Bachelor of Music (BM) in Music Education - Instrumental Emphasis

The goal of the program is to help students gain an understanding of music and the relationship of music to the education of students in elementary and secondary schools. Preparing to teach music in the public schools requires the development of competent musicianship, which enables students to construct in their own teaching meaningful musical experiences that will instill long-lasting musical values. Students are also grounded in the principles of child development, psychology, and philosophy, which prepare them to establish an environment for relevant, sequenced, age-appropriate experiences, assessed in ways that are authentic and reflect the musical progress of the child. Extensive background in general education prepares the student to be a contributing member of the total educational system, able to thrive in the cultural diversity which characterizes today?s schools. Lastly, the undergraduate experience culminates in practical self-realization, enabling the individual to make informed, realistic decisions while engaged in the teaching profession. In this program, students will focus on instrumental emphasis. The Music Education program features: visits to and by public school music ensembles where students are able to practice teaching and conducting; they design a digital portfolio during the degree process, helping them chronicle their performances and teaching accomplishments, which can then be used in a job interview and throughout their teaching career; guest speakers, including an annual visit by alumni currently teaching music; guests provide demonstrations and advice about the field of music education today; travel to the Illinois music educators conference annually, to attend workshops, concerts, and to network with fellow music educators; recital performance that includes conducting their own ensemble that they have organized and rehearsed; early field experiences are available for them with outstanding public school teachers; and personalized attention with their advisor throughout their degree to support them in the process of their degree program.