Hayes School of Music Graduate Studies

Guitar Performance

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Guitar Performance Faculty

Adam Kossler
Dr. Adam Kossler
Professor of Guitar
Room 410, Broyhill Music Center
(828) 262-6463
kossleraj@appstate.edu

Mission Statement

The Master of Music in Performance degree in the Hayes School of Music is based on the pillars of performance, entrepreneurship, scholarship and pedagogy, relevance, and wellness. These fundamental pillars support musicians in developing versatility and leadership for successful and independent performance careers in the 21st century. Close mentorship between the student and the faculty is central to the program, which facilitates exceptional opportunities to excel in the art of music.

Degree Course Requirements

Course Requirements for the Master of Music in Performance Semester Hours Required (minimum): 32 to 35 - varies by concentration - see below.

Course Requirements for students who entered the program before Fall 2022 can be found here.

Required Courses
  • AMU 6xxx: Applied Music (2+2+2+2 = 8)
  • MUS 5018: Applied Area Literature – topics depend on concentration (2)
  • MUS 5120: Music Research for Performers (2)
  • MUS 5130: Seminar in Music History, Culture, and Analysis (4)
  • MUS 5140: Performers Symposium (1+1+1+1 = 4)
  • MUS 5150: Artist Portfolio (1)
  • MUS 5960: Community Engaged Performance (1)
  • MUS 5998: Master of Music in Performance Recital (1)
23
Concentration

Performance Concentration (Code: 558G)
Semester hours required for the degree (minimum): 32

  • MUS 5100: Performance Ensemble (1+1+1+1=4) 
  • MUS 5022: Applied Area Pedagogy (2)
  • 3 s.h. of music electives chosen in consultation with an advisor
9

Recital Requirements

A recital of approximately 45 minutes of music from diverse style periods will be presented while the student is enrolled in applied guitar study. Literature of difficulty equal to or greater than that of the entrance audition will be selected with approval of the applied instructor. A recital jury will be performed for the faculty two to four weeks in advance of the recital.

Assistantships and Scholarships

View general Assistantship and Scholarship information

Guitar Assistantships

The guitar assistantship includes the following responsibilities: Teaching class guitar, assisting with guitar orchestra rehearsals, Guitarfest in the Spring, and occasionally with fulfilling various needs of the Guitar Program. The award includes an $8,500 stipend per year.