The music performance major at Pacific University allows students to choose an emphasis in vocal or instrumental performance. Music performance students receive individual instruction in addition to their group classes, and students should expect to spend the majority of their academic career rehearsing and practicing for the many performance opportunities at Pacific University. Ensemble participation and solo recitals are essential parts of the plan of study.

Program Highlights

  • Gain a solid academic foundation built upon studies in music theory and analysis, music history from ancient to post-modern eras, and performance opportunities in both classical and jazz idioms.
  • Receive individualized performance instruction with campus faculty and adjunct instructors.
  • Enjoy a 400-seat recital hall, a piano lab with Kawai electronic units, a Mac-based MIDI lab, practice rooms with pianos, a percussion studio and rehearsal space that replicates the recital hall.
  • Perform in a wide range of ensembles, including Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, Symphonic Band, Philharmonic Orchestra, Jazz Band, the Boxer Rebellion pep band and others.
  • Travel with performance groups to locations such as Hawai‘i, New York, Washington, D.C., and Europe.

    • Courses

    The range of music courses offered at Pacific University allows any student to participate in music education and performance, regardless of skill level. Classes focus on different music genres, histories and practices, and demonstrate connections between people, music and the world around us. Music performance courses are offered in composition, voice, piano and other instruments with campus faculty or adjunct instructors from the Oregon Symphony and the greater Portland area.

    More Information

    Fact Sheet