Houghton University music major student playing violin at Christmas PRISM concert.

Music Performance Major

Explore your creativity through the act of performance.

No matter what instrument you play, Houghton's Bachelor of Music in Performance will help you improve your skills and give you the confidence to share your gifts with the world. Youโ€™ll find this program offers flexibility by allowing you to explore four curriculum tracks: instrumental (brass, guitar, percussion, strings, or woodwinds), organ, piano, or voice.

Degree Snapshot

Undergraduate - Bachelors

Degree Types: BMus

Program Credits: 128 Credits

Explore Courses & Degree RequirementsCareersMeet the Faculty

What will I learn?

Through Houghtonโ€™s degree in Music Performance, you will:

  • Develop technical ability through an exploration of sound and rhythm
  • Familiarize yourself in the art of teamwork through ensemble and rehearsal
  • Improve your vocal abilities through breathing and production techniques
  • Experiment with methods of creating and distributing sounds
  • Research a future professional application in musical performance
  • Enhance solo performance strategies to build stage confidence

Why study Music Performance at Houghton?

The Options are Endless

You will have the opportunity to explore your passions by studying and performing with instructors who have acquired proficiency in their musical discipline while enhancing your own talents by touring with one of our acclaimed ensemblesโ€”orchestra, band, choir, jazz, and chamber.

A Reputable Name in Music

From its dedicated faculty and top-notch facilities, Houghton is a top accredited member of NASM (National Association of Schools of Music), the principal U.S. accreditor for music in higher education.

Courses & Degree Requirements

Popular Courses


MTH 221 Musicianship I

In this course you'll learn to identify chromatic intervals and melodies within a piece of music. You will also develop your ability to sight-sing melodies. Gain fluency in rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictations in major and minor mode.

MUS 250 Music in a Christian Perspective

Study music in the context of a Christian worldview. Examine the biblical, philosophical, and scientific bases for musical creativity. Discuss the role of music in society and explore university-level work in music.

MCHU 151 Melodic Improvisation

Improve your melodic improvisation skills in harmony and rhythm. Practice different musical styles and create a cohesive worship service experience. You will learn how to guide others in developing their improvisation skills through hands-on experience.

Degree Options


BMus - Instrumental

128 credits

81-88 Credits
Required Courses

40-47 Credits
Elective Courses and General Education

Degree Requirements - Instrumental

BMus - Organ or Piano

128 credits

81 Credits
Required Courses

47 Credits
General Education and Elective Courses

Degree Requirements -OrganDegree Requirements - Piano

BMus - Voice

128 credits

87-94 Credits
Required Courses

34-41 Credits
General Education and Elective Courses

Degree Requirements - Voice

Meet a Faculty Member

What can I do with a degree in music performance?

Career Opportunities

Students earning a BMus degree in Music Performance from Houghton University are prepared to for careers as:

Graduate School

Master's degree options for Music Performance majors:

2%

Career growth for Musicians and Singers.

From 2023 to 2033 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Houghton students throwing their graduation caps in the air on the steps of the Chapel.

96%

of Houghton students are employed or in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.

Class of 2024

View Alumni Success and Career Outcomes

Related Majors

Student playing the piano on a dimmed stage.

Music Composition

Undergraduate - BMus
Houghton music students playing brass instruments during performance.

Music

Undergraduate - BA
Houghton student lifting their hand in praise during KOIN worship service.

Worship Arts

Undergraduate - BS

Ready for what's next?

Discover if earning your degree in Music Performance from Houghton University is right for you.


Questions?