Master of Fine Arts in Piano Technology Applicants
Our two-year program in piano technology emphasizes the collaborative relationship between the concert artist and piano technician. Instruction, hands-on learning, mentoring, and regular projects further equip students for work with the instrument as well as the musician.
Who Should Apply
Oberlin’s Piano Technology program is effective for students at any stage in the profession. We welcome applications from those with no previous experience, those with a background in music seeking to enter the profession, and those with a background in piano technology, either as working technicians or graduates of other programs and apprenticeships in the U.S. or abroad.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Application for Admission
Select the link below to access the Application Management portal. Follow the instructions on how to create an account to start a new application. Be sure to select the appropriate program before creating your application.
Official deadline to apply is June 1, 2025, however applications will be accepted until positions are filled.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
The conservatory has an application fee of $100 (application fee is non-refundable).
After you submit the Application for Admission, you will be directed to your Applicant Portal. This portal contains a link that should be used to submit your application fee. No applicant will be considered without receipt of the application fee. In addition to fee payment, the Applicant Portal can be used to track the receipt of required materials (detailed below).
Step 3: Submit Transcripts, Recommendations, and Supplemental Materials
A bachelor's degree is required. Students should provide transcripts from post-secondary institutions attended. Additionally, students must submit a personal statement of interest (detailed on the application), résumé, and two letters of recommendation. Students with a background in musical performance are preferred, and preference will be given to students with a bachelor’s degree or certificate in piano technology from an accredited artisan school.
Step 4: Interview
All applicants take part in an interview with John Cavanaugh, executive director of keyboard technology, either in person or via Zoom. Because this is a profession that attracts students from a large variety of backgrounds, the interview segment of the application is extremely important. Any professional musical training, work experience of any kind, music lessons, interest in mechanics and sound, interest and/or display of woodworking skills, and the ability to work harmoniously with others should be mentioned in the interview.
International students will have an informal assessment of their conversational English proficiency during the interview. We may require an additional video interview with Oberlin ESOL staff to further assess English proficiency. Submission of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Testing System (IELTS) is not required, but strongly recommended. TOEFL Code: 1587
For more information, visit the Piano Technology program overview or contact program director John Cavanaugh at 440-775-8275, or john.cavanaugh@oberlin.edu.