Why study Music at MC?
Located in the new Clayton Center for the Arts, the Maryville College Music Department offers a comprehensive, NASM-accredited music curriculum within the acclaimed Maryville College liberal arts experience. Students will receive expert instruction in music theory, music history, and performance. Our five music majors‚ the Bachelor of Arts in Music, the Bachelor of Music in Music Education (Choral), the Bachelor of Music in Music Education (Instrumental), the Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, the Bachelor of Music in Theory and Composition‚ provide ample preparation and flexibility for the pursuit of careers involving music or graduate school.
AUDITIONS AND ADMISSION TO MUSIC CURRICULA
All students intending to pursue a major or minor in music or participate in an ensemble must complete the Music Placement Hearings during Fall Orientation prior to beginning study. Each student will then be counseled into the appropriate courses. All music majors must demonstrate proficiency in basic keyboard skills. Those who lack this preparation upon entering must take Keyboard Fundamentals for 0 credits every term until all five areas of the proficiency requirement are passed. All music majors must pass the piano proficiency requirement before enrolling in Senior Project 351-352.
Admission to a particular curriculum as a music major is conferred by the music faculty after the completion of MUS 102: Music Theory II (3 hrs.) or, in the case of students with advanced standing, after one semester of study at Maryville College. Contact the Chair of the Division of Fine Arts for details.
French or German is recommended as the foreign language choice for singers and students planning graduate work in music.
Cultivating a vibrant environment, the Maryville College Music Department prepares students for lives as creative musicians who will bring imagination, beauty, intelligence, and vision to their communities, thereby becoming cultural leaders in the world.
Scholarships, Awards, & Auditions
The Division of Fine Arts offers several opportunities to both first-year and returning or transfer students based on academic achievement, interest areas, leadership and talent. Learn More about the awards and qualifications >
Meet a Current Scot
Dana Patterson
Hometown: Greenback, Tennessee
Major: Music Education
Introduced to MC in high school through the All-East Choir program, Dana found a community that shared her love for choir. As a Music Education major, she is inspired by the joy choral music brings—whether it’s a child mastering a new song or a senior reliving a cherished memory.
“Choral music is meant to spread messages and bring all kinds of people together,” she said. “I have seen this throughout my college career, and that is what I love most about my major.” On campus, Dana is active in Concert Choir and the vocal ensembles Off Kilter and Lassies. She also works as a Fine Arts assistant. After graduation, she plans to teach elementary music and later pursue a master’s degree in choral conducting.
Meet a Recent Grad
Elaina Wilson ’24
Currently: Pursuing Master of Music in Choral Conducting at Florida State University
Growing up in Maryville, Elaina knew she would receive an individualized education at MC as well as robust networking opportunities. Elaina enjoyed the choral/vocal aspects of her track and appreciated the expertise and guidance of instructors who helped her grow in her vocal journey and in her teaching experience. She wants prospective students to know that “MC has an amazing student body, staff, and faculty who truly want what is best for everyone.”
Now enrolled at Florida State, “one of the top music schools in the country,” Elaina said, she will be working as a graduate assistant while pursuing her M.M. degree in choral conducting. “I’ll be conducting the vocal jazz ensemble, but I’ll get to conduct a few groups during my time here.”
