Department of Music | Case Western Reserve University

String students rehearsing with CWRU sweaters

Perfectly Attuned

Case Western Reserve's strategic partnership with the Cleveland Institute of Music offers world-class training in music performance, leveraging the resources of a major research university and a leading conservatory. Students study music in University Circle, a vibrant community recognized as one of the best arts districts in America (USA Today)!

Joint Music Program

MuEd faculty and students at Midwest 2022

Undergraduate Degree Programs

The Music (BA) degree provides students the flexibility and academic freedom to combine musical study with another discipline through a double major, dual degree, or secondary major. The Music Education (BS) degree is tailored to the needs of outstanding musicians preparing for a professional career as a school music educator, leading to an initial teaching license.

Undergraduate Studies

Prof Daniel Goldmark meeting with students in class

Graduate Degree Programs

Our graduate programs encompass degrees in historical performance practice (MA/DMA), music education (MA/MAL/PhD), and musicology (PhD), offering a holistic learning experience in a diverse and supportive environment. Students generate knowledge through research guided by leading scholars.

Graduate Studies

Ensembles and Lessons

Performing in music ensembles or taking applied music lessons offers a rewarding educational and artistic experience to students across all majors. Students develop new skills, pursue personal passions, and build community.

Participation Information

Photo inside Maltz Performing Arts Center

Performing Arts in University Circle

Cleveland's artistic community is vast, celebrated, and collaborative! Find yourself on a vibrant campus in the heart of University Circle, a culturally robust and energetic neighborhood. The Silver Hall Concert Series at the Maltz Performing Arts Center (pictured here) showcases performances by Department of Music ensembles and local musicians.

Creating the Center >>

From Cartoons to Classrooms: How One Song Sparked a Career in Musicology

Daniel Goldmark’s passion for music began with a cartoon tune. Now, as a CWRU musicologist, he explores the overlooked sounds of pop culture and media.

From The Daily

2025 Concerto Competition Results

Congrats to Zoe Buff (violin) and Shreya Girish (flute), who earned solo spots with the Symphony Orchestra or Symphonic Winds for the 2025/26 season!

Nicholas Taylor to Join Colorado Symphony as Manager of Orchestra Personnel

Nick is completing degrees in Music and Business Management, combining performance and leadership experience to mange operations, support musicians, and enhance audience engagement.

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Shreya Girish Wins 2nd Prize in Tuesday Musical Competition

Congrats to Shreya Girish (flute) for earning Second Prize and a $1,500 scholarship in the 2025 Tuesday Musical Competition! She’ll perform in the Winners Concert on May 4 at the University of Akron.

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Greg Banaszak Signs with Van B Korea Arts Management

Greg Banaszak, saxophone faculty in the Joint Music Program, has signed with Van B Korea Arts Management, expanding his global impact as a performer and educator.

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Ohio Music Education Association Professional Development Conference

Check out the full list of CWRU presentations and performances here. We look forward to connecting with educators and music professionals at OMEA (Feb 6-8)! Stop by and say hello!

OMEA Schedule