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Music

Major | Minor

Why Study Music at Goshen College?

As a music major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll be part of a vibrant, collaborative community where music is both a personal passion and a shared expression. Whether your goals are to perform, teach, compose, or work in music-related industries, our program offers you rigorous training, real-world experience, and opportunities to grow your talents in a supportive environment.

You’ll study with passionate faculty who are also accomplished performers and scholars. From classical to contemporary styles, from solo recitals to full ensembles, you’ll build the skills, creativity, and confidence to pursue a meaningful career in music—or simply continue your love of music for life.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school, or in service within a year
  • 19%
    of traditional undergraduates participate in music ensembles

    Career Paths

    Music graduates from Goshen College go on to rewarding careers as:

    • Music educators
    • Performers and composers
    • Church music directors
    • Conductors
    • Arts administrators
    • Music therapists
    • Studio teachers
    • Recording and audio engineers

    Our alumni teach in public and private schools, perform in regional and national ensembles, and pursue graduate degrees in music education, performance, conducting, and more.

    Music Ensembles

    Music is a huge part of campus culture. Goshen College’s music ensembles are open by audition to all GC students, regardless of major, and students are encouraged to participate.

    Our ensembles include:

    • Chamber Choir (mixed voice chorus)
    • Vox Profundi (low voice chorus)
    • Voices of the Earth (high voice chorus)
    • Symphony Orchestra
    • Lavender Jazz

    Credits and Requirements

    Goshen College offers a music major and minor with multiple specialized tracks, including:

    • Music Education (K-12 Licensure)
    • Music Performance
    • Music for Social Change
    • General Music

    Additional minors include Musical Theater and Church Music.

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    Our facilities include:

    • Sauder Concert Hall, known for its world-class acoustics
    • Rieth Recital Hall with a Steinway D concert grand piano
    • Practice rooms and faculty studios
    • Recording and technology labs
    • Dedicated spaces for jazz, orchestral, choral, and contemporary music

    Scholarships

    Students interested in a music major or minor are eligible for Music Achievement Awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 annually. Ensemble Grants of $1,000 annually are also available for students not planning to major or minor in music. All instruments and voice parts are encouraged to apply.

    Facilities & Resources

    Our facilities include:

    • Sauder Concert Hall, known for its world-class acoustics
    • Rieth Recital Hall with a Steinway D concert grand piano
    • Practice rooms and faculty studios
    • Recording and technology labs
    • Dedicated spaces for jazz, orchestral, choral, and contemporary music

    Ready to get started?

    Related majors & minors

    All Majors & Minors
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    • Graphic Design

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    • Undecided

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    • Theater Education

      If you’re passionate about theater and feel called to teach, the theater education minor at Goshen College is a powerful way to prepare for licensure to teach theater in grades 5–12.

    • Theater

      At Goshen College, your journey as a theater major or minor immerses you in a vibrant, collaborative community where your creativity and voice are celebrated.

    • Music for Social Change

      As a music major with a concentration in Music for Social Change at Goshen College, you’ll learn how music can be a powerful force for transformation—in individuals, communities, and the world.

    • Musical Theater

      As a musical theater minor at Goshen College, you’ll merge your passion for acting, music, and movement into a dynamic and collaborative art form.