Music Performance, Viola (BM)

What is A Music Performance, Viola (BM) Degree?

The study of Music involves learning the nitty-gritty about the structure of music, how the notes are put together in artistic and creative ways, how instruments and voices blend to create various sounds and emotions, how to perform using various musical instruments, and how music varies around the world.  The majority of music majors spend a big portion of their study on improving their own performance skills as a singer or musician.  This usually culminates with a third or fourth-year recital in which the student performs for an audience.  Some students specialize in areas such as conducting or composing or developing a ministry program for a religious group, and some even learn to create music using computers.

The BM degree in Music Performance prepares students for careers in performance and studio teaching, while positioning them for graduate study in music.  Degree requirements will probably include many of the same fundamental courses for a non-performance BM degree–things like courses in music theory and practice, aural skills, music history, advanced work in music theory and history, and conducting.

For a BM degree in Music Performance, Viola, you’ll spend about 20% of coursework credits on learning advanced skills for the viola.  The practice aspect will help the student to gain a better grasp on the nuances of their performances. The Viola major may include work in a chamber ensemble as well as performance at one or two large recitals.

The video below discusses a “typical” program, so it should help regardless of which school you are considering.