Music Performance Degree Program
Do you believe you were meant to perform? Would you like to take your musical talents to the next level? Your passion can lead to your professional success through our Music Performance programs at CMU. This program is the perfect first step to pursuing your performance goals. Through this program, you will gain experience and knowledge in different genres of music exploring both music history and music theory. This program will focus specifically on pedagogy and literature relevant to your area of focus. You will also strengthen your performance skills, both as an individual and within a group, and build on individual skills that are unique to you as a musician.
Music Performance Degree Program Offerings
This program is offered at the following locations:
Residential Campus
About This Program
In the Music Performance program, students pursue a broad base of general studies, applied music, music theory, music history, pedagogy and literature, along with a specific focus on strengthening performance related skills, both as an individual and in an ensemble setting. You have the option to major in either Vocal Performance or Piano/Organ Performance. The classes you take will depend on which area of study you choose, with 25 of your credit hours specifically focused in your area. The experiences you gain and skills you develop will prepare you for graduate school or any professional path you choose.
As a CMU Music Performance major, you will have opportunities to:
- Take courses in conducting, arranging, music theory, music history, aural skills, diction, pedagogy, and literature
- Participate in large ensembles including Concert Band, Jazz Band, Worship Band, Chorale, Conservatory Singers, and Opera
- Participate in small chamber ensembles
- Improve your leadership abilities both as an individual and as a part of an ensemble
- Develop advanced memory, concentration, and performance skills
- Interact and perform with a variety of skilled colleagues, evaluate and critique musical performances, and form new musical ideas
- Showcase your talents through concerts, recitals, and other performance opportunities
- Receive the preparation needed to earn an advanced degree
- Learn from distinguished faculty who are professionally established in the field of music performance
Degrees Available
- Bachelor of Music, Vocal Performance - Fayette Campus
- Bachelor of Music, Piano or Organ Performance - Fayette Campus
Other CMU Music Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Music
- Bachelor of Music Education - Vocal or Instrumental Certification
- Master of Music Education
- Minor in Music
Admission Requirements
Admission to CMU is selective. Our admission staff carefully reviews and evaluates each application on an individual basis. Please review all requirements prior to applying for admission.
Audition Information
Students can interview and audition with a Swinney Conservatory faculty member during a campus visit. Materials may include All-District or All-State audition music, solos, or etudes. Students may also be asked to sight-read or perform scales. Full tuition scholarships are available through the Central’s Got Talent audition day.
