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Department of Music

Preparing students for careers in music, including performance, industry, and education.

About the Department

We foster the development of musical talent and prepare you for careers in the music industry or music education. Wayne State provides a rich musical experience for all students and contributes to the musical life of the community and state, as well as the college. Whether you are a music major or want to take part in music as an extracurricular activity, you have a variety of musical selections to choose from: marching band, orchestra, jazz band, and other smaller ensembles, as well as concert choir, Mariachi, Madrigal Singers, and show choir. 

In addition to so many chances for musical involvement, Wayne State has several excellent facilities used for performances. The beautiful Peterson Fine Arts Building is home to the Lied Performing Arts Center and Ramsey Theatre, which seats nearly 700 spectators and helps performers gain a better understanding of the necessary scale of projection required to fill a large house. Peterson also houses numerous classrooms and practice rooms for the variety of musical groups or if you need a quiet space to practice your instrument or vocal talent. Ley Theatre in the Brandenburg Education Building lends a classic atmosphere to productions and seats just over 300, a perfect venue for faculty and student recitals, and other smaller performances.

We are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

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“The music faculty are so extremely talented, and they have faculty recitals, so we get to see their talent, which is amazing. I just love being able to have the chance to perform myself. We have student recitals every week, which gives students a chance to perform. I love going to concerts here because they're just beautiful, every one.”

 

Rebecca Bonsall

Minor: Music
Hometown: Norfolk, Neb.

Music Programs

Choose from our music department majors, or enhance your education by adding on a second major or minor. Explore your options here.

Program Name Bachelor's Pre-Professional or Affiliate Master's Minor Education Field Endorsement Education Subject Endorsement Supplemental Endorsement
Interdisciplinary Studies              
Music (General Studies)              
Music Education - Vocal (PK-12)              
Music Education - Vocal and Instrumental (PK-12)              
Music Industry              
Music Performance              
EXPLORE ALL MAJORS

“Welcome to the Department of Music at Wayne State College! With more than 75 annual student performances and 14 performing ensembles, we offer numerous opportunities for students to pursue their passion in music. World-class faculty and a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1 create a vibrant and inspired environment as students continue on their musical journey at WSC. Additional opportunities such as international travel, performance scholarships, and active student organizations provide an education that extends beyond the classroom. The Department of Music is a special place to study and perform music – please check us out!”

 

David Bohnert, Ph.D.
Department Chair
Professor of Music, Director of Bands, Conductor

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, performing groups, music festivals, and more.

Student clubs and organizations

Clubs and Organizations

Music Festivals

Music Festivals

Upcoming Events

Activities for Music Majors

Performing Groups

Wayne State offers a variety of music performance opportunities throughout the year. Vocal performance groups include Concert Choir, Jazz Ensemble, Madrigal Singers, and Women's Choir. Instrumental groups include the Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Chamber Music, and Mariachi Ensemble.

 

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Student Teaching and Clinical Practice for Education Majors

Internships/Clinicals

At WSC, you’ll get the opportunity to perform recitals and other various performances to build your portfolio and gain experience in this field of study. If you’re an education major, you’ll need to complete clinical practice (student teaching). Career Services is also available to help you find internship opportunities.

Learn from the Best

Our faculty are accomplished, with 85% of our full-time faculty having the highest degree in their field. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in a personalized setting with a friendly atmosphere.

Meet the Faculty Visit the School of Arts and Humanities

Music Scholarships

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships for music students.

Apply for Music Scholarships Apply for All Scholarships Tuition and Aid

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