Shenandoah University

What you'll study

Instruction emphasizes hands‑on, practical preparation for music ministry. Each summer concentrates on a different area: liturgical organ playing; conducting (including adult, children’s and handbell choirs); and congregational song (hymns and liturgy). Course topics include repertoire selection and planning for liturgical settings, rehearsal leadership and the musical components of worship, music history and world musical styles, music technology, and non‑musical aspects such as program building, administration and staff relations. Students also develop written and oral communication skills related to church music practice.

Entry requirements

Admission to Shenandoah Conservatory is competitive and requires academic admissibility plus a mandatory audition or portfolio review and interview. The conservatory uses rolling admissions; audition dates are limited and may fill in advance.

Career prospects

The certificate prepares graduates to work as professional church musicians. Typical roles include organist, choir or music director, accompanist and studio teacher; it also prepares candidates to teach and develop amateur choirs and to collaborate professionally with clergy on worship planning.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Shenandoah offers universitywide learning support and career services to assist professional development. Prospective students should contact Conservatory admissions for information on available scholarships, assistantships or other funding opportunities and to learn about application timing for audition dates.