Totino Fine Arts Center, F2224
3003 Snelling Avenue North
St. Paul, MN 55113
Department of Music & Theatre
Music Performance

Department of Music & Theatre
Music Performance
- Bachelor of Music
- Undergraduate
Prepare for a career as a professional musician, to pursue graduate studies in vocal, piano, or instrumental music performance, to teach private music lessons, or pursue other related careers.
of Northwestern music performance graduates felt professionally prepared by their education
often combine multiple income streams to experience fulfilling careers
in this degree: vocal, piano, instrumental
AUDITIONS
Entrance auditions are required for this major. Auditions are held during the spring semester. You must be admitted to both Northwestern and the Department of Music & Theatre in order to major in music. Please refer to the Music Admissions & Scholarships for audition requirements and dates.
Why study music performance at Northwestern?
Learn from highly credentialed music faculty, seasoned performers, noted educators, sought-after conductors, and acclaimed composers who are dedicated to your musical excellence.
You can participate in competitions and perform on regional, national, and international tours while building your education on Northwestern’s 115+ year history as a Christ-centered institution of higher learning. Christian faculty will help you to grow in your faith and your music.
All Northwestern music degrees hold accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music, the principal U.S. accreditor for higher education in music.
With campus so close to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, students can take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving music communities.
If you are disciplined, have a passion for performing, and are interested in a career in music, this might be the right degree for you.
What will you learn?
You will learn to analyze, think critically, and perform musically.
Some classes include:
- Music Ensembles
- Chamber Music
- Private Lessons
- Recital Hour
- Music History
I play the notes as they are written, but it is God who makes the music.
Careers in music performance
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in music performance.
Discover CareersRelated Programs
Meet your professors
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
Meet the entire department
Kirk Moss, Ph.D.
Interim Dean, College of Arts & Humanities
Chair, Department of...
Dr. Moss serves as Interim Dean, College of Arts & Humanities and Professor of Music and Chair for the...