Inspire a love of music in the next generation
Pfeiffer’s University’s undergraduate music education degree program prepares students for careers as K-12 school music teachers.
If you want to educate children in theory and performance, lead school choirs or orchestras, and educate within a school context, you’ll find this program to be the perfect fit. Develop your knowledge of theory, learn educational techniques, and continue to develop your musical skills under the guidance of expert faculty members who prioritize mentorship with their students.
About the Program
The Bachelor of Arts in Music Education program at Pfeiffer University leads students in gaining a strong grasp of music theory, music history, and musicianship. Music education students experience a robust music curriculum that includes individual instruction in voice or their instrument, ensembles, concerts and performance tours. Students also take courses on music in school curriculum, digital learning competencies, diversity in education, and other relevant topics for educators. All music education majors participate in either student teaching or an internship in education.
How to Apply
Applying to the Bachelor of Arts in Music Education program is a multi-step process.
First, apply to Pfeiffer using our undergraduate admissions application.
Then, complete an audition form for the Pfeiffer Music Program. On the form, you will be asked to select an audition date, or you will check a box that reads “I need an audition date other than the options above.” If you choose a date, then you’ve done your part once you submit the form! The Music Coordinator, Elizabeth Harrison, will be in touch about your audition details.
If you need to select an alternative audition date, submit your audition form then contact the [email protected] or 704-463-3142 to find a day that works for you.
If you want to submit a recorded video audition instead of coming in person, you must contact [email protected] or 704-463-3142 for approval.
Audition Requirements
- One song or aria in English
- One song or aria in a (non-English) language of your choice
- All selections must be performed from memory and should be drawn from a variety of stylistic periods. Songs may be from the art song repertoire or a combination of:
- art songs
- musical theater
- aria from an opera, operetta, or oratorio (Only one selection may be an aria. Arias are not required.)
- Jacc, Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM), and original compositions are not acceptable.
- Piano accompaniment is preferred but not required.
- One piece by Johann Sebastian Bach. The “Eight Little Preludes and Fugues” are accepted.
- One contrasting piece of your choice.
- Be prepared to sight-read during your audition.
- Two contrasting pieces of your choice that are:
- performed by memory
- drawn from a variety of stylistic periods
- not jazz, Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM), or original composition.
- During your audition, be prepared to:
- play scales in parallel motion and hand together for 2–4 octaves
- sight-read
- Two contrasting pieces of your choice OR your all-distract or all-state solo. Does not need to be memorized.
- During your audition, be prepared to:
- play major scales and a chromatic scale. You may play in an All-State scale pattern.
- sight-read
- Questions regarding instrumental auditions may be directed to Dr. Joseph Earp, [email protected]
- Two contrasting pieces of your choice OR your all-distract or all-state solo. Does not need to be memorized.
- During your audition, be prepared to:
- play (mallets) major and chromatic scales (two octaves), snare (rudiments), timpani (tune intervals)
- sight-read
- show off multiple instruments including smare, mallets, and/or timpani
- Questions regarding instrumental auditions may be directed to Dr. Joseph Earp, [email protected]
Accreditation
Pfeiffer University is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Pfeiffer’s teacher education program is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
Contact
Questions?
The Pfeiffer English program builds upon core liberal arts education courses with courses in foundational music knowledge, education, and applied music. Coursework in musicianship, music literature, arranging and orchestration, and music technology enhance each student’s personal development as a musician. Educational courses include classes like “Learner & Learning” and “Introduction to Teaching Students with Exceptional Needs,” while music education courses range from “Music in the Elementary School to “Band Pedagogy.” All music education majors gain real-world experience through a student teaching semester or internship.
Hands-On Experience
Music education students may take applied courses including:
- Pfeiffer Wind Ensemble
- University Singers
- Gospel Choir
- Concert Band
- Jazz Ensemble
- Pep Band
- Praise Band
- The Village Ringers
- Guitar Ensemble
- Chamber Music
- Women’s Ensemble
Career Opportunities
Music education students will be prepared for school roles such as:
- Music teacher
- Band director
- Choir director
For those interested in graduate-level studies, Pfeiffer’s English degree can help you prepare to apply for programs in:
- Music administration
- Performance
- Composition
- Church music