COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Music in Performance at San José State University’s School of Music is designed for students who aim to pursue professional careers as vocalists or instrumental performers. The program provides intensive, performance-centered training that combines private instruction, ensemble participation, academic coursework, and frequent public performance opportunities. Students receive weekly 60-minute private lessons in their primary instrument or voice, which serve as the core of their technical and artistic development across all years of study. Alongside applied study, students complete foundational and advanced coursework in music theory, musicianship, music history, and music technology, ensuring they develop a strong academic understanding of musical structure, style, and interpretation. Ensemble participation is a major requirement and includes large performing groups such as choir, symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, concert band, jazz ensemble, or opera theater, depending on the student’s specialization. These ensembles provide essential collaborative experience and prepare students for professional performance environments. Students are also expected to participate in chamber music and smaller ensembles, which further enhance their versatility, communication skills, and interpretive depth. The curriculum is carefully structured to progress from lower-division studies in theory and musicianship to upper-division advanced performance and literature courses, culminating in a senior project that demonstrates artistic maturity and technical mastery. In addition to coursework, students regularly perform in studio classes, juries, and public recitals, gaining valuable stage experience throughout the program. A key feature of the degree is the requirement of both junior and senior recitals, which serve as major milestones showcasing individual growth and professional readiness. Elective flexibility allows students to explore additional interests in areas such as composition, conducting, or specialized performance studies. Overall, the program integrates rigorous technical training, academic depth, and extensive performance experience to prepare students for careers as professional musicians or for further advanced study in music performance or related fields.