What prior knowledge and experience should I have in order to succeed as a music major?

Every student is unique and brings individual strengths. Certain prior knowledge, however, can give a prospective student a higher chance of success in a collegiate music program. The following list shows preferred knowledge and experience for incoming music majors.

• The ability to read music.
• The ability to identify and understand basic musical elements such as key signatures, scales, rhythms, etc.
• Private instrumental or voice lessons. Preferably, a student will have taken private lessons for at least one year prior to college.
• Experience performing in an ensemble and/or choir.