Music

Music

What is Music?
This broad major is intended to orient you to music as a whole. You will focus on the study and appreciation of music and other performing arts media. You may learn about the historical evolution of music and the development of musical instruments. You may also learn to play a musical instrument, compose your own works, and to critique performances of others. You will gain a greater appreciation of how music functions as an important part of society.

In keeping with the aims of a liberal education, the music department offers all students opportunities to expand their understanding of music and its place in society. Students actively engage diverse musical materials in a variety of contexts. In ensembles and private lessons, students mature as singers or instrumentalists, better understanding music by performing it. In courses, students develop critical skills for experiencing, creating and using music effectively and intelligently. The department offers both a major and a minor in music, and provides all students with ways of participating in music. We emphasize collaborative and interdisciplinary study. Many music classes include work in the Newell Center for Arts Technology, where students learn to use digital technology to compose and perform music, to design sound for theatrical productions and to create multimedia works. Special topics courses focus on particular composers, genres or regions of the world, and typically involve extensive study of scores and recordings from the music library.

Working in Music
Characteristics and Skills Necessary for Success

• Interest in all kinds of music and using music to express an idea or emotion
• Good ear for pitch and sound
• Disciplined in your work habits
• Enjoy performing in front of others
• Able to accept criticism and use it as a means to enhance your ability
• Ability to express yourself well, both orally and in writing

Click HERE for a table on Career Areas, Employers, and Strategies for Employment

Sample Job Titles

Composer Musician Conductor   Singer Music Teacher Music Director Sound Technician Recording Engineer Disc Jockey Instrument Repairer/Tuner

Learning More About Music
Visit the Career Services office and check out our Career Resource Library

• Great Jobs for Music Majors
  • Visit the SLU Global Studies Department website
• Check out Music course descriptions in the Catalog
• Talk with a professor in Music about the major. Click here for a list of possible questions to ask.
• Perform an informational interview with a professional in the field. Click here for information on how to find a professional, contacting them, and a list of possible questions.
• Get connected with SLU alum in the field through SAINTSLink, participate in Shadow-a-Saint or complete an Internship.

Additional Resources

• Professional Associations
  • *National Association for Music Education – Careers in Music
  • American Federation of Musicians
  • Women in Music National Network
  • American Music Therapy Association
  • Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association
  • National Music Publishers' Association
  • American Music Conference


• Occupational Outlook Information
  • Musicians, Singers, and Related Workers
  • Teachers – Postsecondary
  • Teachers-Elementary, Middle and Secondary
  • Arts, Entertainment and Recreation Industry Guide


• Miscellaneous Career Information
  • Spotlight on Careers
  • *Artistshouse Careers in Music
    Music Professions from ThinkQuest
  • Music Business Solutions
  • Berklee Careers in Music
  • Performing Arts Career Guide


• Job Postings
  • Art Opportunities
  • Music Jobs USA
  • MyMusicJob.com
  • Applause - Careers in Musi

Related Majors and Minors at SLU
Performance and Communication Arts