Overview
The UC Santa Barbara Strings Program offers a full and balanced curriculum, a dedicated and internationally recognized faculty, and a superior learning experience for students interested in string study. The Department of Music requires participation in the Chamber Orchestra, Opera Theatre, and Chamber Music Program for degree candidates, and also offers opportunities for other ensemble experience through the Ensemble for Contemporary Music.
Degrees Offered
Undergraduate
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) with an emphasis in Music Studies
- Bachelor of Music (BM)
Learn more about the BA with an emphasis in Music Studies and the Bachelor of Music degrees in the Music Department, Undergraduate Program section of UC Santa Barbara's General Catalog. Find more information on applying to the undergraduate program on the Undergraduate Degrees page.
Graduate
- Master of Music (MM)
- Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
- Combined Master of Music/Doctor of Musical Arts (MM/DMA)
The MM-only time-to-degree is two years. The DMA-only time-to-degree is four to five years (for applicants who have already completed a master's degree at an accredited university). If accepted into the MM/DMA combined program, the time to complete both degrees is five years (once your coursework and qualifying exams are complete, you receive the MM). Learn more about the MM and the DMA Strings emphases in the Music Department, Graduate Program section of UCSB's General Catalog. Find more information on applying to the graduate program on the Graduate Degrees page.
Faculty
Jessica Guideri | Assistant Professor, Violin
Jonathan Moerschel | Lecturer, Viola
Jennifer Kloetzel | Professor, Cello
Undergraduate Honors String Quartet
The Undergraduate Honors String Quartet is an ensemble whose members comprise a select group of the most outstanding undergraduate string players. Membership is by audition and approval of the String Faculty and Chamber Music Coordinator. Quartet members often receive a stipend based on availability of funding on a yearly basis.
Young Artists String Quartet and Piano Quartet Graduate Program
In addition, the program has two scholarship ensembles, the Young Artists String Quartet and the Young Artists Piano Quartet, which perform on campus and throughout Southern California. There is also a variety of opportunities for students to perform in several professional ensembles in the Santa Barbara community.