Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Music Performance
Work towards your career as a Professional Performer with experienced, active, and award-winning faculty who are committed to providing professional-level experiences and opportunities.
Be Impossible
to Ignore
Degree Type: Bachelor of Music
Total Credits: 120
Outcome: Freelance Performer, Graduate School
Format: On-campus
Program
Overview
Music Performance majors focus on private study, solo performance, and ensemble participation alongside core musicianship and general studies courses. The degree program concludes with specialized literature and pedagogy courses and a senior recital.
Who This
Program Is For
Professional Performers
Students who are interested in performing music freelance or with professional organizations such as symphony orchestras and choirs.
Music Teachers in Higher Education
Students who graduate from WLU with a Music Performance degree are prepared to enter graduate study in music and work towards Masters and Doctoral degrees.
Private Studio Teachers
Graduates are equipped to teach in, or start their own, privately owned teaching studios.
What
You’ll Learn
West Liberty University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music which ensures that our Music Degree programs are aligned with standards for the training of musicians. More than 600 institutions of higher learning are accredited members of NASM.
Private Study
Leads to mastery as a vocalist or instrumentalist in one or more musical styles.
Core Musicianship
- Music Theory and Ear Training courses introduce and reinforce essential musical constructions and skills.
- Music History and Technology courses provide essential competencies and historical context.
Literature, Pedagogy, and Capstone
- Students will learn the specific literature and pedagogical techniques of your instrument or voice.
- A public senior recital is presented to demonstrate growth and ability as a performer.
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum is focussed on private applied study with a master teacher alongside core musicianship studies and general education requirements.
Program Structure
Music Core
Applied Study
Ensemble Participation
Literature, Pedagogy, and Capstone
General Education
Required Prerequisites Include:
- Musicianship, Music Theory, and Ear Training courses must be passed with a minimum grade of C in order to progress to the next course in the sequence
- Private Lessons progress through Levels according to growth
Admission Requirements
Students interested in studying Music Performance must fill out the Online Application for Music Scholarships (OAMS) to start the process of admission. The process includes a no-stress audition followed by some discussion with the faculty about a student’s background and career goals. We are a caring and supportive group of faculty, so students and parents can be assured that the scholarship and audition process is designed to be straightforward and positive.
Career &
Outcomes
Due to our unique partnerships with organizations like the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra and Wheeling Winds, our Performance Majors have special access to professional players and performance opportunities. Upon graduation, our students are prepared to
- Continue study at the graduate level.
- Professional performer – choir, orchestra, solo, chamber
- Private teaching – freelance or full-time
- University Professor (with terminal degree in Music)
- Work as a freelance performer.
- Work as a teacher of private music lessons.
Intensive private study on your instrument or voice, leads to mastery.
Admission
Requirements
Requirements:
Admission to the Music Performanceprogram is based on your University Application and an Audition.
Auditions can be completed by submitting a video link, or done in person either on campus, or during a visit to your school.
Click here for Audition Information and Registration.
Audition and Application Deadline
Students are encouraged to Audition as early as possible to maximize their chances for Scholarships.
Students who Audition and are accepted into the Music Program are guaranteed a minimum $2000/year Housing Waiver for Four Years. Additional Scholarships are available based on the Audition, GPA, test scores, and eligiblity to receive Scholarships from the WLU Foundation (see available Foundation Scholarships here).
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid &
Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps To
Enrollment
Step 1:
Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2:
Audition Information and Registration
Questions? Contact the Department Chair
Dr. Matthew Harder, Chair
Department of Music & Theatre
West Liberty University
mharder@westliberty.edu
304-336-8296
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.