Music BA

The Music Department, part of the Performing Arts Division, offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music providing students with a dynamic and flexible musical education within a liberal arts framework. The BA in Music fosters artistic growth, academic scholarship, and creative exploration, preparing students for a variety of career and graduate study opportunities.  

This degree’s flexibility allows students to pursue a double major or dual degree, tailoring their academic experience to align with their interests and professional aspirations. Music majors who strategically complement their electives and complete a Business minor may also be eligible for admission into Alfred University’s MBA 4+1 program, enabling them to earn a Master of Business Administration with just one additional year of study.  

Students engage in private applied instruction, diverse ensemble experiences including Orchestra, Choir, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Pop Music Ensemble, and chamber groups, as well as innovative music courses. The program culminates in a senior recital or capstone experience, allowing students to showcase their individual interests and creativity through their personal musical journey.  

Upon completion of the BA in Music, students will be able to demonstrate the following:  

1. Musical Proficiency  
   Students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of music theory, harmony, and structure by applying principles learned in Music Theory I and II to both written and aural musical examples, while showing proficiency in class piano or guitar.
2. Historical and Cultural Knowledge  
   Students will analyze and interpret the historical, cultural, and social contexts of music through coursework in Music History I and II, and demonstrate knowledge of diverse global and American musical traditions in elective courses such as World Music and American Popular Music.
3. Performance and Technique  
   Students will develop technical proficiency and artistic expression through private lessons and ensemble participation, demonstrating their ability to perform with both technical skill and creative interpretation in various musical genres.
4. Critical Thinking and Research  
   Students will engage in critical thinking and independent research, culminating in the Senior Recital or Capstone Project, where they synthesize knowledge gained throughout their coursework to explore a specific topic or area in music, demonstrating both scholarly and creative inquiry.
5. Interdisciplinary Application  
   Students will integrate their musical education with interdisciplinary knowledge gained through liberal arts courses, applying this broad perspective to enhance their artistic practice, with an emphasis on cultural awareness and global perspectives

All courses in major area must have a minimum grade of C.