Briar Cliff University - The Catholic Franciscan Learning Place

Music

Bachelor of Arts

The music major focuses on voice, piano, and choral conducting. All music majors get to participate in at least one performing ensemble (Cliff Singers, Chamber Choir, Jazz Ensemble, or liturgical ensembles) during each term, and the music department facilitates abundant opportunities to develop musicianship through performances in recitals and seminars, theoretical analysis, acquiring familiarity with musical styles throughout history, listening experiences, studies in keyboard skills, conducting and effective choral rehearsal techniques, and information technologies.

Music majors are to register for recital attendance each semester of enrollment and are required to attend all music performances given by faculty and students, on and off campus. Music majors must pass the piano proficiency exam by the end of the second full year of study in order to continue in the program as a music major.  The proficiency exam in piano includes demonstrating the ability to perform vocal exercises, scales, chord progressions, choral score reading, harmonization, transposition, and the performance of vocal accompaniments. A senior recital or senior project, approved by the music faculty, must also be completed before graduation.