performing arts: music
The music program at Western Oregon University, fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), gives students an opportunity for broad study in music, as well as a concentration in an area of particular interest, including vocal and instrumental performance studies, conducting, jazz studies, studio teaching, composition and arranging, and electronic music. Students graduating with a music degree from Western Oregon University can pursue graduate degrees in music, pursue careers in the music industry, or seek teacher certification..
Prepare for success
The following categories of music scholarships are available for students who demonstrate aptitude in performance and scholarship. It is imperative that all students interested in music scholarships apply to the scholarship committee by the scheduled deadlines. Contact Dr. Tom Bergeron (503-838-8802 or berge@wou.edu) for scholarship guidelines and application, or select the following files to download that reflect your current status and eligibility:
What can you do with an music degree?
The degree options in music at Western Oregon University provide a foundation in theory, aural skills, solo and ensemble performance, and music history. Students broaden their musical knowledge by pursuing areas of emphasis, including applied performance lessons, conducting, composition, arranging, electronic music, and jazz studies. Those graduating with these degrees find employment in the music industry, music journalism, performance, studio music instruction, church music, the entertainment industry, or community music. It also provides an excellent foundation for further scholarly study in music and 5th year certification programs in music education. Select any of the following three areas to get specific information, degree plans, and application requirements:
Vocal Ensembles
Concert Choir | Chamber Singers | Soulstice: Vocal Jazz Ensemble
Instrumental Ensembles
Symphony Orchestra | Instrumental Chamber Ensembles
Wind Ensemble | Western Hemisphere Orchestra: Jazz Ensemble
There are 8 full-time and 18 part-time faculty in the music department. Specialities include: composition studies, choir, ethnomusicology, instrumental music, piano studies, music history, music technology, vocal studies and more.