Mission Statement

Music is one of the oldest disciplines in the liberal arts, and thus represents one of the traditional fields of knowledge. Integration with other disciplines is represented well within the department, for music brings people in contact with great literature such as drama and poetry, with dance, with historical and sociological trends, and with religious and philosophical ideas.

One of the most important contributions provided by the Music Department is the opportunity for self-expression, either individually or with others. The stimulation and enjoyment derived from music springs from study, self-examination and criticism, discipline, knowledge of other disciplines that bear upon musical interpretation, and a desire to achieve excellence. These are liberating, civilizing, sensitizing influences upon humanity in any age and in any place; they help prepare students for rich and rewarding lives.

Our philosophy and mission is reflected in our student learning outcomes for a major in music:

1. Students will be able to demonstrate growth in technical proficiency and artistic expression on their principal instrument/voice.
2. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of essential theoretical and structural concepts in music.
3. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of fundamental stylistic elements present in various music genres, correlating them with their historical, cultural, and/or social significance.
4. Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to seek and achieve professional performance or teaching opportunities/scholarly publication.

Music education students will have these additional learning outcomes:

1. Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills for teaching music to K-12 students in developmentally appropriate ways and across a variety of classroom and ensemble settings.
2. Students will be able to demonstrate effective management of music classrooms and instruction.
3. Students will be able to demonstrate proficiency in utilizing technology for music teaching.

The Music Department offers courses for a broad range of students—from those who aspire to a musical career to those who wish to develop their avocational interests in music. Membership in all performing ensembles and opportunities for private music lessons are open to all students regardless of major. Albion has an excellent library of books, musical scores, recordings and stereo listening equipment—all available for student use. Albion College is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

The Music Department offers three music curricula:

• Music major
• Music major with performance emphasis
• music major with music education emphasis

Music Major

Our approach to music bridges disciplines, just like the art of music itself. Choose a pathway of study that matches your interests and goals.

Music Major