Course Overview

The Music programs at Rice University, offered through the Shepherd School of Music, include Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Music (BMus), Master of Music (MMus), and Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA). These programs are designed to provide rigorous training in performance, composition, music history, and theory, catering to students aiming for professional careers in music or advanced academic pursuits. A distinctive feature is the personalized instruction from world-class faculty and access to a vibrant musical community in Houston.

Career Prospects

Graduates from these programs are well-prepared for diverse roles in the music industry, including performance, education, composition, and arts administration. Many alumni perform with leading orchestras, teach at prestigious institutions, or contribute to music scholarship.

Key Faculty and Staff

Notable faculty include internationally recognized musicians and scholars such as Larry Rachleff (conducting), Jon Kimura Parker (piano), and Robert Yekovich (Dean of the Shepherd School of Music), who bring extensive professional experience to their teaching.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities at the Shepherd School of Music, including the Alice Pratt Brown Hall with its world-class performance spaces. The school also maintains partnerships with the Houston Symphony and other local cultural organizations, offering students professional performance opportunities.