This degree provides interactive performance training in either voice or instrument. These emphases are backed by a rich variety of coursework in theory, ear training, music history, and musical genres. The emphasis in Voice requires a demonstration of proficiency in French, German, or Italian.
This program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM)
Can you see yourself on a stage receiving a standing ovation for your musical talent? It’s with good reason that music is called the universal language. For most of us, it’s a never-ending inspiration—the soundtrack of our lives. If you’re inspired to compose a life in music, then one of our programs could be the perfect prelude.
We provide a thriving environment for performance, study, creation, and work to help you develop into a well-rounded musician and equip you to become an accomplished performer. You will receive intensive private instruction with faculty musicians, plenty of performance experience, and strong academic preparation for traveling your musical path. The defining activity of your time in the School of Music will be performance. Through performance experience, you’ll develop poise and confidence and learn problem-solving skills transferable to other disciplines.
Note: Note: If you want to major in Performance, you must apply and be accepted to the School of Music’s program in addition to being admitted to the university.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 - 129 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
| Emphasis Required | An emphasis is required for this major. |
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the Bachelor of Music Performance degree program is to prepare students as performers in a variety of settings, along with developing skills as teaching artists and musician-entrepreneurs. Students are also prepared for further study at the graduate and/or professional level.
Student Learning Outcomes
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
This major requires 88 - 97 units distributed as follows:
Take at least the following 88 - 97 units. Courses with a prefix of MUS or MUP must be completed with a Grade of "C" or better.
Core Requirements (42 units)
Emphasis Requirement - Select one (46 - 55 units)
Vocal Emphasis (0 units)
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or liberal studies requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.