Q. Where do I start?
A. Just starting your college search? Submit the Student Inquiry Form to receive more information from the Department of Music. Visit the Undergraduate Studies page to learn more about academic programs and applying to Case Western Reserve University.
Q. Can I plan a visit or attend an open house program?
A. We encourage students to schedule a campus visit with the Office of Undergraduate Admission or attend a music overview during an open house program.
Q. What is the Joint Music Program?
A. Case Western Reserve's one-of-a-kind partnership with the Cleveland Institute of Music opens the door to world-class training, blending the resources of a top research university (CWRU) and a leading conservatory (CIM) in an expansive liberal arts environment. Students from both institutions study in the same music theory, music history and elective courses, and often perform together in ensembles. Learn more about the Joint Music Program.
Q. Where can I find the audition process and audition requirements?
A. Applicants must submit a music arts supplement (portfolio in the area of music) via their applicant status portal during the university application process. Please review the application procedures here and allow enough time to meet the establish deadlines. The music arts supplement is evaluated for both for the music major and for music scholarships, and must be submitted in fulfillment of the audition requirements on the primary instrument or voice.
Q. Are music scholarships available?
A. CWRU offers two music scholarships (1st-year applicants):
- Performing Arts Scholarship: A select number of full-tuition scholarships are available to students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the performing arts and plan to major in either music, theater, or dance. All students who audition for the BA in Music or the BS in Music Education will automatically be considered for these highly competitive scholarships.
- Arts Achievement Award: We offer a limited number of $10,000 per year scholarships to students who show excellence in either music or studio art, regardless of their intended major. Students auditioning for the BA in Music or the BS in Music Education will be considered for these awards. Additionally, students who do not plan to major in music can still be considered for an Arts Achievement Award by submitting the Music Arts Supplement.
Q. What undergraduate programs are available?
A. We offer the following undergraduate degree programs:
Q. Why is the Music Education major a BS rather than a BA?
A. Generally, a BS degree offers students a more specialized curriculum in their specific major and requires more credits than a BA degree. Because the state of Ohio and the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) mandate the curriculum in music education, the degree is a BS, rather than a BA.
The Bachelor of Science in Music Education (BS) is a professional degree designed for students passionate about teaching music. This fully accredited program combines a rigorous curriculum with extensive hands-on teaching experiences to prepare you for a career as a skilled music educator. Graduates are eligible for the multi-age license in Ohio and over 40 reciprocating states.
Q. Is it possible to do a double major with Music and another subject?
A. Yes. The BA in Music is designed for students who seek to deepen their musical skills while enjoying a broad liberal arts education paired with top-tier conservatory training. This flexible program allows you to combine your musical pursuits with other academic interests through options such as a double major, dual degree, or secondary major. It's an ideal path for those preparing for advanced study in music or for professional careers in various fields.
Q. Do you need to pass an audition to declare the minor in music?
A. Students can declare a minor in music or participate in ensembles/lessons without passing an audition. However, all students applying for the Arts Achievement Award must submit a Music Arts Supplement. All submissions received by February 1 will be considered for this music scholarship.
Q. What performance opportunities exist for non-majors?
A. Even if you’re not a music major, you can still get involved in our vibrant music community. You can join ensembles, add a minor in music, or take recommended classes. All students are welcome to participate in ensembles or take lessons with CIM faculty (please note that instructional fees apply).
Q. What is the Center for Popular Music Studies?
A. The Center for Popular Music Studies is dedicated to advancing scholarship and education in the history and significance of popular music. Through collaborations with institutions in Cleveland and globally, the Center fosters a vibrant academic community that explores the cultural impact of popular music.
Our program offers specialized topics courses, applied music study (pop vocals, drum set, guitar, composition), and a Popular Music Ensemble. Many of our students also form small jazz combos or chamber groups to focus on contemporary or popular music outside of the traditional band/choir/orchestra requirements. We have several students who have gone on to careers in popular music and many who have taken advantage of the outstanding local opportunities in jazz music.
Q. Are there any music theater opportunities at CWRU?
A. The Department of Music does not offer a formal program in musical theater. However, students interested in musical theater often participate in Footlighters, a student-run campus organization that presents a musical production each semester. Many music majors audition for stage roles, serve as directors, or perform in pit orchestras. Students with a strong interest in musical theater should also explore opportunities provided by the Department of Theater.
Q. What is Historical Performance Practice?
A. Historical Performance Practice (HPP) refers to the study of how music was performed in earlier centuries (mostly, the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods1). The HPP program is grounded in the philosophy that outstanding historical performers must also be excellent historians and researchers. Students receive high-level performance training combined with rigorous academic study. This includes private lessons with renowned faculty and visiting artists, participation in a variety of ensembles from Medieval to Romantic, enrollment in musicology classes and targeted HPP seminars, and preparation of lecture recitals under the guidance of a faculty advisor. This comprehensive approach deepens students' understanding of the repertoires they perform and their historical contexts.Undergraduate students with an interest in this area are welcome to audition on a period instrument/voice, and incorporate applied study, early music ensembles, and targeted HPP courses into their curriculum.
1Our expanded coverage of music studied in this way includes the Classical and Early Romantic periods.
Don't see your question(s) answered here? Submit a Prospective Undergraduate Student Inquiry to receive more information from the Department of Music.