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

The Bachelor of Music with a major in music and a concentration in piano performance is designed for those who want to become professional performers or collaborative pianists, as a way to prepare students for a graduate study, and for those who wish to have careers as teaching in academia or private studios. Students receive one-to-one instruction with our superb music faculty and aim for the highest performance goals and professionalism.

Students will perform in or accompany one of several large ensembles each semester and have opportunities to grow through both chamber music and collaborative experiences. These ensembles and collaborative experiences 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 with Piano Performance

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 studies in music theory and aural skills. You will start one-on-one studies in piano, developing your technical and musical foundation as well as skills and strategies for your own practice.

Students will also have several opportunities to perform including: Student General Recitals, Piano Vision Recitals, and the All-American Piano Celebration.

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 and begin more specialized study of piano with courses in keyboard musicianship and collaborative piano. You will continue your applied studies, with continued focus on performances and preparation for the barrier jury to upper division study.

Junior Year

At this point, you will probably will be exploring elements of your performance area with courses piano literature, and pedagogy. 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, the culminating performance of the program!

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.

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Where Can the Piano Performance Concentration Lead You?

The Piano Performance Concentration of the Bachelor of Music Degree will prepare you for a career as a professional performer as a soloist or collaborative pianist, studio teacher, to succeed in graduate music study, and provide a pathway to teaching in higher education.

UNG music alumni have achieved highly successful careers in performance including:

A Grammy nomination
Semi-finalist ensemble in America’s Got Talent
Completing doctoral degrees and accepting full-time positions in prestigious universities.
Established successful teaching careers in public schools and independent studios.

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.