Music Major with Musical Arts Concentration (B.M.)

UNG's Bachelor of Music with a major in music and a concentration in musical arts takes a liberal arts approach to the study of music allowing for a broad exploration of the field without a strict focus on performance or music education.

In addition to music study, students will take an elective course of study outside of music which can include areas such as business, technology, psychology, and computer science. Many minors or double majors are viable to create a multi-faceted career track.

The musical arts concentration is ideal for students who may want to prepare for graduate study or academic careers in a non-performance related fields such as musicology, ethnomusicology, music theory & composition, or music therapy.

This program can prepare students for a variety of professional careers in music such as composing & arranging, music production & recording, music publishing, music business, and other wide-ranging areas of the music and arts industry.

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 the Music Major with Musical Arts

Our music programs focus on undergraduate education that allow you to have multiple opportunities to perform that they may not receive at other programs. From general, divisional, and solo recitals to solo appearances with one of the ensembles, the arts-rich environment of North Georgia provides highly supportive live audiences, cultivating a strong sense of accomplishment and motivating students to pursue high artistic goals.

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

What Your Journey Could Look Like

Your First Year

Along with the core curriculum courses, you will begin foundational courses in Music Theory, Aural Skills, and Class Piano. You will also begin one-on-one applied studies on your primary instrument and participate in one or more of the many ensembles offered by the department. In addition, you will start taking courses in the core curriculum that will set the foundation for a diverse educational experience.

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

Sophomore Year

You will continue to deepen your expertise in the foundations of music and performance and will begin exploring classes that are specific to your career goals in the field. You will also select your secondary course of study outside of music with the help of your advisor.

Junior Year

At this point, you will start focusing more on upper-level music electives and liberal arts courses related to your interests. These will prepare you to design and embark upon a meaningful capstone project in your senior year. In addition, you will present your junior level public recital on your principal instrument.

Senior Year

During this year, you will be working primarily in your elective and liberal arts course of study in your chosen field. In addition, you will be developing and creating your senior capstone project, which will focus heavily on your path of study.

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.

SMMC Staff working with student — Make Your Money Count

Take control of your personal finances. Attend budgeting workshops, make a financial action plan or connect with a money mentor.

Financial Well-being

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

student in counseling session — We're Here for You

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 This Musical Arts Concentration Lead You?

Students who have pursued this pathway are regularly accepted into prestigious graduate programs for further study and often receive graduate assistantship offers.

Use the career insights tool to explore different opportunities related to this degree program. Learn about average salary and discover the skills you need to get the job you want.