Bachelor of Arts - Music - Music History and Literature

Program Description

As music majors, students will learn about music, its history, its cultural impact, and its performance practices. They'll need to select a concentration in either Applied Studies, Music History & Literature, Music Composition, or Sound Recording Technology. They should also seriously consider adding an academic minor to define their career path in addition to a BA in Music.

Their small setting adds up to big opportunity. Here, the student is not just another talented musician trying to stand out from hundreds of others; students are valued member of a family. When they first arrive on campus, they'll be assigned a faculty mentor who will guide them until they graduate. Students will get to know ONU's amazing, dedicated music professors. They are all distinguished performers who hold degrees from leading musical institutions. They will become personally invested in students' success and open doors for them.

Performance opportunities abound. They offer choral ensembles, bands, a full symphony orchestra, chamber music groups, a pit orchestra and more. Many of these groups travel nationally and internationally to places like New York City, China, Germany, Rome and New Zealand. In addition, ONU facilities can’t be beat. The Freed Center for the Performing Arts and their beautiful Snyder Recital Hall in Presser Hall are both top-notch.

Let’s face it, music is a specialized field. It takes a special blend of talent and opportunity to carve out a career. At ONU, students bring the talent and they provide the opportunity. They'll help students build a career doing what they love – making music!

This concentration offers in-depth exploration of the role of music in history and culture. In addition to Western European “Classical Canon” music, students will take courses like Non-Western Music, History of American Music, History of Jazz and African Music. They’ll learn from professors with extensive experience performing and researching music across the globe. And, they’ll even have opportunities to travel and study with professors to places like Africa, China, and Trinidad and Tobago. With a Music History and Literature concentration, students will be well-equipped for graduate school studies in Musicology, Ethnomusicology or similar field.