Masters of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a...
B.M. in Performance
Richmond, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Performance program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is designed for aspiring musicians who seek intensive training and performance experience in their chosen instrument or voice. This program offers students the opportunity to develop their musical skills, artistic expression, and performance techniques under the guidance of accomplished faculty members and professional musicians. With a focus on individualized instruction, ensemble participation, and public performances, the B.M. in Performance program prepares students for careers as professional performers, educators, or scholars in the field of music.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.M. in Performance program at VCU is structured to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in music theory, music history, applied lessons, and performance practice. Students receive private instruction on their primary instrument or voice, where they focus on technical proficiency, repertoire development, interpretation, and stage presence. Additionally, students participate in ensemble rehearsals and performances, where they collaborate with fellow musicians and gain experience in various musical styles and genres. The curriculum may also include courses in music pedagogy, music technology, and professional development to prepare students for diverse career pathways in music.
Research Focus: In addition to performance-based training, students in the B.M. in Performance program at VCU have opportunities to engage in scholarly research and creative inquiry in music. Faculty members are actively involved in research projects, artistic collaborations, and performance opportunities that contribute to the advancement of musical knowledge and practice. Students may have the opportunity to participate in research seminars, independent study projects, or honors theses, where they explore topics such as music history, music theory, performance analysis, or composition, under the mentorship of faculty members.
Industry Engagement: The B.M. in Performance program at VCU fosters connections with the music industry, professional organizations, and performance venues to provide students with industry engagement opportunities and practical experience. Students may have the opportunity to participate in masterclasses, workshops, and clinics led by visiting artists, guest conductors, or music industry professionals. Additionally, students may gain real-world experience through internships, apprenticeships, or performance opportunities with local orchestras, opera companies, theaters, recording studios, or arts organizations, allowing them to build professional networks and gain exposure to the music industry.
Global Perspective: The B.M. in Performance program at VCU incorporates a global perspective by exposing students to diverse musical traditions, cultures, and perspectives from around the world. Students study music from different historical periods and geographical regions, exploring the rich diversity of musical styles, genres, and performance practices. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to participate in international exchange programs, study abroad experiences, or cultural immersion trips, where they engage with musicians and music traditions from different countries and gain a broader understanding of global musical perspectives.
Location
Richmond, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 37588
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 80
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 70 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.
International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.
VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.
VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.
VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.
VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.
Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.
External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.
It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Performance program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) possess exceptional musical skills and professional training, positioning them for diverse and rewarding careers in the music industry.
Professional Performer: Graduates of the B.M. in Performance program may pursue careers as professional musicians, performing as soloists, ensemble members, or orchestra musicians. They can perform in concert halls, theaters, music festivals, or recording studios, showcasing their talents and interpreting a wide range of musical styles and genres. Professional performers may specialize in classical music, jazz, contemporary music, world music, or crossover genres, building successful careers as artists, recitalists, or session musicians.
Orchestral Musician: Graduates may pursue careers as orchestral musicians, performing with symphony orchestras, chamber orchestras, or opera orchestras. They audition for positions as instrumentalists, section leaders, or principal players, performing classical repertoire, contemporary compositions, and collaborative works with guest artists and conductors. Orchestral musicians may work full-time or freelance, performing in concerts, opera productions, ballet performances, and recording sessions.
Music Educator: Graduates can pursue careers as music educators, teaching private lessons, group classes, or ensemble rehearsals to students of all ages and skill levels. They may work as private instructors, music school teachers, or faculty members at colleges, universities, or conservatories, sharing their expertise and passion for music with aspiring musicians. Music educators develop curriculum materials, assess student progress, and organize recitals, competitions, or music festivals to showcase students' talents.
Arts Administrator: Graduates may work as arts administrators or program managers for music organizations, performing arts centers, or cultural institutions, overseeing artistic programming, concert production, and audience development initiatives. They plan and coordinate concert seasons, manage budgets, and cultivate partnerships with artists, donors, and community stakeholders to promote the arts and engage diverse audiences. Arts administrators may work in marketing, development, education, or operations roles within arts organizations.
Arts Entrepreneur: Graduates can become arts entrepreneurs, launching their own music businesses, ensembles, or artistic projects to create innovative performance opportunities and engage audiences in new ways. They may start their own chamber ensembles, music festivals, concert series, or recording labels, producing concerts, albums, or multimedia projects that showcase their artistic vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Arts entrepreneurs may also explore digital platforms, social media, or crowdfunding to fund and promote their creative endeavors.
Music Therapist: Graduates may pursue careers as music therapists, using music as a therapeutic tool to address physical, emotional, cognitive, or social needs of individuals with disabilities, illnesses, or mental health challenges. They design and implement music-based interventions, such as singing, playing instruments, or improvising, to promote relaxation, communication, self-expression, and rehabilitation in clinical settings, schools, nursing homes, or community centers. Music therapists may work in collaboration with healthcare professionals, psychologists, or special education teachers to support holistic healing and wellness.
Conductor/Composer/Arranger: Graduates with strong leadership and composition skills may pursue careers as conductors, composers, or arrangers, leading ensembles, composing original music, or arranging existing works for performance. They may conduct orchestras, choirs, bands, or chamber ensembles, rehearsing musicians, interpreting scores, and conducting performances. Alternatively, they may compose original music for concerts, film, television, or multimedia projects, or arrange music for different instrumental or vocal ensembles, collaborating with performers and directors to bring their musical vision to life.
Arts Advocate/Activist: Graduates may work as arts advocates or activists, promoting the value of music education, supporting arts funding, and advocating for policies that promote access to music education and cultural enrichment in schools and communities. They may work for advocacy organizations, nonprofit agencies, or grassroots movements that champion the arts, lobbying lawmakers, mobilizing supporters, and raising awareness about the importance of music in society.
