Can you provide an overview of the Master of Music Leadership programme and how it differentiates itself from traditional music programmes ?
The YST Master of Music Leadership ( MMusL ) programme is targeted at professionals who are currently seeking to expand their impact within the music landscape . While there are existing programmes for further training in say , performance or conducting , we saw a gap in terms of pathways for practitioners taking their next steps as leaders .
What does it take to be a 21st century musician and to lead positive change in the scene ? Today ’ s music leaders need to be entrepreneurial and innovative ; to keep pace with rapid technological developments ; to be articulate and adept in collaborating across disciplines . It ’ s not just about making music well ; it ’ s about having the critical thinking and vision to shape the future of the industry . That ’ s what the MMusL seeks to nurture .
The programme aims to blend artistic excellence with strategic leadership skills . Could you elaborate on how this combination is achieved within the curriculum ?
The curriculum combines music-focused courses in pedagogy , conducting and production with broader courses on leadership , business , critical thinking , research and contextual studies . This distinctive mix of topics equips our students to be adept across numerous settings , from the stage to the boardroom and research podium .
How do you integrate realworld experiences and industry partnerships into the programme to enhance students ’ learning journey ?
First of all , our MMusL students are already actively engaged in the industry as instrumentalists , educators , ensemble directors , journalists , organisation leaders and more . Hence , the programme is designed to integrate closely with their career pursuits , such as through reflective portfolios , capstone projects , self-directed learning and individual mentoring . We want students to be able to connect their learning in the MMusL with their ongoing professional missions .
In addition , students gain access to YST ’ s extensive local and international network that spans the arts , education , community and other sectors . Coupled with YST ’ s world-class faculty and rich year-round calendar of projects and events , opportunities abound for students to enrich their learning journey .
What career paths do graduates of the Master of Music Leadership programme typically pursue ? How do they leverage their artistic and leadership skills across various sectors ?
The MMusL programme has welcomed a diverse range of professionals , including ethnic instrumentalists , band and ensemble directors , MOE teachers , international music graduates , music journalists , and music entrepreneurs . These endeavours all call for artistry – not only in terms of music-making , but also in terms of being able to communicate , collaborate , envision , lead and inspire .
How do you see the role of creative leaders evolving in the coming years , and how does the programme adapt to these changes ?
Throughout time , there will always be developments in technologies , methods , styles and tastes . But the role of the creative leader is arguably constant : to envision ever-new futures that lie beyond what we currently know , and to embrace and lead evolution . Hence , the MMusL programme empowers students with vital crossfunctional skillsets , so that they can not only keep abreast of change , but shape it .
Can you highlight any success stories or notable achievements of your programme ’ s alumni demonstrating its effectiveness in cultivating music leaders ?
The MMusL is a very new programme and we don ’ t yet have alumni , but our current students are established practitioners across a range of areas . These include :
President of the Band Directors ’ Association of Singapore , and leaders of numerous nonprofit organisations such as Ventus Music Ltd , Music360 , Singpop Music Limited ;
• Handbell ensemble director ;
• Orchestra musician ;
• Educator ;
• Journalist .
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