Why Major in Music?
The BA in Music offers students a solid foundation in the performance, history, and technique of music while also offering the flexibility to choose their own unique path. Students in this degree program craft a focus that highlights their interests, whether those be in performance, or composition, or arts management. Students in this program have studied abroad, pursued internships, and enhanced their studies with a minor or second major.
Potential music majors are admitted to the program following a holistic examination that includes an audition, interview, and singing diagnostic exam. We are an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. The music major is directed through the Department of Music in the Division of Fine and Performing Arts at Elizabethtown College.
Our students gain an in-depth background in music theory, music history, aural skills, keyboard harmony and the creative and performance skills essential to any music career. The bachelor of arts in music degree is an excellent choice for those with a strong interest in music who want a liberal arts education to prepare for graduate school or careers such as music performance, music history, music business, acoustical engineering, or mass media and communications. As a music major in Pennsylvania, you’ll be close to some of the largest cultural and performance hubs on the east coast. Just a quick train ride from New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, you’ll have opportunities to experience the biggest names in the industry.
What do music students study?
As a music student, you’ll take a wide variety of music classes including coursework in music theory, music history, piano, aural skills, private lessons, and conducting. Additionally, you will have opportunities to participate in chamber and large music ensembles, including symphonic band, jazz band, orchestra, and choir. Continuous practice and immersion in music lead to enhanced academic engagement and musical performance. Your experience within the Department of Music culminates in a senior recital, seminar in musicology, and internship opportunities.
See all of the required courses and electives for the music major.
Minor in Music
A minor in music offers opportunities to acquire and develop skills in music theory, performance, music history, and literature. Students electing to minor in Music must consult with the Department Chair, who assigns a music faculty member to assess readiness for admission to the program.
We invite all prospective Music majors to join us on campus to meet the faculty, observe a class or performance and learn more about the auditions process.
Minor in Arts Administration
If you’re looking to work in marketing, administration or management in the world of performing arts, adding a minor in Arts Administration to your music major could be the perfect choice for you. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from our Fine Arts, Music and Business departments, giving you foundational business principles that you can apply to your chosen career in the commercial, non-profit and public arts sectors. Find out more about the Arts Administration minor here.
From the Department of Music
Mila Henry, ’06
Music Director, Pianist, and Conductor Artistic Director - The American Opera Project
"I chose the Bachelor of Arts in Music program at Elizabethtown College because I knew I wanted a musical foundation that involved multiple disciplines, as well as a liberal arts education that would influence my worldview and foster new endeavors I had not yet imagined. The opportunity to participate in countless ensembles showed me the art of collaboration and the strength of versatility; the personal attention from my advisers and professors to my career goals shaped the courses I took to prepare for the future; and the supportive atmosphere allowed me to thrive in a place that felt like home. As someone who now works as both a freelance musician and an arts administrator in New York City, I am always reflecting on how I made it to where I am today, and ever more aware of how I can show someone else that same path, as Etown did for me."