Ithaca College

What you'll study

The programme provides comprehensive training in core musicianship and practical performance. Typical study includes applied lessons (one-to-one instruction), ensemble participation, music theory and analysis, ear training, music history and literature, score reading and conducting basics. Students also choose specialised pathways—such as performance, composition, music technology/recording, jazz studies or music education—which add focused coursework and applied experiences.

• Applied Lessons: Weekly private instruction on your primary instrument or voice, with periodic juries and a senior recital/project.
• Ensembles: Large ensembles (orchestra, wind ensemble, choirs) and chamber groups, plus opportunities in jazz combos, opera workshops and contemporary music ensembles.
• Core Musicianship: Sequential music theory, ear training, form and analysis courses, and studies in orchestration or arranging.
• History & Literature: Survey courses covering Western art music, music of diverse cultures and contemporary practices.
• Technology & Production: Coursework in music recording, digital audio workstations, MIDI and music production for students on the music technology path.
• Composition & Creativity: Composition lessons, counterpoint, and practicum in writing for ensembles and electronic media.
• Education Pathway (where available): Foundations in pedagogy, methods classes and supervised teaching experiences for those aiming for classroom or private-studio careers (state certification requires additional specific credentials).

Students combine major requirements with general education courses across the college, allowing interdisciplinary study and opportunities to collaborate with theatre and other arts programmes.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a completed application to Ithaca College, academic transcripts and a successful performance audition. Applicants should demonstrate proficiency on their primary instrument or voice and submit prepared repertoire as specified by the School of Music. Prospective students may also be asked to complete a music theory placement exercise and/or an interview.

• Academic background: Secondary school diploma or equivalent with a solid academic record; recommended coursework includes music, mathematics and English.
• Audition/Portfolio: Live or recorded audition with required repertoire (solo pieces and sight-reading or prepared etudes as requested).
• Music theory skills: Basic theory and aural skills are expected; placement testing may determine first-year course level.
• International applicants: Proof of English proficiency is required when applicable (e.g. recognised language testing), plus submission of audition materials.

Specific audition requirements and application materials are published by the School of Music and should be consulted early in the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates from the programme pursue a range of music-related careers. Common paths include:

• Performer: Solo and ensemble careers, orchestral or chamber musicianship, freelance performance, and musical theatre collaborations.
• Music educator: Teaching in schools, private studio teaching, and community music education (note that K–12 public school certification typically requires additional state-specific teacher preparation).
• Composer/Arranger: Writing for ensembles, media composition, and arranging for performance or recording projects.
• Music technology & production: Recording engineer, producer, sound designer, and roles in music software and audio post-production.
• Arts administration & production: Management, programming, touring coordination and development roles within performing-arts organisations.
• Further study: Many graduates progress to master’s-level study in performance, composition, conducting, music education or music technology.

Practical elements of the curriculum—recitals, ensemble credits, internships and recording projects—are designed to build a professional portfolio and industry contacts.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College’s School of Music combines conservatory-calibre training with the breadth of a liberal-arts college. Students benefit from close, regular contact with experienced faculty who are active performers, composers and educators, and from numerous on-campus performance opportunities across genres. The college’s location in a culturally engaged small city provides a lively local arts scene and frequent collaboration with theatre and dance programmes.

• Performance opportunities: Regular recitals, ensemble concerts, opera and musical theatre productions, and student-run projects.
• Facilities and resources: Dedicated practice spaces, ensemble rehearsal rooms, recording and production labs, and access to performance technology.
• Faculty mentorship: One-to-one lessons, small ensemble coaching and career advising to support professional development.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Easy collaboration with the theatre programme and other creative departments for staged productions, interdisciplinary projects and film/theatre scoring opportunities.

These features make Ithaca College a strong choice for students seeking focused musical training combined with opportunities to develop broader artistic and professional skills.