AREAS OF CONCENTRATION

All music majors pursue a common core of course work in theory and history, receive private voice or instrumental lessons, and perform in an appropriate large ensemble. In addition, each area of concentration requires specific courses for graduation. All degree programs require an audition or its equivalent for admission. For further details about the requirements of a particular field, please contact the Director of Admissions:

Director of Admissions
Department of Music & Dance
Fine Arts Center 271
University of Massachusetts
Amherst, MA 01003-9330
tel: 413-545-6048
email: cthornley@music.umass.edu

“UMass offers outstanding applied faculty, award-winning ensembles, and talented and knowledgeable professors who serve not only as guides and informational resources but form the beginnings of the web of contacts that one develops over the course of his/her career. UMass attracts good musicians and that means you need to work hard to excel, but it's not a vicious, backstabbing type of competitiveness…we all supported each other in our efforts to improve and learn about music. In my opinion, UMass is one of the best schools for music education in the New England region. You are required to take general education classes that would not be required at a conservatory so you get a more well-rounded, practical education.”

Neal Melley BM '96
Principal Trombonist and soloist,
United States Air Force Band of Liberty.