Music General & Performance Concentration

Degree: B.A.

The Bachelor of Arts in Music program provides a broad understanding of the integral role of music in society. To prepare students for graduate study and/or a career in the arts, a working knowledge of American music and Western art music is developed, including history, literature, and sources in art and vernacular traditions. Research into areas of specific interest is encouraged beyond the classroom and students are challenged to make music through analysis, composition, improvisation and performance.

Why Study This Program?

  • The primary goal of this B.A. in Music degree program is to continue providing students with a solid foundation in music.  
  • A comprehensive education in music that would allow students to explore aspects of performance, education, and entrepreneurship.  

What Will You Learn?

General Concentration:
Upon graduating from Millersville University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, the student will be able to do the following:

Performer 

  • Perform at Level 2 on his/her/their major instrument 
  • Demonstrate a knowledge of literature in his/her/their performance area through written and oral communication
  • Synthesize related concepts throughout the discipline including historical, theoretical, pedagogical and practical

Educator

  • Demonstrate a knowledge of different aspects of pedagogy in his/her specific teaching area 
  • Develop critical thinking and writing skills and an exploration of musical technology 

Entrepreneur

  • Explore entrepreneurship through classes in entrepreneurship and music business

Performance Concentration:
Upon graduating from Millersville University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, the student will be able to do the following: 

Performer

  • Perform at Level 4 on his/her major instrument 
  • Demonstrate a knowledge of literature in his/her performance area through written and oral communication 
  • Synthesize related concepts throughout the discipline including historical, theoretical, pedagogical and practical 
  • Be prepared to give solo and chamber recitals 
  • Prepare for graduate and/or professional auditions

Educator

  • Demonstrate a knowledge of different aspects of pedagogy in his/her/their specific teaching area. 
  • Develop critical thinking and writing skills and a competency with musical technology 
  • Pursue musical research into areas of special interest and present findings at a research symposium 
  • Pursue a graduate degree in a specialized area of music

Entrepreneur

  • Demonstrate principles of entrepreneurship by identifying a social need or issue and addressing it/them through successful social media campaigns and business practices in applications such as:
    • Establishing a studio 
    • Promoting concerts  
    • Working with non-profit organizations
  • Dual Degree options with Performance and Music Industry or Music Education
  • Master classes with international artists
  • Classical or Commercial track
  • Minor options in entreprenurial studies

All applicants to the Music Department must file two applications: one to the Millersville Admissions Office for acceptance to the University and one to the Department of Music for acceptance to the department. You must also schedule an audition with the Department of Music. The audition process includes four required components and is performed on scheduled dates. Auditions begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude no later than 1 p.m. Professional attire is expected.

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Music Performance at Millersville

MU’s music performance curriculum emphasizes discipline, history and traditions of American and Western music.