Music, B.M.
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degree choose between three different concentrations: Commercial Music & Audio Production, Performance, or Music Education.
The concentration in Commercial Music and Audio Production (CMAP) combines traditional studies in music with courses in music technology, jazz, and other popular musical styles. CMAP students also take classes in live sound reinforcement, studio recording, and music synthesis. Those enrolled in this program gain valuable hands-on experience in WCU鈥檚 state-of-the-art recording studio.
The concentration in Performance features鈥痚ight semesters of lessons鈥痠n your performing area, two public recitals, and opportunities for participation in a wide variety of ensembles. It also includes advanced study in music theory, literature, and performance. Most graduates of this program will go on to further study at the graduate level.
The concentration in Music Education provides students with the thorough training necessary to be a successful music educator in the public schools of North Carolina and the region. Graduates receive both the B.M. and B.S.Ed. degrees.鈥� Our Music Education students take courses designed to develop their teaching skills in a wide variety of areas: woodwinds, brass, percussion, strings, and choral and popular music. They also have ample opportunity to enhance their experience by working with the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band and other student performance ensembles. All Music Education students complete a semester of student teaching (and a pre-student-teaching internship) in a public school band, choral, or elementary music program.
Major Requirements
To major in music, students must pass an audition in the principal performance area and take a music aptitude examination. All music majors must pass a public recital in the last semester of principal applied lessons. The choice of ensembles used to satisfy degree requirements is made by the student and their studio teacher, who also serves as their academic advisor.
A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required for graduation. The BM concentration in Music Education requires 126 hours; the concentrations in Performance or Commercial Music & Audio Production require 120 hours.
Eight Semester Plans
Students pursuing a B.M. in Music may follow a prescribed schedule of study to complete their degree in eight semesters.
View the current eight-semester plan for a B.M., Performance Concentration
View the current 8-semester plan for B.M./B.S.Ed. in Music Education