Students pursuing a major outside of music are welcome to add a minor in music—no audition required.
For those who do not major or minor in music but wish to stay musically engaged on campus, there are several opportunities:
- Join an Ensemble
Participate in music ensembles open to all CWRU students, regardless of major. Ensembles are a great way to stay active musically and connect with others who share your interests. - Take Private Lessons
Study with expert instructors through the Joint Music Program. Instructional fees apply. Beginners are encouraged to begin with group classes in piano, voice, or guitar (a required two-part sequence) before advancing to private lessons. - Explore Elective Courses
Choose from a wide range of music courses designed to fit your interests and schedule. Many are open to all students, no prerequisites required.
Browse recommended courses for minors and non-majors, learn more about ensemble participation, and find out how to enroll in private lessons or group classes.
Admission
While the music minor does not require an entrance audition, incoming first-year students applying for the Arts Achievement Award must submit a Music Arts Supplement with their CWRU application.
Learn more about the process: Undergraduate Applications
Program Requirements
The music minor requires 15.00 credit hours, distributed as follows:
- MUTH 111: Elements of Music Theory I (3.00 credits)
- MUTH 112: Elements of Music Theory II (3.00 credits)
- MUHI or MUED courses (6.00 credits)
- MUHI, MUED, MUAP, or MUEN courses (3.00 credits)
- Total Credit Hours: 15.00
a MUAP and MUEN courses taken for credit can be used in any combination to fulfill this requirement.
View the full list of course requirements and a sample plan of study: Music Minor – General Bulletin
Ensembles (MUEN)
The Department of Music is pleased to offer a variety of traditional and contemporary music ensembles to students across all academic disciplines, as well as qualified community members. Auditions take place the first week of the semester.
Group Classes for Beginners (MUSP 100 + 130)
Learn fundamental skills and techniques, develop the ability to play solo or in an ensemble, and connect with your peers! This course is intended for undergraduate non-music-major students with little or no previous musical experience seeking instruction in either piano, voice or guitar. Taught by Cleveland Institute of Music instructors and made available by the Joint Music Program.
Secondary Private Lessons for Non-Majors (MUAP 131)
All current CWRU students can take applied music lessons for academic credit through the Joint Music Program with Cleveland Institute of Music faculty members.
- Students with little or no prior experience in guitar, piano, or voice must first take the corresponding Group Music Class for Beginners before enrolling in secondary lessons.
- Students must have a basic foundation for reading music or complete MUTH 103 or MUTH 104 before enrolling in secondary lessons.
- Begin lessons for 1.00 credit units and then discuss increasing to 2.00 credit units with your instructor.
Advising and Student Resources
Current music minors and non-majors should review departmental policies, and advising tools on the Student Resources page.
Questions about transfer credits or eligible course substitutions? Contact the Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies in Music.