University of Utah

What you'll study

The undergraduate music curriculum combines applied lessons, ensemble participation, core musicianship and contextual studies. Typical components include:

• Applied lessons: one-to-one instruction in your principal instrument or voice with regular juries and recitals.
• Ensembles: chamber groups, concert choir, symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz ensembles and contemporary music groups depending on specialism.
• Musicianship and theory: sequential study in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, ear training and keyboard skills.
• Music history and literature: survey courses in Western music history, ethnomusicology and studies of 20th–21st century music.
• Composition and arranging: techniques in composition, orchestration and scoring, with opportunities to workshop and have works performed.
• Music technology: courses in recording, audio production, MIDI, and digital music creation in studio facilities.
• Music education and pedagogy: for students pursuing teaching, coursework includes methods, curriculum design and supervised practicum in schools.
• Interdisciplinary options: elective links with theatre, dance, film and the broader arts provide training in musical theatre, stagecraft, voice for actors and collaborative productions.
• Capstone and recital: final-year projects typically include a senior recital, research project or portfolio demonstrating professional readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma and demonstrate solid academic preparation. The school assesses musical potential through a required live or recorded audition and may require a theory placement test or keyboard proficiency screening.

• Academic transcripts from secondary school (and post-secondary study if applicable).
• Audition: prepared repertoire that showcases technical and musical strengths; requirements vary by principal study and level.
• Music theory/aural skills assessment and possible placement examinations.
• Letters of recommendation, typically from music teachers or conductors, and a personal statement outlining goals and experience.
• International applicants should provide evidence of English-language proficiency where required and submit equivalent credentials and audition materials.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across performance, education, creative industries and arts leadership. Common pathways include:

• Professional performer in orchestras, chamber groups, opera, musical theatre or as a soloist.
• Music educator at primary, secondary or tertiary levels, or private studio teaching.
• Composer, arranger or scorer for concert, media and theatrical projects.
• Music technologist, audio engineer or producer working in studios, broadcast and live sound.
• Arts administration, programming, festival management and community arts organisations.
• Further study at graduate level (MM, DMA, MA) in performance, composition, musicology, ethnomusicology or music education.

Why study at University of Utah

The University of Utah offers specialist faculty, dedicated performance venues and a broad ensemble programme within a major research university. The School of Music’s studio instruction and ensemble opportunities are complemented by productive collaboration with the Department of Theatre, access to recording and rehearsal facilities, and frequent public performances that build professional experience.

Situated in Salt Lake City, the university benefits from an active regional arts and cultural scene, partnerships with local schools and organisations, and proximity to opportunities for touring, outreach and interdisciplinary projects. Students gain mentoring from experienced practitioners and opportunities for internships, community engagement and graduate study preparation.