Master in Brass (MFA)

California Institute of the Arts, located near Valencia in Southern California, is a leading institution for creative education founded with a legacy of innovation in the arts. CalArts encourages experimental practice across disciplines including art, film, music, theater, dance, and animation, and offers a compact, studio-focused learning environment where students develop original work under the mentorship of practicing artists and industry professionals.

The institute promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, supporting individual artistic development with cutting-edge studios, performance spaces, and digital labs. Small class sizes and intensive critique-based courses help students refine their voices and build professional portfolios, while visiting artists, festivals, and partnerships provide exposure to the wider creative industry. Academic advising, portfolio coaching, and career development services support transitions to festivals, galleries, studios, and commercial roles.

International students find a welcoming community and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, residencies, and public exhibitions that elevate their practice. CalArts fosters a culture of experimentation, critical inquiry, and professional networking, making it a strong choice for creative learners who seek rigorous mentorship, cross-disciplinary exploration, and direct engagement with the contemporary arts scene in the United States.

The Master in Brass program at California Institute of the Arts is a 2-year Master's degree for advanced students of trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba. This program helps students refine their skills and develop their individual artistic profiles. Students learn from experienced faculty and perform in various ensembles.

The curriculum includes major lessons, brass ensemble, brass workshop, and advanced classes in music history, literature, theory, and analysis. Students also hone their skills in extended techniques, improvisation, and interpretation through specialized groups covering Baroque, jazz, electronic, improvisational, and experimental music. Additionally, students take classes in pedagogy and career design to prepare for the professional world.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Orchestra Musicians, Chamber Musicians, Music Educators, Studio Musicians, or Arts Administrators. They can work with renowned orchestras, jazz bands, or as freelance musicians. With their advanced skills and knowledge, they can also teach music at colleges or universities, or work in music production and management.