Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music: Instrumental Performance Emphasis
Pursue Your Passion for Music and Polish Your Performance Skills
Follow your passion for music and build the foundations for a meaningful and impactful performance career by earning your Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music with an Emphasis in Instrumental Performance. Grand Canyon University is pleased to offer this degree to aspiring musicians who thrive in the spotlight and wish to dedicate themselves to this art form. Beyond mastering instrumental performance, this program is designed to nurture artistic sensibilities, cultivate technical excellence, and empower you to captivate audiences with your musical storytelling.
Earn Your BA in Music: Instrumental Performance Emphasis at GCU
Offered by the College of Arts and Media, the invigorating curriculum is offered on campus and can empower you to sharpen your musical skills while developing a deep appreciation of music theory and history. You will experience intensive music training in private instruction and study the art of solo performance while also training for collaborative performances in group settings. GCU’s music department routinely hosts formal public recitals typically performed by junior and senior music performance majors as well as faculty and guest artists.
Instrumental Performance Course Topics
This degree combines classroom instruction with applied practice. Course topics are tailored to help enhance your musical expertise, master your primary instrument and improve your performance abilities. Students in this degree program will study the following topic areas:
- How music is used to express different elements of culture, civilization and worldview
- The organizational structures in music, including variation, rondo and sonata, through the lens of the works of the masters
- Chamber music literature, with an emphasis on learning the standard repertoire through reading and listening assignments
- Advanced techniques of conducting, including rehearsal techniques, score reading, artistic interpretation, programming and baton technique
- Advanced studies of the structure of music, including harmony, melody, form and rhythm, with an emphasis on skill development in analysis and composition
The BA in Music: instrumental performance at GCU embraces an inclusive approach to musical education within the framework of a Christian worldview. Welcoming students from diverse religious backgrounds, the program fosters an atmosphere of respect while emphasizing the artistry of performance, all rooted in the values of the Christian faith.
Gain Practical Performance Experience
Students in this music performance degree program are expected to present formal solo performances in both their junior and senior years. There may be multiple opportunities to give performances as part of an ensemble, enabling students to gain familiarity with multiple and diverse repertoires, as well as stage performances to help develop confidence while in the spotlight. Furthermore, music performance majors have the opportunity to conduct research on the profession and analyze its business practices.
Career Paths for BA in Music: Instrumental Performance Emphasis Graduates
This degree is a versatile choice that can pave the way toward a career in the performing arts industry and others that support it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it’s common for graduates to pursue careers as solo or ensemble musicians.1 Acquiring performance skills as a musician requires rigorous training and consistent practice.2
Some graduates may seek positions within settings such as:3
- Concert halls
- Churches
- Club halls
- Recording studios or film production agencies
- Radio or music stations
- Schools or arts organization
Study Instrumental Performance at an Accredited University
Dive into the world of instrumental performance at GCU, an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring quality education. Since 1968, the HLC has consistently accredited GCU, and the College of Arts and Media aligns with the university’s dedication to maintaining the principles and standards set by our accrediting bodies.
NASM Standards
The bachelor’s in music performance degree is aligned to the standards of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) as a professional performance degree. It helps to ensure a comprehensive and high-quality education that meets the benchmarks essential for aspiring musicians pursuing excellence in their craft.
BA in Music: Instrumental Performance Emphasis FAQs
Navigating a career path can be an exciting opportunity. Engaging in thorough research about your chosen field and degree options can provide valuable clarity. Delve into the following frequently asked questions and answers to kickstart your exploration.
GCU’s three music performance emphases — instrumental, piano and voice — all can provide you a focused education based on the type of performance you are interested in. A music performance degree teaches music literature from varying genres, rehearsal pedagogy techniques and advanced studies of musical structure for composition and arrangement. Whereas aspiring classical musicians or vocalists commonly pursue a degree in music performance.2
Assessing the worth of a bachelor's in music degree, specifically with a performance emphasis, depends on your personal goals, interests and the specific career path you envision. Prospective students should consider their passion for music, career objectives and the potential opportunities the degree might offer before determining its value. Earning a bachelor’s degree in music: instrumental performance may be worth it if you enjoy immersing yourself in musical expression, honing technical skills and envision a career dedicated to mastering an instrument or pursuing musical performance as a passion.
According to CareerExplorer, 61% of musicians typically hold a bachelor's degree, making it the most prevalent educational qualification among them. Additionally, 21% pursue a master’s degree, while 13% have a high school diploma.4 Although not mandatory, a formal education can significantly contribute to refining musical abilities and enhancing performance techniques for aspiring musicians.2
Music has the power to potentially lift the soul and inspire unity and can be a universal language that transcends boundaries and borders. If you aspire to share your love of music with others and to inspire them to strive for new heights, a Bachelor of Arts in Music degree with an instrumental performance focus from GCU can help you work toward pursuing your goal.
1 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). What Musicians and Singers Do. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on Nov. 30, 2023.
2 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). How to Become a Musician or Singer. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on Nov. 30, 2023.
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Sept. 6). Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved on Nov. 30, 2023.
4 CareerExplorer. (n.d.). What education do musicians have? Retrieved on Nov. 30, 2023.
General Education Requirements
General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University’s General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.
Requirements
Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.
Course Options
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
- COM-263, Elements of Intercultural Communication: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments. Students are required to take 3 credits of college mathematics or higher.
Course Options
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.
Course Options
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- INT-244, World Religions: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is a study in rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation; basic keyboard performance; and sight singing. Computer-assisted ear training is utilized. Study is devoted to the structure of music which includes harmony, melody, form, and rhythm. Skill development in analysis and composition is emphasized. The music of the “common practice period” will be studied. Prerequisite: Theory Placement Examination.
Course Description
This course is designed as class instruction for students with limited or no previous piano training. Instruction includes the study of piano technique and literature designed to pass Part I of the Piano Proficiency Examination.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
The Pep Band provides students with the opportunity to develop their musical skills through rehearsal and performance in a band ensemble. Members are selected through an annual audition open to both music and non-music majors at Grand Canyon University. Prerequisite: Admission into this ensemble by audition only or instructor's permission. This course must be repeated each semester of residency.
Course Description
The Wind Ensemble is comprised of music majors, minors, and students from other disciplines. Musicians are provided an opportunity to increase their performance skills through an active and challenging involvement with the creative process. The Wind Ensemble also offers non-music majors an avenue in which to continue making music throughout their college careers. The literature performed is selected from the finest contemporary and traditional repertoire. Members are selected through an annual audition open to both music and non-music majors at Grand Canyon University. Prerequisite: Admission into this ensemble by audition only or instructor's permission. This course must be repeated each semester of residency.
Course Description
This course emphasizes skill development through analysis and composition. Prerequisite: MUS-125.
Course Description
This course is a continuation of MUS-102. It includes passing Part II of the Piano Proficiency Examination. Prerequisite: MUS-102 or Music Department approval.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts in sound theory, acoustic principles, microphone types and techniques, sound equipment, signal flow, cable management, stage arrangement, and documentation through lecture and hands-on activities.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
This course emphasizes advanced rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation; basic keyboard performance; and sight singing. Computer-assisted ear training is utilized. Music examples are selected from Bach through Wagner. This course also includes an advanced study in analysis and part writing utilizing modulation and chromatic harmony. Prerequisite: MUS-155.
Course Description
This course is class instruction for students with limited or no previous voice training. Content includes the study of vocal skills for personal performance and beginning voice instruction.
Course Description
This course will survey the history of American popular music genres. Through understanding styles and forms within the context of their origins, popular music is understood in the relationship of its functions in society.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course is a survey of music from primitive times to the mid-18th century. It presents the growth of music in the Middle Ages and Renaissance through the contrapuntal schools, culminating in the work of J. S. Bach and the development of opera and oratorio during the Baroque period. Prerequisite: MUS-125.
Course Description
This course is a study of the fundamentals and techniques of conducting. Emphasis is placed on basic conducting skills, fundamentals of baton technique, left hand technique, non-verbal communication, leadership, conducting terminology, transpositions, and score reading. Techniques of score study, artistic interpretation, and programming will be explored. Prerequisite: MUS-155.
Course Description
This course is an introduction to the music of the world as a means to express different elements of culture, civilization, and worldview.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
This course will prepare students for success as creative professionals. Students will research their industry, develop their personal brand, and establish business and entrepreneurial practices.
Course Description
This writing-intensive course is a survey of music from the mid-l8th century to modern times. Study is devoted to the rise of homophonic music, the art song, the nationalistic schools, and the principal composers of the classical, romantic, and contemporary periods. Prerequisite: MUS-355.
Course Description
This course is a study of the business and professional skills needed for musicians to turn their artistic passion into a profitable career. Topics include the mindset of entrepreneurs, networking and marketing, financial skills, and developing the independent teaching studio. The course culminates in the development of a professional portfolio and/or business plan that is true to the student’s artistic voice.
Course Description
This course is a survey of chamber music and symphonic literature. Emphasis is placed on studying selected repertoire through research and listening assignments.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
A formal, public recital, sponsored by the music department, in which the student presents a solo recital of a length appropriate to the major. The recital is to be given in the student's junior year. Co-Requisite: The student must concurrently be enrolled in the appropriate level of private instruction.
Course Description
This course will survey the development of jazz music from its genesis, transformation, and growth to current postmodern practices. The styles are explored through the social identity of the music and musicians.
Course Description
This course is a study of teaching instrumental music in the private music studio. The instruction is generally at the beginner level. This course includes observation in both individual and group lesson settings. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing or Music Department approval.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
This capstone course provides students an opportunity to develop their skills in an area of interest. Students will complete an independent project under faculty supervision.
Course Description
This course is a study and application of techniques of scoring and arranging music for various instrumental and vocal ensembles. Programmatic technology requirements apply, as outlined in the University Policy Handbook. Prerequisite: MUS-260 or WSA-301.
Course Description
This course is the private applied study required for music majors in their major instrument or area. Prerequisite: Instructor or Music Department Approval.
Course Description
A formal, public recital, sponsored by the music department, in which the student presents a solo recital of a length and format appropriate to the major. The recital may consist solely of performance or may be in the form of a lecture-recital. The recital is to be given in the student's final semester of residency. Students must pass a formal hearing prior to final approval of the recital presentation. Co-Requisite: The student must concurrently be enrolled in the appropriate level of private instruction.
- GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
- Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
- Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.