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HNU’s programs provide:

• An individually-tailored course of study
• Supportive faculty who are renowned performers and teachers
• Student teaching under the direction of master teachers
• Musicianship training with nationally recognized Kodály specialists
• A variety of performance opportunities within the culturally diverse SF Bay Area

The graduate music programs at Holy Names provide teacher preparation in three related areas: music education with Kodály emphasis, piano pedagogy and vocal pedagogy. The programs are unique in that they share a core curriculum of musicianship, music literature, conducting, and an introduction of music pedagogy. Students receive program-specific training in pedagogical methods and materials, as well as supervised teaching experience during the academic year. Holy Names students also experience a significant portion of related programs: all sing, play the piano and participate together in a variety of ensembles. Depending on the program, the course of study may include private lessons, recitals, a thesis or lecture-demonstration of teaching, or a final oral comprehensive examination.

Our programs are designed to prepare students to teach in a variety of settings--public and private schools, school, church and community choirs, and in private studios. Graduate faculty are nationally and internationally recognized, and often include guest teachers from the Liszt Academy in Hungary. Small class sizes ensure that students receive the personal attention essential for their success. Graduates of our programs provide leadership in the field of music education throughout the United States and abroad.