¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ

Young woman playing a violet

Bachelor of Arts in Music

Music reveals so much about life, emotion and human nature to us. Music at the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ is an interdisciplinary and hands-on program focused on enhancing your musical talents, knowledge of music theory and music's impact on society in multiple ways.

Why Study Music at St. Thomas?

You study a diverse range of concepts in our program, including music performance, history, theory, pedagogy, its role in society and global music. You also engage in private vocal, instrumental or composition lessons, and further foster your talents in piano skills courses, ensembles and more. Our graduates have gone on to pursue a variety of career paths, such as continuing their education in graduate music programs and teaching private music lessons.

A Comprehensive and Rigorous Curriculum

  • Course Requirements
  • Auditions
  • Four-Year Plan
  • Degrees Awarded
  • Community Engagement
  • Course Requirements

    You complete courses in piano and aural skills, music theory, music media, performance studies, ensembles, conducting, history, literature and entrepreneurship. You will also perform in two recitals during your ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career. The best part? You choose your electives based on your particular area of musical interest.

    Auditions

    You will need to submit an audition video if you plan to major in music at St. Thomas. The audition should include up to 10 minutes of music showcasing at least two compositions or movements of contrasting style in one continuous video. Incoming students are also considered for a music major scholarship if they submit their audition video by February 1.

    Four-Year Plan

    We recommend connecting with a member of our faculty to plan your degree early on in your ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career at the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ. You can find a sample four-year plan via the link below.

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Arts in Music
    • Minor in Music

    Community Engagement

    Music majors are engaged in the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ through a wide variety of internships, ensembles, international travel and the department’s Harmony Crew program. They perform at facilities serving traditionally marginalized communities. We also see students participate in research with the Collaborative Inquiry and Young Scholars grants.

    Course Requirements

    Course Requirements

    You complete courses in piano and aural skills, music theory, music media, performance studies, ensembles, conducting, history, literature and entrepreneurship. You will also perform in two recitals during your ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career. The best part? You choose your electives based on your particular area of musical interest.

    Auditions

    Auditions

    You will need to submit an audition video if you plan to major in music at St. Thomas. The audition should include up to 10 minutes of music showcasing at least two compositions or movements of contrasting style in one continuous video. Incoming students are also considered for a music major scholarship if they submit their audition video by February 1.

    Four-Year Plan

    Four-Year Plan

    We recommend connecting with a member of our faculty to plan your degree early on in your ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career at the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ. You can find a sample four-year plan via the link below.

    Degrees Awarded

    Degrees Awarded

    • Bachelor of Arts in Music
    • Minor in Music

    Community Engagement

    Community Engagement

    Music majors are engaged in the ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ through a wide variety of internships, ensembles, international travel and the department’s Harmony Crew program. They perform at facilities serving traditionally marginalized communities. We also see students participate in research with the Collaborative Inquiry and Young Scholars grants.

    Music teacher in class with students.

    Career Paths

    Our program will prepare you for a fulfilling career with academic knowledge and practical skills sought after by employers in a range of industries.

    • Music Producer
    • Performer
    • Conductor
    • Composer
    • Music lessons teacher
    • Church musician

    Scholarships

    We offer renewable competitive and performance-based scholarships for four years of study at St. Thomas. More information is on our department website.

    Music Major Scholarship

    The Music Major Scholarships range from $1,500 to $10,000 per year. Admitted students planning to major in music, music performance, music business or music education are encouraged to apply. Supporting materials are due by February 1, and selected applicants receive an audition invitation for the scholarship invitational in the spring.

    Loftus Family Alternative Music Creativity Award

    This award is available to any current St. Thomas student demonstrating great potential in their ability to instigate and sustain artistic creativity through music performance, composition or production. Music faculty can nominate any candidate.

    Mary O. Petra Memorial Endowed Scholarship in Music

    This scholarship is available to any current St. Thomas student pursuing a major or minor in music. You must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. Music faculty can nominate candidates, and students participating in ensembles receive preference.

    An Array of Knowledge and Experiences

    Our program prepares you for what comes after St. Thomas through our acclaimed faculty and openness to multiple musical styles.

    Internationally Acclaimed

    Our renowned faculty lead all classes and lessons with their students.

    World Travelers

    Ensembles have numerous international travel opportunities throughout a student’s ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ career at St. Thomas.

    Equity

    We welcome all genres and styles of music in our department.

    Music video featuring students

    Enhance Your Talent and Knowledge

    Music at St. Thomas focuses on educating the whole student, making them a better musician and a versatile professional in the process. Our students graduate with a practical skill set that allows them to pursue multiple career paths.

    Take the Next Step

    best-value-logo-2022-transparent.pngThere is more to learn about St. Thomas; including our ranking as a Best Value ¸»¶þ´úÊÓƵ by U.S. News & World Report, the many classroom and extracurricular activities that will be part of your student experience and so much more. Schedule a visit to see our beautiful campus or start your application today.