ALL MUSIC PROGRAMS | GRADUATE PROGRAMS | UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS

What does it cost?

Check out our cost calculator or visit student financial services for information on estimated costs.

How long will it take?

Music students must pass a qualifying examination specific to their concentration during their fourth semester of study. The rising junior jury determines whether the student has made adequate progress to qualify for entry to the 3000-level of applied music study. (4 years)

Where can I take classes?
Atlanta Campus

Am I required to take classes at a specific location?
Atlanta Campus

Application Deadlines View Admissions Requirements

Fall: June 1 (All concentrations)
Spring: November 15 (All concentrations except Conducting)
Summer: March 1 (Music Education concentration and non-degree programs only)

College of the Arts

Bachelor of Music, Concentration in Music Performance, B.Mu.

School of Music

Email: [email protected]

Georgia State University’s Music Performance (Bachelor of Music) prepares students for careers as performing musicians or studio teachers. A strong background in music reading and performance (including participation in school bands, choirs or orchestras, performance experience in small groups and as a soloist and private study) is required. Many students in this concentration have excelled in community groups such as youth orchestras and have performed in public concerts and recitals. Graduates in performance from Georgia State have gone on to have major careers in some of the world’s most prestigious venues.

An audition is required for admission.

The mission of the School of Music is to preserve, promote and advance humanity’s rich and expanding tradition of artistic music-making through performance, composition, education and research in accordance with the urban and global initiatives of the university. Students have the opportunity to work with an internationally acclaimed faculty of 40 full-time and 24 part-time faculty in concentrations such as performance, pedagogy, music education, conducting, composition and jazz studies.

Program Highlights

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

Georgia State offers performance opportunities at professional conferences, conventions and competitions like GMEA, Percussive Arts International Convention, North American Saxophone Alliance, International Navy Band Symposium, International Double Reed Society, International Clarinet Association, National Trumpet Conference, American Trombone Workshop, International Euphonium Tuba Festival and regional/national MTNA Competitions.

VIBRANT LOCATION

The downtown location fosters connections with local music ensembles and venues like Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Red Light Cafe, City Winery, Atlanta Opera, nearby theaters, schools and churches. Alumni, faculty and students actively participate in the thriving music scene, performing in various professional groups within the city.

GUEST ARTISTS & ENSEMBLES

The School of Music hosts renowned educators and professional musicians who offer concerts, workshops and masterclasses for students. We also have three resident ensembles: Bent Frequency, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta and Ensemble ATL.

COLLEGE TO CAREER

Students gain extensive performance opportunities with local and regional orchestras, contemporary chamber ensembles, churches and professional conferences. Many students secure employment in neighboring schools and churches, acquiring valuable real-world experience in their field prior to graduation.

Program Details

To be considered for admission, students applying to the School of Music at Georgia State University are required to complete a separate application through the Acceptd platform.

Prospective students applying for any Bachelor of Music degree program in any concentration (Performance, Composition, Jazz Studies or Music Education) must perform a live audition. Students applying for the Bachelor of Science degree in either concentration (Music Management or Music Production & Audio Recording,) must either perform a live audition or submit a digital portfolio before beginning first-year coursework in music. Audition requirements, important deadlines and audition dates can be found on the Music School Application page.

The Music Performance concentration at GSU offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate and refine the skills of aspiring performers. Students in this program receive personalized instruction from esteemed faculty and engage in a range of performance opportunities. The curriculum includes private lessons, ensemble participation, performance workshops and masterclasses, allowing students to develop their technical proficiency, musical interpretation and stage presence. Through a diverse repertoire spanning various genres and styles, students gain a deep understanding of musical expression and artistry. The program fosters a supportive and collaborative environment that nurtures the individual growth of each performer. Graduates of our Music Performance program emerge as versatile and polished musicians, prepared to excel in professional performance careers or pursue further advanced studies in their field.

For complete degree requirements, visit the catalog:

At Georgia State, we understand that students come to our institution from a range of financial backgrounds. We value the investment our students make in their education, and we aim to provide access to scholarships and aid opportunities that can support students through their academic journey.

Learn more about tuition rates or use Georgia State’s cost calculator to determine the investment required for your course of study.

Fees

There is an applied music fee of $350 per semester for a one-hour (8000 level) lesson and $200 per semester for a half-hour (6000 level) lesson. Additional lab fees for certain courses may apply.

The School of Music provides unparalleled opportunities to study and work among an inspiring community of musicians in one of America’s most vibrant urban centers. Students receive exceptional training, are provided with meaningful opportunities and begin serious careers no matter what type of music drives their passion. The goals and outcomes from an undergraduate degree include:

Ensuring comprehensive exposure to an array of perspectives as represented by the various faculty approaches to music performance, music history, music theory and teaching styles.
Honoring the continuing traditions of music-making and pedagogy while exploring new forms and contemporary issues within the various musical fields.
Developing pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships for undergraduate-level courses.
Preparing students for a professional career in music through rigorous performance preparation, exposure to important repertoire and attention to practical business aspects of various musical careers.

Career Outcomes

A degree in Music Performance from Georgia State can open up a wide range of exciting and fulfilling career opportunities in the music industry.

Equipped with comprehensive training and mentorship from esteemed faculty, graduates become professional musicians, either as solo performers or as part of orchestras, bands or ensembles. They can also explore careers in music education, teaching and mentoring aspiring musicians in schools, colleges or private studios.
With ample opportunities to participate in conferences, competitions and collaborations with local music ensembles and venues, graduates gain invaluable exposure and experience.

A School of Music concert

Student & Alumni Stories

Kripa Sharma wears her graduation regalia.

Biomedical Science Graduate Begins New Chapter as Dental Student

Kripa Sharma (B.I.S. ’23) hopes to one day increase access to dental care and bridge healthcare disparities.

Aspiring Dentist Combines Love for Artistry, Community Into Dream Career

Sarah Santiago (B.I.S. ’24) has set her sights on becoming a dentist, with hopes of one day opening her own dental practice or leading the Division of Oral Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Yes, I Can Scholarship Awarded to 12 Biomedical Science Undergraduate Students

Through the support of an anonymous donor, the Institute for Biomedical Sciences at Georgia State University has awarded its newly established Yes, I Can Scholarship to 12 outstanding undergraduate students.