College of Arts and Humanities
Music Performance
Bachelor of Music | Major
Bachelor of Music in Music Performance—Vocal Specialization
The Music Performance, BM – Vocal Specialization is tailored for singers who want to refine their vocal artistry and pursue a career in music performance.
This program focuses on advanced vocal techniques, musical expression, and stage presence. With personalized voice instruction, opportunities to perform in various chamber music ensembles, and training in diction and interpretation, you’ll be prepared for careers as a soloist, ensemble singer, or voice teacher. Whether your dream is to perform in opera, musical theater, or as a recitalist, this degree equips you with the tools and experience to succeed in the competitive world of vocal performance.
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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
Ensembles
Primary Ensembles
- Choir
- Chamber Choir
- Vox Divina Soprano/Alto Choir
- Wildcat Tenor/Bass Chorus
Chamber Ensembles
- Chamber Music Ensemble
- Vocal Chamber Music
- Jazz Combo
- Opera Workshop
- Opera Production
Secondary Ensembles
- Vocal Jazz Choir
- Vox Divina Soprano/Alto Choir
- Wildcat Tenor/Bass Chorus
- Laboratory Choir
- Opera Workshop
- Opera Production
Additional Courses
- Music electives
- MUS 240 - Diction in Singers I (Intro to IPA, Italian, Latin, English)
- MUS 241 - Diction for Singers 2 (Advanced IPA and German)
- MUS 242 - Diction for Singers 3 (Advanced IPA and French)
- MUS 425B - Pedagogy, Vocal
- MUS 426 - Literature (Studio)
- MUS 462 - Opera Production
Performance-Centered
Focus on advanced training in your chosen instrument or voice, helping you build confidence and stage presence.
Individualized Instruction
Receive one-on-one coaching from faculty members who are accomplished performers, offering personalized feedback and mentorship to hone your craft.
Diverse Ensembles
Join a variety of performance ensembles, including orchestra, band, choir, and jazz groups, to gain experience in different musical settings and styles.
Guest Artists
Benefit from masterclasses with visiting artists and guest performers, providing exposure to different techniques and performance practices.
Apply
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Financial Aid
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Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
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Mentorship
Learn from CWU’s distinguished faculty, who are both educators and experienced performers in national and international venues.
Career Ready
Whether pursuing a career in performance or continuing with graduate studies, this degree equips you with the expertise needed to succeed in highly competitive fields.
Classes
Experience a personalized education with small class sizes that allow you to get to know your professors and classmates.
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