College of Arts and Humanities
Music Performance
Bachelor of Music | Major
Bachelor of Music in Music Performance—Keyboard Specialization
The Music Performance, BM – Keyboard Specialization is designed for students passionate about developing their skills as pianists and organists.
Our program focuses on elevating your technical proficiency, musical expression, and performance artistry. With individualized instruction, opportunities to perform, and a curriculum tailored to keyboard musicianship, this degree prepares you for a career as a performer, accompanist, or music educator. Whether your goal is performing on stage, collaborating with other musicians, or teaching the next generation of pianists, let this program be the foundation of your success.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Music
At the Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Music Department Website
As a music major at CWU, you’ll join an applied studio tailored to your instrument or voice, with options including piano, percussion, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba, euphonium, and voice.
Core Courses
Music Theory
- MUS 144 - Theory 1
- MUS 144A - Aural Skills 1
- MUS 145 - Theory 2
- MUS 145A - Aural Skills 2
- MUS 146 - Theory 3
- MUS 146A - Aural Skills 3
- MUS 244 - Theory 4
- MUS 245 - Theory 5
- MUS 246 - Theory 6
Class Piano
- MUS 152A - Class Piano I
- MUS 153A - Class Piano II
- MUS 154A - Class Piano III
Applied Music
- Individual Instruction
- MUS 300 - Recital Performance
- MUS 400 - Recital Performance
- MUS 464 - Major Applied Area (Individual Instruction)
Upper-division Music Theory
- MUS 340 - Form and Analysis
Conducting
- MUS 341 - Conducting I
- MUS 342 - Conducting II
Music History
- MUS 359 - Survey of Music in Cross-cultural Perspectives
- MUS 372 - Music History 1
- MUS 373 - Music History 2
- MUS 374 - Music History 3
Required Courses
Primary Ensembles
- Wind Ensemble
- Choir
- Chamber Choir
- Symphonic Winds
- Orchestra
- Marching Band
- Symphonic Band
- Vox Divina Soprano/Alto Choir
- Wildcat Tenor/Bass Chorus
- Chamber Orchestra
Chamber Ensembles
- Chamber Music Ensemble
- Vocal Chamber Music
- Jazz Combo
Upper-division Music Theory
- MUS 343 - Counterpoint I
- MUS 422 - Orchestration
Additional Courses
- Music Electives
- MUS 292 - Collaborative Piano Practicum
- MUS 425A - Pedagogy
- MUS 426A - Literature
- MUS 492 - Collaborative Piano Practicum
Advanced Keyboard Training
Refine your technical abilities and artistry through private lessons, masterclasses, and studio classes tailored specifically to keyboard musicians.
Collaborative Opportunities
Participate as an accompanist for vocalists, instrumentalists, and ensembles, gaining collaborative experience in diverse performance settings.
Repertoire and Interpretation
Dive deep into solo and collaborative keyboard repertoire, exploring works from Baroque to contemporary styles, while honing your interpretative skills.
Preparation for Your Career
Gain the tools and confidence needed for careers in performance, teaching, or accompanying through practical training and individualized mentorship.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Facilities
Practice and perform on top-quality grand pianos, organs, and digital instruments in our well-equipped practice rooms and performance venues.
Mentorship
Work closely with experienced faculty who are accomplished performers and educators, dedicated to helping you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Scholarships
Apply for scholarships and awards tailored to keyboard specialists, with funding to support your education and career aspirations.
Why Study Music at Central?
- Experience a wide range of music courses, from theory and history to performance and analysis, giving you a well-rounded foundation in music.
- Choose from a variety of music electives that align with your interests and goals in performance, composition, music history, and more.
- Engage with students from other artistic disciplines, such as film and theatre, to create multimedia projects that expand your experience beyond traditional music settings.
- Perform in nationally and internationally recognized ensembles led by world-renowned conductors, showcasing your talents on prominent stages around the world.
Recent Alumni Success
Performers in Professional Symphonies
University Music Professor
Private Music Instructor