Core courses

All music majors take a similar set of core courses:

Mus 164—Intro to Music Technology
Mus 251—Materials and Structures of Music I
Mus 252—Applied Theory I
Mus 253—Materials and Structures of Music II
Mus 254—Applied Theory II

Mus 181, 182, 281—Class Piano I, II & III
(As needed to pass piano proficiency)

Upper division core:

MUS 351  Materials and structures of music III
MUS 352   Applied Theory III
MUS 353  Materials and structures of Music IV
MUS 354   Applied Theory IV 

MUS 359 History of Music: Antiquity to 1650
MUS 360  History of Music: 1650-1850
MUS 361  History of Music: 1850-present

All music majors should enroll in a 300-level performance studies course and a 200-level music theory course during the freshman year.

A performance audition (usually completed in the semester before enrolling at WSU) is required for enrolling in 300-level performance classes. Music theory placement tests are taken as part of the performance audition.

Other music courses you could take:

Music Fundamentals
Music and Recording Technology
Materials and Structures of Music
Jazz Theory
Intro to Jazz Improvisation
Rock Music: History and Social Analysis

This information is for example only. It doesn't include all requirements, and you'll have the opportunity to choose from many more courses than we can show here.

See the WSU Catalog for courses and degree requirements. Talk with your academic advisor about planning and scheduling your courses. All students must meet requirements as outlined in the catalog in order to graduate.

You have the opportunity to join a wide range of performance groups, from small ensembles to the Cougar Marching Band. Some examples:

Concert Choir
University Singers
Vocal Ensembles
Symphony Orchestra
Chamber Ensembles
Symphonic Band
Wind Symphony
Jazz Lab Band
VoJazz Ensemble
Jazz Combos
Accompanying
Opera Workshop
Marching Band

Many performing groups (but not all) require auditions to join. Performance groups are one credit-hour classes.

As a music performance major, you'll learn directly from professors who are professional musicians in their own right and dedicated teachers.

Among the instruments taught at WSU:

Piano
Voice
Organ
French Horn
Trumpet
Trombone
Baritone
Tuba
Percussion
Violin
Viola
Cello
Contrabass
Flute
Oboe
Clarinet
Bassoon
Saxophone

Music facilities at Washington State University include:

• 400- and 100-seat concert halls in Kimbrough Hall
• The 700-seat Bryan Hall Theatre, which houses a 47-rank Schanz organ
• The Recording Studio Complex
• Rehearsal space for all sizes of ensembles
• The Kemble Stout Music Listening Library
• Electronic Piano/Music Computer Lab

For music majors

Scholarships are available for incoming students through two scholarship audition days held in the spring semester. Potential students attend one of these audition days for acceptance into the music program and to compete for scholarships.

See the School of Music website for audition dates and procedures.

Scholarships are also available to continuing students within the music program, based primarily upon achievements in the program.

One-fourth of all music scholarship funds go to students not majoring in music.

Music majors also may apply for university-level scholarships and more than $50,000 in scholarships awarded by the College of Liberal Arts.

For all students at WSU

A variety of state, federal, and university-sponsored programs are available to help students with educational costs. Washington State University awards millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarships to students every year based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of the two.

Complete the Washington State University general scholarship application and the FAFSA to ensure your eligibility for the widest range of scholarships and need-based financial aid.

For information or to apply for financial aid and scholarships from WSU, see the Scholarships and Finances section of the WSU website.

If you enjoy playing music and being part of musical groups, you can continue in college (even if you aren't majoring in music).

• Prepare for college-level music with strong participation in high school bands, orchestras, choirs, or private studios.

It's a good idea to have additional preparation, especially if you're planning to major in music. If you can, prepare yourself through:

• Training or exposure to music theory concepts
• Keyboard skills (regardless of performance area)
• Lessons in at least one instrument or performance area

Nearly 100 percent of WSU music graduates have obtained employment in their chosen fields or have been accepted into graduate programs. Many have positions throughout the nation and world in teaching, administration, the music industry, and performing.