Shenandoah University

What you'll study

Students engage in concentrated study in performance and complementary academic coursework. You may specialise in one of the following emphases: Instrumental, Keyboard, Voice, Conducting, Woodwind Doubling, or Open.

• Core focus on advanced music performance and refinement to a national or international standard.
• Coursework in music literature and theory to provide a solid academic foundation.
• Professional development and career navigation skills tailored to the 21st-century artist-teacher.
• Extensive practical experience through the Conservatory’s performance calendar and ensembles.
• Acceptable performance instruments for the programme include: Bassoon; Cello; Clarinet; Conducting; Double Bass (classical); Euphonium; Flute; French Horn; Guitar (classical); Harp; Oboe; Percussion (classical); Piano (classical); Saxophone (classical); Trombone (classical); Trumpet (classical); Tuba; Viola; Violin; and Voice.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and requires an audition; the audition schedule fills rapidly so early application and audition registration are recommended. Conservatory graduate application information and audition details are provided by the school.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to perform at levels commensurate with national or international careers and to function effectively as university-level teachers. The programme also develops research and writing abilities and trains students in career navigation strategies needed to secure competitive positions in higher education.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Shenandoah Conservatory engages in externally funded initiatives; for example, the Conservatory was awarded an Erasmus+ grant to support study-abroad exchange opportunities in Spain for music students and faculty. Prospective students should consult the Conservatory’s financial aid and graduate office for current scholarship, grant and funding options.