Music Major with Instrumental Performance Concentration (B.M.)

The Bachelor of Music with a major in music and a concentration in instrumental performance is for students who want to become professional performers and as a way to prepare students for a graduate studies. Students receive one-to-one instruction with our superb music faculty and aim for the highest performance goals and professionalism.

Our unique program also allows for secondary study on additional instruments (especially helpful for woodwind doublers, percussion, and low brass majors). UNG classroom instruction has low student-to-teacher ratio and professors make themselves available to assist students to succeed in their development.

Students perform in our large ensembles (orchestra and band) as well as have opportunities to grow through chamber music experiences each semester. These ensembles are coached by faculty and include multiple performance opportunities.

In addition, UNG regularly hosts guest artists from around the world to engage and inspire UNG students. Students will have the opportunity to work with these artists in master classes and workshops as well as hear them perform live on our campuses.

Degree Type

Bachelor of Music

Campus Availability

*Students can start at the Gainesville Campus and transfer to the Dahlonega Campus to complete the Bachelor of Music degree.

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How to Become a Music Major at UNG

Apply to UNG. Learn how to apply.
Once you are accepted at UNG, you must successfully complete an audition to start your journey earning this degree from the music department.
Find the dates and specific requirements for your audition.
- Auditioning automatically places you in consideration for music scholarships

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Experience Our Music Major Program

This program offers an experience which is individual and adapted to your specific entrance level needs, gifts, and learning style. This may include work on multiple instruments/concentrations and a variety of ensembles. In support of that goal, the degree offers you access and opportunity through office hours, studio classes, master classes, and extra performances.

The music department has roughly an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio

We have nationally and internationally recognized faculty who are active performers, clinicians, and teachers

Participate in engaging recitals, lectures and master classes by renowned guest artists

Why Music Major with Instrumental Performance at UNG

The music program focuses on undergraduate education with multiple opportunities to perform. From general, divisional, and solo recitals to solo appearances with one of the instrumental ensembles, you will have the opportunity for frequent and various performance experiences within the program.

The arts-rich environment of the North Georgia region provides students ample opportunity to perform for highly supportive live audiences, cultivating a strong sense of accomplishment and motivating students to pursue high artistic goals.

We support secondary study to enhance your full array of knowledge and make you more marketable as a performer.

What Your Journey Could Look Like

Your First Year

In your first year, you will begin foundational studies in music with courses in Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Class Piano. You will also begin studies in your performance medium, with a focus on building a foundation of basic technical skills, practicing skills and strategies, and appropriate repertoire. Students will also have several opportunities to perform on student recitals.

Reach out to Academic Advising for guidance on your curriculum options.

Sophomore Year

You will continue to deepen your expertise in music with continued study in foundational courses including music history. You will continue your applied studies, focusing on the development of higher technical skills, scales studies and other skills necessary to pass the barrier exam, and an increase in repertoire length and difficulty.

Junior Year

At this point, you will a more in-depth study in your performance area with courses in pedagogy and literature. You will also work on the skills necessary to build a solo recital program culminating in the presentation of your junior recital.

Senior Year

During this year, you will be finishing your musical studies as you prepare to graduate. You will also, with the help of your applied teacher, develop, prepare, and perform your senior recital.

Ensemble Opportunities

Connect and engage with other musicians at UNG! The Department of Music has a variety of ensembles on the Dahlonega and Gainesville Campuses. Joining an ensemble will provide you with plenty of performing opportunities and will allow you to explore and advance your musicianship. If you are interested in challenging yourself and refining your musical skills, explore our music ensembles.

Instrumental Ensembles

Wind Ensemble
Sinfonietta
Jazz Band
Golden Eagle Band
Low Brass Collective
Percussion Ensemble
Piano Ensemble
Symphonic Band
Chamber Orchestra

Vocal Ensembles

University Singers
Le Belle Voci
Patriot Choir
Music Theatre Workshop
University Chorale

Define Your Own College Experience

College life isn't just about academics. It's about the relationships you make, the experiences you have, and the new things you can discover not just about yourself, but about the world around you. UNG provides many opportunities on each campus and beyond to help you explore your interests and find new passions.

Feed Your Wanderlust

Travel and work toward your degree at the same time. There's a fun study abroad program for any major on almost any continent.

Study Abroad

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Sign-up for an adventure trip, rent camping equipment, or climb to new heights on the Pine Valley Ropes Course.

Outdoor Pursuits

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At UNG, you're not alone. You have access to licensed therapists and other mental health resources to support your well-being.

Student Counseling

Where Can the Instrumental Performance Concentration Lead You?

The Instrumental Performance Concentration of the Bachelor of Music Degree will prepare you for a career as a professional performer, studio teacher, to succeed in graduate music study, and provide a pathway to teaching in higher education. You will receive one-on-one instruction with our nationally recognized artist faculty who will help you achieve the highest levels performance and professionalism. Students may also have interest in:

Instrument pedagogy
Church Music Director
Conducting
Music Historian/Musicologist

Ethnomusicology
Arts Administration
Ensemble Management
Non-profit music organizations

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