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Music for Non-Majors

Students of all majors benefit from the programs in the music department.

The music department welcomes all Valparaiso University students. Practicing musicians will find many opportunities to develop their talents, while the department’s concert offerings and general education courses will also help nonmusicians deepen their musical appreciation.

Creative Inspiration

The entire Valparaiso University community benefits from the department’s busy concert calendar. Each year, Valpo welcomes a diverse group of visiting performers, allowing students to develop their listening acuity — and enjoy incredible art. Concerts are almost always free with a Valpo student ID. Get Tickets »

Performance Opportunities

Students of any major can participate in Valpo’s musical ensembles, including the most selective. The community of performers is enriched by the participation of future nurses, engineers, sculptors, and teachers.

“Major” ensembles require an audition, and rehearsals are three to six hours each week. Participation in each of these ensembles earns students one credit per semester. “Minor” ensembles grant .5 credits per semester and meet with their coaches/directors one or two hours each week. Learn More »

Studio Lessons

Studio instruction provides students a chance to hone their performance skills, with individual feedback and targeted instruction. A semester of performance study includes 14 lessons. First priority is given to students who are majoring or minoring in the music department, but in many cases, lessons are available to students of other majors. Learn More »

Music Coursework

Valpo’s rich music curriculum is open to non-majors, although core courses like MUS 163, Music Theory I, require students to have acquired certain musical skillsMUS 101, Introduction to Music, introduces the basic forms and styles of musical art and may be used to fulfill the Humanities: Fine and Performing Arts component of the general-education requirements. University Catalog  »

Students who want to pursue focused study in music might consider adding the 18-credit minor in music.

Extracurricular Ensembles

Student musicians can also benefit from Valpo’s many extracurricular music groups:

  • Crusader Pep Band performs a wide variety of music to enhance the atmosphere of athletic events.
  • Handbell Choir performs in the Chapel of the Resurrection at select services throughout the academic year.
  • Matins Choir performs psalms at the Wednesday morning prayer service in the Chapel of the Resurrection.
  • Sweetwine covers contemporary Christian artists in an acoustic style and goes on tours to share the gospel and God’s love through music.

Learn More »