Frequently Asked Questions
In high school, you might identify as a music student simply by participating in an ensemble. At the college level, being a music major involves much more. In addition to ensemble participation, music majors receive private instruction each semester and take a comprehensive curriculum that includes music theory, ear training, music history, pedagogy, and specialized courses tailored to their performance area and career goals.
By the time you graduate with a music degree, you’ll be prepared to enter the professional music world with the skills, knowledge, and experience expected of a working musician.
At Austin Peay, our program emphasizes classical training. This foundation equips you with a deep understanding of music as an art form and provides the versatility to apply your training across a wide range of musical careers.
Whether or not you choose to pursue music professionally after graduation, your classical training will enable you to engage with music at a high level and adapt your skills to a variety of creative and professional settings.
The best way to answer that question is simply to give it a try. If you're considering a major in music education, look for opportunities to step into teaching roles while you're still in high school. Lead sectionals, take on leadership positions in your ensembles, volunteer at a local church or youth organization, or ask your directors if you can assist with middle school groups in your area.
If you're thinking about majoring in performance, make private lessons a priority and look for every chance to perform. Audition frequently, explore different musical styles, and challenge yourself to grow as both a soloist and ensemble player.
No matter what path you're considering, the key is to stay involved and proactive. Now is the time to explore, experiment, and learn—not just to build experience, but to discover what truly fits your interests and strengths. You’ll grow the most by doing, and if you realize your goals shift along the way, that’s part of the process.
Start by reaching out to your high school music teacher to begin private lessons on your primary instrument or voice. It’s also a great idea to enroll in music theory and ear training classes—either at your high school, if offered, or through a local community college. If those options aren’t available, don’t hesitate to ask your ensemble director for guidance or resources.
Additionally, take some time to develop basic piano skills. Piano is considered a foundational instrument for all music students, and regardless of your primary area, you'll be expected to have at least a basic level of proficiency.
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Personalized Attention: Our faculty are deeply committed to your success, offering support that goes beyond the classroom through mentorship and individual guidance.
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Exceptional Facilities: Enjoy access to state-of-the-art spaces, including our critically acclaimed recital hall, designed to elevate both practice and performance experiences.
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Distinguished Faculty: You'll study with accomplished performers and scholars who are highly respected in their fields. Our professors maintain open doors and are available to support you well beyond lesson and class time.
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Award-Winning Ensembles: Join celebrated ensembles that perform, record, and tour regularly—offering real-world experience and high-level musical collaboration.
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Affordability: Our tuition and housing costs remain competitive, and we offer generous performance-based scholarships to help support your studies.
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World-Class Guest Artists: Through our Acuff Chair of Excellence Residencies and the support of the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts, students engage meaningfully with renowned visiting artists and scholars throughout the year.
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A Supportive Community: From student organizations like NAfME and music fraternities to inclusive large and small ensembles, you'll find a welcoming “family” atmosphere that helps new students feel at home and supported from day one.
A degree in music opens doors to a wide range of career paths—both within and beyond the field of music. Our graduates are qualified to apply for any position requiring a bachelor’s degree, and many continue their studies in graduate programs in music performance, education, or even in unrelated fields such as business, law, or healthcare.
Music majors develop valuable, transferable skills that are highly regarded across industries. They are creative problem-solvers, effective project and time managers, strong collaborators, and natural leaders. Their discipline, adaptability, and dedication make them an asset in any professional setting.
Graduates from our program pursue a variety of career paths, including:
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Teaching in public or private schools
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Operating private studios
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Working in the music industry, including studio recording and production
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Arts administration and management
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Graduate study in music or other professional disciplines
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Careers outside of music, such as business, law, or medicine
In short, a music degree provides both specialized training and versatile skills that prepare students for success in a variety of fields.
APSU is proud to offer one of the most engaging and involved music education programs you will find. To learn more, visit our Music Education homepage.
Contact information for the applied (studio) faculty in your major performing area can be found here. Our faculty are very generous with their time and are always interested in helping students find the path that is right for them. To be connected directly with a faculty member in your area, fill out our information request form, and our Enrollment Coordinator will reach out to you.
Yes. There are scholarships for entering students that can range from $250 to $3000 or more (per year), depending on the student’s musical ability and the department's needs. For more information on how to audition for a scholarship, see undergraduate admissions and scholarships.