Fine Tune your Career in Music

Refine your musical skills through our program and join our community of musicians.

Become a part of our internationally recognized music program. Our Bachelor of Music degree advances your knowledge in music theory, history, pedagogy, performance and more. Receive one-on-one instruction from our renowned faculty as you develop your skills and build your repertoire. Whether you aspire to teach or perform, our degree prepares you for a variety of careers. Join our community of recognized musicians and apply today! You can also learn more about the Music Department at our main department webpage.

Where It Is Offered Commerce
Duration 4 years
Foreign Language No foreign language credits required
Delivery Face-To-Face
Total Credit Hours 127 hours
Thesis Requirements No thesis required
Choir performing on stage wearing formal attire.
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

SEE YOURSELF SUCCEED WITH A DEGREE IN Music

Young male musician wearing formal attire
Join Our Community

You'll discover a vibrant community of talented musicians who are dedicated to fostering world-class ensembles, bands and chorales. Our programs are recognized internationally with students competing and performing overseas.

Music professor teaching a class
Learn from the Best

You'll have opportunities to participate in studio recitals and master classes taught by renowned professors and nationally recognized guest musicians. Our faculty are dedicated to improving your music appreciation, comprehension and performance.

Three young men standing in hallway with large instrument in case
Find Your Program

With over 300 majors, the Department of Music offers top-notch performing experiences while still providing one-on-one mentorship. You'll have many opportunities to participate in recitals and performances.

Music majors playing together in a symphony
Career Readiness

Thinking critically and communicating effectively. That's what employers are looking for. The College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts is dedicated to providing you the knowledge and resources for exceling in the workforce.

NASM Accreditation
NASM Accredited

The Department of Music at Texas A&M University-Commerce is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.

Steinway designation
All-Steinway School

Texas A&M University-Commerce has the distinction of being an All-Steinway school, with a Spirio Technology designation.

Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Focus Your Passion

The BM program is for those who wish to specialize in music long term. Our BA program takes a general and well rounded approach to your education. Once you’ve made that choice, the Department of Music offers two different tracks towards earning your bachelor’s degree. Discover what option works best for your career interest and goals.

Music Education

Pass your love of music to the next generation. Our Music Education track equips you with the pedagogical skills to teach at the elementary, secondary and collegiate levels.
Credit Hours: 41

View Full Curriculum

Music Performance

Engage in a wide variety of performance opportunities. This track develops your technical skills and abilities through large ensembles, chamber playing, solo performances and more.
Credit Hours: 41

View Full Curriculum

Piano Pedagogy

Develop essential skills for your piano teaching and performance craft. You will not only prepare repertoire for a solo recital but will receive extensive guidance and hands-on experience teaching piano in individual and group settings.
Credit Hours: 41

View Full Curriculum
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Faculty Spotlight

Daniel Kelly, DMA

Daniel Kelly, a native of Charleston, SC, joined Texas A&M University-Commerce in the fall of 2010 after serving on the faculty of Indiana State University and the University of Southern Mississippi. Dr. Kelly is a member of the Dallas Wind Symphony and has performed with the Plano Symphony, Northeast Texas Symphony, Mobile Symphony and Opera […]

More About Daniel

Ryan Yahl, D.M.

Dr. Ryan M. Yahl is the Assistant Director of Bands at A&M-Commerce.  He serves as the Assistant Director of The Pride Marching Band and conductor of the Concert Band.  In addition, Dr. Yahl teaches undergraduate conducting, an orientation course for freshman music majors, and music technology. He recently completed the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in […]

More About Ryan

Phillip Clements

Phillip L. Clements is the Director of Bands and Instrumental Activities at Texas A&M University-Commerce. In this role, Mr. Clements serves as conductor of the Wind Ensemble, teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in conducting and music education, and guides all activities within the instrumental area. Prior to his appointment in 2008, Mr. Clements served on […]

More About Phillip

Randall Hooper, D.M.A.

Dr. Randall Hooper has earned a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Texas State University, a Master of Music degree in choral conducting from Baylor University where he studied with Donald Bailey, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting from Louisiana State University where he studied with Kenneth Fulton and Sara Lynn […]

More About Randall
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

What You Will Learn

A bachelor’s degree in music will offer you the opportunity to:

  • Become a part of a community of world-class musicians and scholars
  • Receive private lessons from seasoned musicians
  • Increase your knowledge in music history and theory
  • Participate in conferences, master classes and workshops
student playing keyboard with instructor observing with smile.
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Careers

Let your passion for music shape the lives of those around you. A Bachelor of Music degree prepares you for a wide variety of careers. Our alumni have achieved positions at all levels of music including band or choir director, elementary music teacher, college professors, fine arts directors, studio or private instructor and more. Many of our graduates perform in orchestras, concert and military bands. Others work as collaborative artists and soloists in international touring groups or run their own companies.

Career Possibilities

Education

  • College professor
  • Band director
  • Choir director
  • Elementary music teacher
  • Private teaching studio

Performance

  • Military bands
  • Professional orchestra
  • Collaborative and solo artists
  • International touring shows
  • Musician in rock, country and jazz bands

Other

  • Entrepreneur
  • Composer
  • Arranger
  • Music business manager
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Featured Courses

Music History MUS 323

A study of the historical development of the art of Western music from the Middle Ages through the Baroque Era. Particular attention will be given to music as an aspect of general cultural and intellectual history as well as to the evolution of musical forms and styles.

Music Technology MUS 310

The course is intended primarily for music majors at the junior or senior level. Major topics discussed in the book Experiencing Music Technology (1996) by David Williams and Peter Webster will serve as the basis for course content.

Principal Applied MUS 152

Private instruction for music majors in keyboard, voice, instruments, or composition. This course includes recitals and performance forums with teacher-directed student evaluations and instructions.

View Full Curriculum In The University Catalog
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Admission

Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Music (BM/BA) :: Program Admission Requirements US

If you are applying to be a music major or minor or applying for scholarships and admission to the ensembles as a non-music major, you must complete an audition. Music department scholarships are available and awarded based on your audition.

Deadlines

2023 Audition Dates for all Music Majors and Non-Majors

  • February 18
  • February 25 (Instrumental only)
  • March 4 (Vocal only)
  • March 11
  • April 1 (Instrumental non-majors only)

November and January early audition dates are available by request.

Other dates available upon request.

Your Path to Becoming a Lion

Step 1. Apply

Applying to the music program is a two step process. First apply to Texas A&M University-Commerce with ApplyTexas and then apply to the Department of Music in order to sign-up for an audition.

ApplyTexas Application

Submit your application through ApplyTexas.

  • Select “Create a new undergraduate admissions application”
  • Select Texas A&M University-Commerce as your “target university.”
  • Select “Music” as your “Major.”

Music Department Application

Submit the Music Department application form

Instrumental

Vocal

Piano

Step 2. Submit Documents

Official Transcripts

Contact your previous/current academic institution(s) and request that they mail the transcript to:

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
PO Box 3011
Commerce, Texas 75429-3011

For faster delivery, you may check to see if your previous/current academic institution(s) can submit an electronic version of your transcript to the Undergraduate Admissions Office. A&M-Commerce accepts SPEEDE, National Clearinghouse and Escript-Safe electronic transcripts.

Test Scores

Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

You do not need to complete the state-legislated Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment if you meet one of the following exemption criteria.

  1. Met minimum college readiness standard on the SAT or ACT
  2. Obtained the minimum required score(s) on the statewide high school STAAR EOCs Algebra II and English III exams (these are optional for high schools)
  3. Met a veteran or active military waiver (must meet specific requirements for each category)
  4. Received exemption based on earning a prior degree
  5. Received a transfer exemption (declaration by another institution)
  6. Completed prior college-level coursework

Students are responsible for providing proof of exemption and will be considered assessment required until documentation is provided of state exemption. For more information, please contact the Testing Center at [email protected].

ACT/SAT

Submit your scores using the A&M-Commerce codes 4088 (ACT) and 6188 (SAT) on act.org or collegeboard.org.

Credits by Test

College Board Advanced Placement (AP)

A&M-Commerce accepts scores on certain College Board Advanced Placement (AP) tests for credit in selected courses.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is a rigorous, 2-year, pre-university program. In compliance with SB111, TAMU-Commerce offers at least 24 hours of credit to all IB diploma candidates with subject exam scores of 4 or higher.

Music :: (BA/BM) Audition Step

Step 3. Audition

Audition Requirements

Voice
  • Sing 2 pieces: One in English and one in a Foreign Language. If you are interested in a concentration in Musical Theatre, you may perform a third piece from a Musical.
  • Sight-reading
  • Vocalization
  • Theory Diagnostic Test (For incoming Freshmen only)

Audition form

Woodwind and Brass
  • All Major Scales and a Full-Range Chromatic Scale
  • Two contrasting etudes (slow and fast) or portions of solo repertoire (lyrical and technical)
  • Sight-read a short musical example
  • Students interested in auditioning as a performance major should also be prepared to perform a movement or movements from a standard concerto, sonata or significant solo repertoire. Please contact the applied faculty member for your instrument with any questions.

Audition form

Percussion
  • Timpani:
    • One solo or etude
  • Keyboard:
    • One four-mallet solo OR One two-mallet solo or etude
    • Sight-reading a two-mallet etude
  • Drum-Set (Optional):
    • Demonstrate two-four styles
  • Snare Drum:
    • One concert style solo or etude OR One rudimental style solo or etude

Audition form

Keyboard
  • Three memorized pieces in contrasting styles (Baroque, Classical, romantic, Impressionism, 20th or 21st Century)
  • Major and minor scales (Selection)
  • Arpeggios (Selection)
  • Sight-reading

Audition info request

Back to menu

Step 4. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships

More than 70% of our undergraduate students receive FINANCIAL AID. Find out how you may be eligible for grants, loans and/or the Work Study Program.

To help you pay for your degree, a variety of SCHOLARSHIPS opportunities are available at A&M-Commerce including institutional scholarships, outside scholarships and state-funded scholarships. All scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis as funds are available, so apply as early as you can!

Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Music :: Scholarship Accordions Undergraduate

Scholarships

Music students at A&M-Commerce are afforded a wide range of scholarship options.

Music Majors

  • Performance-based scholarships are available based on the results of the auditions.
    • The amount varies depending on the student’s audition and the potential contribution to the department.
  • Housing scholarships are available and are awarded as a $500 a semester credit toward the on-campus housing bill.
  • Students must meet the eligibility requirement of the University.
  • Students must maintain a GPA of at least 2.75 for a music scholarship and a 3.00 for a housing scholarship to be renewed each semester.
  • Scholarship recipients are required to meet the ensemble and studio requirements as stated in their scholarship contract each semester.
  • Keyboard scholarship is available as an accompanist for a reasonable amount of rehearsals and performances as needed.

Non-Music Majors

  • Performance-based scholarships are available based on the results of the auditions.
    • The amount varies depending on the student’s audition and the potential contribution to the department.
  • Housing scholarships are available and are awarded as a $500 a semester credit toward the on-campus housing bill.
  • Students must meet the eligibility requirement of the University.
  • Students must maintain a GPA of at least 2.75 for a music scholarship and a 3.00 for a housing scholarship to be renewed each semester.
  • Scholarship recipients are required to meet the ensemble and studio requirements as stated in their scholarship contract each semester.
  • Keyboard scholarship is available as an accompanist for a reasonable amount of rehearsals and performances as needed.

Basketball Band

Basketball Band Scholarships are available through an audition held during the fall semester each year.

Back to menu

Step 5. Follow Up

Check your myLeo account for admission status, financial aid and scholarship info, registration, updates, and deadlines.

Back to menu
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Music (BM/BA) :: Program Admission Requirements International

If you are applying as a Performance or Music Education major, you will complete an audition. Music department scholarships are available and awarded based on your audition. Please contact the Department of Music for further information and scheduling.

Deadlines

2023 Audition Dates for all Music Majors and Non-Majors

  • February 18
  • February 25 (Instrumental only)
  • March 4 (Vocal only)
  • March 11
  • April 1 (Instrumental non-majors only)

November and January early audition dates are available by request.

Other dates available upon request.

Your Path to Becoming a Lion

Step 1. Prepare

College is the next big step in your academic journey!

Residents of foreign countries who wish to enter the university should apply to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions well in advance of the semester they plan to attend. Please note that an international student is any degree-seeking student holding a non-immigrant student visa.

All admission requirements are to be completed a minimum of three months prior to the beginning of the semester. In the case of extenuating circumstances, exceptions to this timeline may be considered on an individual basis.

Keep in mind that your transcripts must be evaluated by an independent credential evaluation agency before being considered for admission.

Step 2. Apply

Applying to the music program is a two step process. First apply to Texas A&M University-Commerce with ApplyTexas and then apply to the Department of Music in order to sign-up for an audition.

ApplyTexas Application

Submit your application through ApplyTexas.

  • Select “Create a new undergraduate admissions application”
  • Select Texas A&M University-Commerce as your “target university.”
  • Select “Music” as your “Major.”

Music Department Application

Submit the Music Department application form

Instrumental

Vocal

Piano

Step 3. Submit Documents

Official Transcripts

Complete your high school transcript through your junior year.

As an international student, you must show proof of successful completion of a course of study equivalent to that required of a U.S. citizen. Your international transcript must be evaluated by an independent credential evaluation agency before we consider you for admission to A&M-Commerce. For freshman admission, high school transcripts need only be evaluated to determine U.S. high school equivalency.

FOREIGN ACADEMIC CREDENTIAL EVALUATOR RESOURCES

Dual-credit freshmen must also submit an official transcript from the institution that offered the dual-credit classes.

Transcripts must be evaluated by an independent credential evaluation agency before a student is considered for admission.

Upon completion of the evaluation, please request the agency provide a copy to:

Texas A&M University-Commerce

Office of Undergraduate Admissions

P.O. Box 3011

Commerce, TX 75429-3011

Test Scores

Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

You do not need to complete the state-legislated Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment if one of the following exemptions applies.

  1. Met minimum college readiness standard on the SAT or ACT
  2. Obtained the minimum required score(s) on the statewide high school STAAR EOCs Algebra II and English III exams (these are optional for high schools)
  3. Met a veteran or active military waiver (must meet specific requirements for each category)
  4. Received exemption based on earning a prior degree
  5. Received a transfer exemption (declaration by another institution)
  6. Completed prior college-level coursework

Students are responsible for providing proof of exemption and will be considered assessment required until documentation is provided of state exemption. For more information, please contact the Testing Center at [email protected].

ACT/SAT

Submit your scores using the A&M-Commerce codes 4088 (ACT) and 6188 (SAT) on act.org or collegeboard.org.

Credits by Test

The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is a rigorous, 2-year, pre-university program. In compliance with SB111, TAMU-Commerce offers at least 24 hours of credit to all IB diploma candidates with subject exam scores of 4 or higher.

Language Proficiency

As an applicant, you must be adequately proficient in English to pursue a course of study at the university. A score of at least 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based or 79 internet-based on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and an official report of these scores must be submitted to the Office Undergraduate Admissions prior to admission. Please keep in mind that Education Testing Service (ETS) will not release scores that are older than two (2) years.

Undergraduate Exemptions:

  • Students who have completed Eng 1301 and Eng 1302, at a U.S. institution, with a grade of “C” or better. Students may provide a certified older score if they have been continuously studying at a U.S. college or university.
  • Students who have successfully completed the Texas International Education Consortium (TIEP’s) advanced-level program as defined in the information provided by TIEP and who are seeking admissions to our campus.
  • Students who have completed a minimum of one year of study in a Texas public high school with the completion of English III or English IV (including Advance Placement/AP) with a grade of “B” or better.
  • Students who are citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the British Virgin Island, Jamaica, United Kingdom, Ireland, Antigua, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South Africa, St. Lucia, Wales, Bahamas, Barbados, Switzerland and Canada (excluding French-speaking Quebec). Proof of citizenship must be provided such as birth certificate or passport.
  • Students who have one of the following tests and scores:
    CAE: B or Higher
    CPE: C or Higher
    AT II E: 968 or Higher
    IELTS: Overall band 6.0 or Higher
    SAT Verbal: 500 or Higher
    ACT Verbal: 19 or Higher
  • Students who have obtained one of the following foreign high school diplomas/tests/scores:

GCE, GCSE, IGCSE: C or higher in English Language
WASC, KCSE, SSCE or equivalent national exams: C or higher in English Language IB (International Baccalaureate): Grade 4 or higher in English subject

Sponsor's Statement

A Sponsor’s Statement of Support for International Student (signed by the sponsor) with a current bank statement showing a balance of at least $28,109.00 USD must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Sponsor’s statements and bank statements must be less than one year old at the time of application.

All educational and living expenses (including medical/repatriation insurance) are the responsibility of the student.

Vaccination Requirements

Texas state law requires all new students 21 years of age or younger to either receive a bacterial meningitis vaccination or meet the exemption requirements prior to the first day of their first semester. Students who fail to submit their proof of vaccination and have their vaccination approved at least 10 days prior to the first day of their first semester may not be allowed to attend classes at A&M-Commerce. Please note that failure to meet this requirement (only students 21 years of age or younger) may result in serious visa status issues.

BACTERIAL MENINGITIS VACCINATION HANDOUT

Sign International Student Agreement Form

Step 4. Audition

Audition and interview to gain acceptance to the program and be eligible for Music Department scholarships.

Audition Requirements

Voice

  • Sing 2 pieces: One in English and one in a Foreign Language. If you are interested in a concentration in Musical Theatre, you may perform a third piece from a Musical.
  • Sight-reading
  • Vocalization
  • Theory Diagnostic Test (For incoming Freshmen only)

Audition Form

Instrumental

  • All Major Scales and a Full-Range Chromatic Scale
  • Two contrasting etudes (slow and fast) or portions of solo repertoire (lyrical and technical)
  • Sight-read a short musical example
  • Students interested in auditioning as a performance major should also be prepared to perform a movement or movements from a standard concerto, sonata or significant solo repertoire. Please contact the applied faculty member for your instrument with any questions.

Audition Form

Keyboard

  • Three memorized pieces in contrasting styles (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Impressionism, 20th or 21st Century)
  • Major and minor scales and arpeggios
  • Sight-reading

Audition Info Request

Percussion

  • Snare Drum:
    • One concert style solo or etude OR One rudimental style solo or etude
  • Keyboard:
    • One four-mallet solo
    • One two-mallet solo or etude
    • Sight-reading a two-mallet etude
  • Timpani:
    • One solo or etude
  • Drum-Set (Optional):
    • Demonstrate two-four styles

Audition Form

Step 5. Obtain a Visa

After admission, the Office of International Programs (OIP) will review your documents for eligibility to receive an I-20 (F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (J-1 student). As soon as the OIP receives your admission file we will send you an email requesting some additional information and also explaining the process for issuing the I-20. We understand that you need the I-20 as quickly as possible so you can apply for the student visa, and we appreciate your patience while we review your admission and issue the I-20.

J-1 international students are required to provide proof of financial support that equals the estimated cost for one year of study at A&M-Commerce. This requirement is based on the financial support requirements for all F-1 students. These documents are bank and sponsor statements.

How to Receive an I-20 or DS-2019 Funding Requirement for Undergraduate Student

Step 6. Follow Up

Check your account for admission status, financial aid and scholarship info, registration, updates and deadlines through myLeo.

Back to menu
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Undergraduate Music Department Scholarships

Music department scholarships are available and awarded based on your audition. Please contact the Department of Music for further information.

  • Performance-based scholarships are available to music majors and non-music majors based on the results of the Department of Music audition. The amount of the award varies according to the student's audition and potential contribution to the department.
  • Housing scholarships are available in addition to performance-based scholarships. Housing scholarships are awarded as a $500.00 a semester credit toward the students on-campus housing bill.
  • Students must meet the eligibility requirement of the University to be eligibility for a music scholarship.
  • Scholarship recipients are required to meet the ensemble and studio requirements as stated in their scholarship contract each semester.
  • Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher for a music scholarship to be renewed each semester. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or higher for a housing scholarship to be renewed each semester.
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Undergraduate Program Costs

Program Costs

Tuition and fees for undergraduate students taking 12 credit hours are $4,212 for Texas residents and $9,108 for non-residents.

Tuition Calculator
Financial Aid
Scholarships
Back to menu
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

We are here to help!

Amanda Scott Academic Advisor III / EAB and Onboarding Manager
Phillip Clements Director of Bands & Instrumental Activities
Randall Hooper, D.M.A. Director of Choirs and Vocal Activities
Luis Sanchez, D.A. Professor of Music, Steinway Artist
Ryan Yahl, D.M. Assistant Director of Bands and Assistant Director of “The Pride” Marching Band
Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Contact Us

Anchor Copied! Copy a link to this section of the page

Related Degree Programs

Navigate This Page