Shenandoah University

What you'll study

Coursework combines core music theory and literature with specialized musical theatre practice and supporting theatre and dance components. Typical learning areas described in the programme include:

• Traditional piano repertoire and technique through weekly private lessons with conservatory artist-teachers.
• Jazz piano private lessons as a distinct sequence to expand stylistic versatility.
• Repertoire spanning operetta, pre-golden age, golden age, contemporary musical theatre, pop and rock.
• Practical accompaniment skills for musical theatre rehearsals, auditions, staging and dance rehearsals.
• Study of American musical theatre history and repertoire, acting for singers (including acting through song), and dance technique/vocabulary to inform theatre collaboration.
• Experience as class pianist for musical theatre courses and participation in up to three musical productions per year plus accompanying assignments for auditions and ensembles.

Entry requirements

The source course information does not list specific numeric admissions criteria. It does indicate conservatory minors and some program options require approval or an audition. Prospective applicants should consult Shenandoah Conservatory admissions for detailed audition and entry requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to enter the professional musical theatre world or continue into graduate study, including Shenandoah Conservatory’s Master of Music in Conducting with a musical theatre accompanying emphasis. The accompanist skill set acquired enables work across genres—operetta, pre-golden age, golden age, contemporary musical theatre, pop and rock—as well as roles accompanying staging and dance rehearsals, playing piano or synthesizer in performance, and supporting auditions and studio work.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

The programme description does not list specific scholarships. Students should contact Shenandoah University’s financial aid and conservatory offices to explore scholarships, merit awards or assistantships. Academic and learning supports cited for students include free peer tutoring, a Writing Center and Math Enrichment Center, and faculty advising to help academic progress.