University of Mary Washington

What you'll study

The programme blends applied lessons and ensemble work with academic study in music theory, music history and aural skills. Students take a sequence of core theory and musicianship courses, surveys of Western music history, and specialised electives in areas such as composition, conducting, music technology and ethnomusicology.

Typical components

• Applied lessons: weekly one‑to‑one instruction on primary instrument or voice, scaled to experience level.
• Ensembles: chamber groups, concert choir, orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz band and contemporary/new music ensembles with regular rehearsals and public performances.
• Core musicianship: sequential courses in theory, harmony, counterpoint and aural skills to develop reading and analytical ability.
• Music history and literature: survey courses and focused seminars covering medieval to contemporary music, performance practice and critical approaches.
• Composition and technology: fundamentals of composing, arranging and instruction in music software, recording and production techniques.
• Recital and capstone: solo or collaborative recital requirement and a senior project or research paper that demonstrates performance and/or scholarly competence.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary study: opportunities to take theatre, dance, education or liberal arts electives to broaden professional skills.

Students may also pursue pedagogical coursework if they aim for state teacher certification routes or plan postgraduate study in performance or education.

Entry requirements

Admission to the music programme is through the university's general undergraduate admission process plus a department audition. Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent and submit academic transcripts and any materials required by the central admissions office.

• Audition: applicants must audition on their principal instrument or voice. Audition requirements typically include prepared repertoire, scales/technical work and sight‑reading; repertoire expectations vary by instrument and level.
• Theory/assessment: some applicants may be asked to complete a placement or diagnostic test in music theory and aural skills to determine appropriate course sequencing.
• Supporting materials: schools usually request a personal statement and letters of recommendation; applicants may also submit recordings, portfolios or video if unable to audition on campus.
• International students: must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide certified academic records; additional application documentation may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates from the music programme move into a range of fields that value musical expertise, communication and creative problem‑solving. Common pathways include:

• Performance: professional work as soloists, ensemble players, choral singers or freelance musicians in local, regional and national contexts.
• Music education: classroom teaching at various levels (often following additional teacher‑certification requirements), private instrumental or vocal instruction, and community music programmes.
• Arts administration and management: roles in programming, fundraising, audience development and operations for performing arts organisations.
• Music production and technology: careers in recording, sound engineering, media composition and audio post‑production.
• Composition and arranging: work in concert composition, film/TV/game scoring, or commercial music writing.
• Further study: many graduates pursue postgraduate degrees in performance, musicology, composition, conducting or music education.

Why study at University of Mary Washington

University of Mary Washington offers a liberal arts environment with close student‑faculty interaction and a department that emphasises both performance excellence and academic rigour. Small class sizes and individual lessons allow personalised mentorship from faculty who are active performers and scholars.

• Performance opportunities: frequent public concerts, a variety of ensembles and recital slots give students regular stage experience.
• Facilities and resources: access to practice rooms, rehearsal space, performance venues and music technology resources to support study and production work.
• Interdisciplinary links: easy collaboration with theatre and other arts programmes on productions and interdisciplinary projects.
• Community engagement: partnerships with local schools, arts organisations and civic programmes provide teaching, outreach and internship opportunities.
• Preparation for careers and graduate study: the programme combines practical skills, academic study and advising that support diverse professional goals or further academic work.