Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
The Bachelor of Music is a specialized degree where over two-thirds of the coursework focuses on musical studies. Aspiring musicians audition as singers or instrumentalists, committing to 3-4 years of private instruction (varies by focus area), involvement in ensembles for most of their academic career, and presenting at least one performance recital alongside intensive music classes.
At James Madison University, students receive conservatory-quality training while benefiting from the diverse offerings of a comprehensive liberal arts institution. Music majors can specialize in one of six tracks: performance, composition, music business, music teaching, jazz performance, or musical theater. Alumni from the School of Music graduate with the skills to convert their expertise into meaningful contributions - whether through educating, performing, directing, investigating, or innovating, they create tangible change in communities worldwide.