Ryan Scherber
Assistant Professor
Director of Bands
Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies in Music Education
Lisa Huisman Koops
Professor
Head of Music Education
Coordinator of Graduate Studies in Music Education
The Music Education program at Case Western Reserve University offers a robust framework that emphasizes small class sizes, personalized faculty mentoring, practical experience, and active participation in teaching. Our dedicated faculty guide students through both undergraduate and graduate degree programs, equipping them to become proactive scholar-practitioners and leaders in the field.
Degree Programs
For graduate study, we offer several pathways:
- PhD in Music Education: Designed for individuals pursuing careers in higher education, research, or leadership within the field of music education.
- MA in Music Education: Tailored for those with an undergraduate degree in music education, aiming to further their academic and professional expertise.
- MA with Licensure in Music Education: Ideal for students with an undergraduate degree who seek both a teaching license and graduate study in music education.
- Undergraduate Students with an interest in this area of study are welcome to apply to the BS in Music Education program.
Our program is well-supported with significant funding opportunities, including competitive scholarships, tuition waivers, and graduate assistantships!
Graduate assistants play a vital role, contributing to various areas such as ensembles (bands, choirs, orchestras), research initiatives, music technology, and undergraduate music education courses.
Program Highlights
The Music Education program offers a comprehensive and dynamic educational experience, characterized by:
- Practical Experience: Work alongside internationally recognized faculty—teachers, conductors, researchers, and authors—while gaining hands-on experience in your field.
- Commitment to Excellence: Engage in a program dedicated to both scholarly and creative excellence, supporting your growth as a musician and educator.
- Substantial Podium Time: Gain significant experience conducting ensembles, with ample podium time to develop your skills leading orchestras, bands, choirs, and jazz groups.
- Supportive Community: Join a collegial and collaborative community that fosters mutual support and teamwork among scholars and educators.
- Leadership Opportunities: Take on leadership roles in our outstanding ensembles and professional development organizations.
- Integrated Music Program: Benefit from our unique partnership with the Cleveland Institute of Music, combining the resources of a major research university and a leading conservatory within a liberal arts framework.
- Exceptional Library Resources: Utilize our excellent music library, offering global resources to support your academic and musical studies.
- Advanced Technology and Resources: Enhance your learning experience with advanced technology and a dedicated music education resource center.
- NAfME Collegiate Chapter: Join an active student-led chapter of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Collegiate, dedicated to your professional development as a music educator.
- Accredited Program: Graduate with a degree from a program approved by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) and accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring a respected and recognized qualification.
Faculty and Research Areas
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Christopher Clark Matthew Garrett Benjamin Helton Kathleen Horvath Lisa Huisman Koops Nathan Kruse Ryan Scherber |
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Ensembles and Performance Opportunities
The Music Education program is fortunate to house and oversee ensembles in the three primary performance areas within the Department of Music: orchestras, bands, and choirs. The Music Education faculty strongly believe in connecting pedagogy with practice by facilitating and demonstrating quality experiences for our students. Our shared philosophy of supporting and encouraging lifelong music-making is key to our ensembles as many groups include members across campus and from the community.
Music Education students pursuing academic coursework may participate in our various music ensembles. View the Participation Information page to learn more about ensemble offerings, audition details, registration requirements, and helpful resources for students participating in musical activities.
