Graduates will be prepared for coaching and performance careers in a variety of musical, educational, or nonprofit settings.
Performance-Oriented Learning
Three survey courses will build your knowledge and repertoire in art song, opera, oratorio, cantata, and mass. You’ll study the evolution and history of each genre and then receive intensive coaching from faculty as you perform the repertoire, advancing your training as a collaborative pianist.
MMCP Coursework
North Park’s MMCP curriculum offers applied piano, masterclasses, survey courses, and a practicum that gives you valuable work experience as an accompanist in an opera or choral setting. An elective career seminar option focuses on practical strategies for establishing your career—from resume building to setting up your own studio.
Practical Experience
Your academic training will include work as an accompanist for North Park’s University Choir, Women’s Chorale, Chamber Singers, or Opera. Under the supervision of professional faculty and conductors, you’ll serve in the critical role of vocal coach in rehearsals and performances. You’ll be able to showcase your piano skills, knowledge of vocal repertoire, and collaborative artistry through both solo and ensemble performances.
Faculty Spotlight:
Dr. Terree Shofner-Emrich, collaborative piano program director, is a musician who performs with and works as a vocal coach for several of Chicago’s renowned musical institutions, including Music of the Baroque, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Symphony Chorus.
Music Events
North Park’s School of Music offers a wide range of performances and special events that you can attend throughout the year, including professional musicians conducting masterclasses, choral and ensemble concerts, and the annual Bach Week Festival.
Admission and Audition Requirements
MMCP candidates must hold an undergraduate degree and complete an audition and interview for acceptance into the program.