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Music Performance

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Overview

Students who choose Music Performance can anticipate becoming a professional musician. Music Performance graduates should be willing to work flexible hours with an income equal to that of an entrepreneur.

Music Performance students should expect to spend the majority of their academic career rehearsing and practicing for the numerous performance opportunities here at Illinois State and at local performance venues. Among many other requirements, ensemble participation and solo recitals are an essential part of the plan of study.

Students will enter one of many School of Music studios, choosing from four performance sequences in the Music major:

  • Keyboard Performance
  • Voice Performance
  • Band and Orchestra Instruments Performance
  • Classical Guitar Performance
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Point of Pride

Students with School of Music majors and minors receive individualized instruction taught by professors (not teaching assistants) on all wind, brass, and percussion instruments, as well as piano, voice, and strings (including classical guitar).

Why study Music Performance?

Professional classical music performers typically perform in professional, military, and civic music organizations and teach private music lessons. To gain admittance into the Music program at Illinois State, one must have extensive background in classical music and must complete a classical music entrance audition.

Majoring in music provides students with a sense of aesthetics and an understanding of human expression valuable to musicians in any performance venue.

Students find greatest success when they pursue graduate studies in music.

Schedule a Visit

Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.

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How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. You will select your audition time within the application for admission. Start your application today!

Applying to the Program

  • Complete your application for admission, including selecting an audition date—we'll email you with a confirmation for your audition.
  • Refer to the suggested repertoire recommendations for each music studio to prepare for your audition. You may want to also contact the respective applied faculty member for further information about the audition.
  • Visit your portal to upload:
    • a letter of recommendation from a music professional
    • a music resume
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Contact Information

  • School of Music
  • (309) 438-8959
  • Centennial East 230
  • Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts

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