Prepare for a career as a professional musician in vocal, piano, or instrumental music performance. Laying the foundation to teach private music lessons or to pursue graduate studies.
Auditions
Entrance auditions are required for this major. Auditions are during the spring semester. You must be admitted to both Northwestern and the Department of Music & Theatre to major in music. Please refer to the Music Admissions & Scholarships for audition requirements and dates.
Music performance may be the right degree for you if you
- are disciplined
- have a passion for performing
- are interested in a career in music
Why study music performance at Northwestern?
In small classes, learn from credentialed music faculty, seasoned performers, sought-after conductors, and acclaimed composers who are dedicated to your musical excellence.
You can perform at regional, national, and international tours while building your education. Christian faculty will help you to grow in your faith and your music. With campus so close to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, students can take advantage of opportunities in Minnesota’s thriving music industries.
University of Northwestern – St. Paul is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the principal U.S. accreditor for higher education in music.
Request Information
What degree specializations are offered in Music Performance?
Students will complete 34 credits specific to Voice Performance.
- Analytic Techniques
- Solo Vocal Literature
- Private Voice – Major
- Junior Recital – Half
- Senior Recital – Full
- Diction for Singers I
- Diction for Singers II
- Advanced Conducting
- Vocal Pedagogy I
- Vocal Pedagogy II
Students will complete 31 credits specific to Instrumental Performance.
- Orchestration
- Analytic Techniques
- Instrumental Literature – Major Instrument
- Private Instrument – Major
- Junior Recital – Half
- Senior Recital – Full
- Advanced Conducting
Select one of the following:
- Instrumental Methods Overview
- Woodwind Methods
- Brass Methods
- Percussion Methods
- String Methods
Students will complete 32 credits specific to Piano Performance.
- Analytic Techniques
- Piano Literature
- Piano Pedagogy
- Keyboard Techniques
- Private Piano – Major
- Junior Recital – Half
- Senior Recital – Full
I am grateful and humbled by the goodness of God as I reflect on the many blessings that I’ve received throughout my time at Northwestern – the sweet friendships, the caring and esteemed faculty, the musical opportunities, and so many special memories. All glory be to Christ, my Rock and my Redeemer!
Careers in music performance
There are a variety of career and academic pathways that begin with a degree in music performance.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Freelance or contracted performer
- Private instructor
- Church worship leader
- Audio technician
- Concert promotion
- Concert hall management or administration
- Music program coordination
- Artist representation
- Arts administration or management
- Promotion/media relations
- Collaborative pianist
- Orchestral musician
- Music librarian
What will I learn?
You will learn to analyze, think critically, and perform musically.
MUH 3101
Western Music History to 1750
A study of the music of Western civilization traced from its primitive origins through the Renaissance to the Baroque period, ending with the music of J.S. Bach.
MUH 3102
Western Music History after 1750
A study of the music of Western civilization from the Rococo period to the present day, with special attention given to the major musical forms in vocal and instrumental music as demonstrated in the works of the major composers.
MTC 1007
Music Theory Foundations
A study of the foundational concepts of music: pitch, rhythm, scales, modes, intervals, chords, and harmony with an introduction to notation software, piano, and singing.
Still have questions about this program or how to apply?
Our team is ready with answers!
Discover the School of Arts & Humanities
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.
