Master in Winds (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 Winds (MFA) at California Institute of the Arts is for accomplished students of flute, clarinet, oboe, and bassoon. This 2-year master's program in English provides a challenging forum for students to explore advanced performance techniques and stylistic directions.

The curriculum includes major lessons, winds ensemble, winds workshop, and advanced classes in music history, literature, theory, and analysis. Students perform in various chamber ensembles and conducted large ensembles, honing skills in extended techniques, improvisation, and interpretation.

Graduates can pursue careers as Orchestral Musicians, Chamber Music Artists, Music Educators, Session Musicians, or Arts Administrators, working with symphony orchestras, music festivals, or cultural institutions.