Do you feel driven to make music? Can you imagine a future that would allow you to continuously develop and share your passion? If so, a Bachelor of Arts in Music could be the right choice for you. As a music major at PLNU, you’ll dive into the realm of music history and theory while developing applied music skills in your primary performance area. You will also become well versed in the essential outlines of music literature, and explore significant non-Western musical styles.

PLNU’s music major is designed to give you flexibility, and will allow you to pursue a dual major and supplement your coursework with an area of study from another discipline, such as communication, literature, or biology.

Concentrations to fit your goals

The Music, B.A. consists of three performance concentrations – each with the goal of further preparing you personally and professionally to help pursue your individual calling in the music industry.

Vocal Performance

Students of vocal performance at PLNU are well-positioned to succeed as church soloists, choir section leaders, opera singers, and more! You will have the chance to strengthen your vocal skills and expand your range through the nearly endless opportunities to refine and perform your skills. From auditioning for solos at the annual Cider Celebration to choral internships and professional Christmas caroling, there are plenty of ways to get involved on campus and in the local community.

Piano Performance

Pianists in the Department of Music enjoy a highly collaborative environment where they can accompany choirs and worship bands, play preludes and postludes in a church setting, and even team up with instrumentalists and vocalists. Many piano performance majors also pursue a dual major in another discipline.

Instrumental Performance

PLNU’s wind, brass, strings, and percussion musicians enhance their coursework with a number of performance opportunities. You can participate in a chamber orchestra, concert band, jazz band, or even form your own string quartet. You’ll also get to play in the pit orchestra at our annual Cider Celebration, and can join worship bands in the local community.

At PLNU, our music program centers on four outcomes:

• Learning music history and theory
• Developing applied music skills in your primary performance area
• Become well-versed in the essential outlines of music literature
• Exploring significant non-Western musical styles

For information about the courses required for the Music, B.A. program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

The renowned composer George Frederic Handel once said, “I would be disappointed if I had only entertained them. I had wished to make them better.” With a degree in music, you’ll learn not only about the great Baroque composers like Handel, but how you too can leave an impact on audiences through performance. The knowledge you learn from this program will set you up for success in the performance industry, teaching, ministry, and art. 

What can you do with a music degree?

Many graduates of PLNU’s music program have gone on to be successful singers, songwriters, and performers. Others have become music or dance instructors for middle or high schools, postsecondary teachers, composers, or even sound technicians. Our graduates are known in these positions for applying their learned skills of musicianship.

Be the intersection of creativity and performance in your community and make your mark in education, production, or the arts.

With a degree in music, you’ll have the knowledge to perform and develop your passion for performance. Additionally, you’ll have the skills to help others understand the profound impact music has on those around us. This degree can set you up for success in the music industry and beyond. 

Start off on a strong note and apply to PLNU today. To learn more, get connected with one of our counselors for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.