It is advisable to apply early! The School of Music application deadline is December 1, but each professor can exercise flexibility and adjust that date as needed on a case by case basis. If the deadline is approaching or has even passed, please proceed by contacting Dr. Heidel directly for information. Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum of two years of teaching or equivalent professional experience. Interested students should follow the application process as outlined through the School of Music. In addition to submitting a formal application through the School of Music, follow these steps:
- As early as possible, establish communication with Dr. Mark Heidel, Director of Bands, to express your interest in the graduate band conducting program. Submit directly to Dr. Heidel a (1) current CV, (2) current repertoire list of wind band works studied and conducted in performance, and (3) video link to recent conducting performances (frontal view) in a concert and/or rehearsal setting.
- After a review of the application and supporting materials, a select number of candidates will be invited to campus for an audition and interview, which usually occurs in the late fall or early spring. The audition consists of (1) a rehearsal with the Symphony Band on a work assigned by Dr. Heidel, (2) interviews with Dr. Mark Heidel and Dr. Eric W. Bush, Associate Director of Bands and Director of the Hawkeye Marching Band, (3) formal and interpretive analysis of a work to be assigned by Dr. Heidel prior to the on-campus interview, and (4) an individual conducting lesson with Dr. Heidel. The on-campus interview enables candidates to personally interact with our faculty and students, and experience the University of Iowa and Iowa City community. As part of the audition, there will be opportunities to meet and visit with current graduate wind conducting majors.
Students who complete an MA in Wind Conducting at Iowa, and who are qualified for doctoral work, may be invited to apply for the DMA degree program. In this case, it is possible that a student can complete the course requirements for the DMA in Wind Conducting in two semesters. Acceptance into the DMA program is contingent upon performance in the MA program as well as background.
The graduate conducting program at Iowa is strong, and space is limited. There are four band teaching assistantships, and these are awarded on a competitive basis. The citizens of Iowa City and Coralville along with the students and faculty at the University of Iowa are friendly and welcoming, making for a positive living and educational environment. Feel free to contact Dr. Mark Heidel, Director of Bands, for additional information about the graduate program in band conducting or visit the School of Music web site.