Department of Music

The music program strives to advance the comprehensive formation of musicians who can perform music, organize music (composition), and analyze music (theory, history). The program accomplishes this aim through a wide range of teaching and performance situations, including private lessons, traditional classroom environments, and large group rehearsals. These opportunities are offered to the entire University.

As a nationally accredited unit of the College of Arts and Sciences, the music program is committed to its role within the University mission (especially the development of the whole person), compliance with the standards of the National Association of Schools of Music, and ongoing evaluation of the program in all its aspects.

The bachelor of arts degree in music provides students a broad education in the sciences and the humanities as they give particular emphasis to the comprehensive study of music. Three tracks are offered: instrumental, vocal, and general. The degree prepares students for careers in the music industry, church music, and education (teaching privately or seeking certification through programs such as the master of arts in teaching), as well as graduate study.

New students, including transfer students, will be accepted as music majors on a probationary status until they present a satisfactory audition at one of the following: 1) scholarship audition; 2) the performance final examination at the end of the first semester; or 3) by special arrangement with the faculty.

A variety of large and chamber ensembles are open to all University students with prior musical experience. These ensembles, which perform music of all types and styles, include the University Singers, University Wind Symphony, University Women’s Chorale, University Community Orchestra, Jazz Band, Guitar Ensemble, Chamber Ensembles, and Chapel Music Ensemble. Each presents a series of performances throughout the academic year.

The Music Study Handbook contains details about the requirements for MUS 001 (Performance Attendance); and MUS 286, and MUS 486 (Private Lessons), and necessary information about the senior capstone. The handbook is made available online to all music majors at the beginning of each year.

Opportunities for individual performance are available through regularly scheduled student recitals. They are included as a part of Music at Midweek, a weekly series of professional and non-professional performances. Attendance at these and other designated campus performances is required of all music students (See MUS 001). Unsatisfactory attention to this requirement can delay or deny graduation. Students choosing to work toward the bachelor of arts in music will complete their studies with a senior capstone ­supervised by a faculty member. The selection of a topic and work toward that completion will begin during the junior year.

Practice room use limited to students enrolled in music courses or by permission of the director of the music program.