The Master of Music program at Northern Arizona University provides budding performing and creative artists and scholars a solid foundation for careers as teachers, conductors, and performers or for doctoral-level work. The program is directed towards two tracks: one for performing artists specializing in orchestra, band, or choral conducting; voice or instrumental performance; or piano accompanying; and the other for those interested in musicology/ethnomusicology, music theory, composition, or music teaching.

The greatest benefit from graduate study in the NAU School of Music is the high level of individual attention each student receives. Our faculty assist students in maximizing their potential for career and academic success. The close connection between graduate students and the faculty is a hallmark of our program.

Maria Lopez, MM Vocal Performance, working with Judith Cloud, coordinator of voice; onstage in Cosi fan tutte; and in rehearsal with Nando Schellen, director of the NAU Opera

Our outstanding faculty include:

Dr. Edith Copley, director of choral studies, who has received numerous awards for her teaching and conducting in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

Dr. Judith Cloud, coordinator of voice, an accomplished mezzo-soprano and composer who has performed with the Aspen Music Festival Orchestra, the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, the Jacksonville Symphony, and the Rome Festival Orchestra among many others.

Dr. Timothy Smith, professor of music theory, whose research interests include music theory pedagogy and the music of J.S. Bach. In 2003, he received MERLOT’s Editor’s Choice Award for The Fugues of the Well-Tempered Clavier.

Dr. Nicholas Ross, director of orchestras, who has served as music director for the Hunter Symphony in New York City and the Onondaga Civic Symphony. He has conducted in China and throughout the U.S. and served as assistant conductor of the Glimmerglass Opera Company for three years. In addition to conducting, Dr. Ross is an accomplished violinist.

Nathan Lambert, MM Instrumental Conducting, rehearses members of the NAU Symphony Orchestra

Graduate students enjoy innumerable opportunities to showcase their skills both on campus and within the Flagstaff community. The School of Music fosters close collaborations with the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra and the Children’s Chorale of Flagstaff, along with other local performing organizations. Student also may participate in School of Music ensembles including three concert bands, seven choirs, opera, and two orchestras, as well as a number of instrumental chamber ensembles. The NAU Community Music and Dance Academy provides graduate students a venue to hone their teaching skills.


Studying in the Master of Music program at Northern Arizona University is a wonderful way to enhance one’s musicianship and build toward a career in music.

Krista Rodin, Professor, School of Music