How to Be Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 27, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) is a terminal degree for musicians, composers, and music educators. Earning a DMA requires extensive study and research in a chosen field of music, as well as a final project or dissertation. Those who complete a DMA may find themselves in high demand due to the level of expertise they have achieved.

With their advanced knowledge, those with a DMA can pursue a variety of career paths, including teaching music at the college level, performing as a solo artist, or conducting an ensemble. the DMA is often seen as a prerequisite for working in higher-level positions with orchestras, opera companies, and other professional music organizations. The level of scholarly achievement required to obtain a DMA can also be beneficial for those looking to pursue research-related projects or further their studies in music theory or composition.

Steps How to Become

Earn a bachelor's degree in music. The first step to becoming a Doctor of Musical Arts is to earn a bachelor's degree in music. This degree should include courses in music theory, music history, and performance.
Perform professionally. It is important to gain professional experience as a musician before pursuing a DMA. This could include performing in professional orchestras, teaching private music lessons, or composing and arranging music for events or productions.
Obtain a master's degree. Earning a master's degree in music is typically a requirement for entry into a DMA program. During this program, students will refine their skills in composition, music theory, and performance.
Take the GRE. Most DMA programs require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The test is designed to measure critical thinking, analytical writing, and verbal reasoning skills.
Apply to a DMA program. After meeting the admission requirements of the school, students can apply to a DMA program. The application process includes submitting transcripts and letters of recommendation, completing an essay, and attending an interview.
Complete a doctoral dissertation. As part of their studies, DMA students must complete a doctoral dissertation. This is an original research project that makes an original contribution to the field of music.
Complete the program. Once all coursework and research requirements have been met, students must pass an oral exam in order to graduate from the program. Upon completion, students will be awarded the Doctor of Musical Arts degree.

A Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree is a terminal degree in music which requires both advanced skills and competency. It requires extensive research, writing, and performing of music, as well as the completion of a dissertation. The degree takes an average of four to six years to complete, depending on the individual's prior academic and professional experience.

Those with a DMA have the ability to teach at the collegiate level, create and perform music, and compose in a variety of styles. They also often have opportunities to work in the music industry, as well as for non-profits, churches, and other organizations. Earning a DMA provides a comprehensive knowledge of music theory, history, and performance that can open up exciting and rewarding career options.

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Job Description

Music Professor/Instructor: Teach music history, theory, musicianship, ear training, applied lessons, and other music subjects at the college/university level.
Private Music Teacher: Provide private instruction to students of all ages on a variety of instruments.
Music Therapist: Use music to aid in the psychological, physical, cognitive, and social functioning of individuals with disabilities or illnesses.
Composer/Arranger: Create original musical compositions or arrange existing pieces for various instruments and/or vocalists.
Conductor: Lead orchestras, choirs, and other ensembles in performances of musical works.
Church Music Director: Lead church choirs and congregational singing in services and special events.
Music Director/Producer: Oversee the production of musical recordings, live performances, and other music-related projects.
Artist Manager: Represent musical artists, book gigs, negotiate contracts, and work to promote the artists career.
Music Copyist: Transcribe musical works from recordings or manuscripts into a readable format for performance or study.
Music Librarian: Manage music collections in libraries or other institutions, assisting patrons and maintaining accurate records.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Demonstrate advanced knowledge of music theory, history, and performance technique.
Develop original creative work in composition and performance.
Critically analyze and interpret musical works from diverse styles and eras.
Communicate effectively with peers, students, and the broader community.
Utilize technology to advance musical creativity, performance, and pedagogy.
Develop advanced teaching and research skills in the field of music.
Demonstrate an ability to integrate musical elements of various styles into an original artistic statement.
Demonstrate leadership in the field of music, both within and beyond the academic setting.

The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) is an advanced degree that requires highly-developed skills in music performance, composition, conducting, and research. Earning a DMA requires great dedication and hard work, with extensive knowledge and practice in each of these areas. An individual must possess both creative and technical abilities in music, as well as be able to work with a variety of different collaborators.

they must have the ability to think critically and solve complex problems. Having a strong work ethic and the ability to stay focused and organized are also essential for success in the program. With all of these skills, a DMA candidate can achieve the highest levels of artistic excellence and become a leader in the field of music.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a degree in musical arts?
What do you believe makes you well-suited for a career in music?
How have you demonstrated your commitment to musical excellence?
What experience do you have with teaching music to students?
How do you manage your time effectively when working on complex musical projects?
What strategies do you use to stay current with new trends in the music industry?
What techniques have you used to increase your productivity while composing music?
How would you handle teaching a difficult student who is struggling to learn music?
Describe a creative approach you have taken to developing a new composition.
What methods have you found to be successful in engaging audiences with your music performances?

Common Tools in Industry

Music Production Software. allows users to create, edit, and mix music (eg: Ableton Live).
Digital Audio Workstations (DAW). used to record and edit audio (eg: Pro Tools).
MIDI Sequencers. used to program and sequence music (eg: Logic Pro X).
Notation Software. used to create music notation (eg: Sibelius).
Recording Equipment. used to capture audio (eg: microphones and mixers).
Music Performance Software. used to perform or compose music live (eg: Native Instruments Maschine).
Audio Effects Plugins. used to enhance or alter audio (eg: Waves plugins).
Music Analysis Software. used to analyze music for various purposes (eg: Humdrum Toolkit).
Music Visualization Software. used to create visual representations of music (eg: TouchDesigner).
Music Education Apps. used to learn and practice music (eg: Yousician).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Choral Directors Association (ACDA)
American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP)
National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS)
National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
College Music Society (CMS)
International Society for Contemporary Music (ISCM)
International Association for Jazz Education (IAJE)
Music Educators National Conference (MENC)
Percussive Arts Society (PAS)
Society for Music Theory (SMT)

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Common Important Terms

Music Theory. The study of the principles and elements of music composition, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and form.
Music Composition. The process of creating a musical work by combining elements of harmony, melody, rhythm, and form.
Instrumentation. The practice of selecting and combining instruments to create a sound.
Orchestration. The practice of writing and arranging music for a large ensemble such as an orchestra.
Conducting. The art of directing an orchestra or choir through gesture and verbal commands.
Music Technology. The use of technology to create, record, and manipulate music.
Musical Analysis. The process of studying a composition in order to gain insight into its structure and meaning.
Music History. The study of the evolution of music from its earliest forms to the present day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree?

The Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree is a professional degree designed to prepare musicians for careers as performers, teachers, scholars and composers.

What is the minimum number of years of study required to receive a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree?

Typically, it takes at least three years of full-time study to complete the requirements for a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree.

What types of courses are typically required to obtain a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree?

Requirements for a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree typically include courses in performance practice, music theory, music history, music composition, music technology, and pedagogy.

What type of final project is required to obtain a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree?

To obtain a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree, students must complete a final project such as a dissertation, recital, or composition portfolio.

What job opportunities are available with a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree?

With a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree, graduates can pursue careers as university professors, professional performers, music directors, or composers.