Applied Performance: Instrumental

Students with strong performance skills are prepared for graduate studies in music. They become professional musicians, college and university teachers, or private studio teachers.

Apply Now

Visit Campus

Why should I study instrumental applied performance?

As an instrumental student, you'll choose one instrument of focus, but you'll also receive instruction in multiple groups of instruments to be a well-rounded performing musician.

What can I do with this degree?

Our alumni are performers and instructors in a variety of capacities, with professional music groups, at colleges and universities, and as in-house musicians and musical directors for churches and other organizations.

What skills will I develop?

Advanced musical theory
Rich knowledge of music history and literature
Conducting
Pedagogy in several instrumental types
Collaboration in performance, teaching, and interpersonally
Creative problem-solving

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

Collaboration with Faculty: Work one-on-one with your professors to hone technical skills and collaborate on research and performances.

Musical Tours: You'll perform with one of our highly-regarded musical groups, which travel around the Twin Cities, the country, and even around the world.

Performance Opportunities: Several home events like Festival of Christmas, Classics in the Great Hall, and Jazz in the Great Hall also mean you'll perform regularly in our Benson Great Hall, a premier venue in the Twin Cities metro.

Academic Plans and Course Catalog

See plans

full- and part-time faculty

Alumni perform in local musical theatre productions at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, the Ordway, the Guthrie, and the Minnesota Children’s Theatre Company.