The BM Performance degree is intended for students who exhibit exceptional talent and musical aptitude, and is designed to prepare them for careers as performers or for continued graduate-level study. Lower-division students are admitted to the performance concentration on the basis of audition. Admission to the upper-division is by a jury. These take place at the end of the sophomore year (or, for transfer students, prior to entering the junior year).
Private Instruction, Juries and Ensemble Requirement
Students in the BM Performance degree program are required to enroll in private instruction on their major instrument or voice every semester in residence. Students must pass a juried performance at the end of each semester with a minimum score of 75%.
Students are required to enroll in a minimum of one (1) major ensemble every semester in residence, and for a total of sixteen (16) ensembles: 12 major ensembles and 4 chamber or minor ensembles. In addition, to the requirements above, instrumentalists must register for one (1) semester of choral ensemble and vocalists must register for one (1) of instrumental ensemble. For more specific requirements regarding ensembles for the B.M. Voice and Instrumental concentrations, refer to the “Ensemble Requirement” clause.
Capstone Experience
Students enrolled in the BM Performance degree program must complete a Junior Recital (MUS 397, 1 unit) and a Senior Recital (MUS 491, 2 units). The Junior Recital comprises approximately 30 minutes of music, and should take place during the second semester of the junior year. The Senior Recital comprises approximately 55 minutes of music, and should take place during the student’s final semester in the program. Information about Recitals is located under the “Current Students” tab on the Department website.
