Prospective Students
A place for you at Southeastern
Whether you plan to major in music or develop your artistic interests and abilities while majoring in another field, the Southeastern Louisiana University Department of Music and Dramatic Arts has something to offer you. In addition to exposing Southeastern students to music, dance and theatre, the Department of Music and Dramatic Arts prepares students to succeed in musical careers. The department offers degrees in both Music Education and Music Performance and allows undergraduate students to minor in music.
There are many reasons why students are drawn to our program. Our department provides a stimulating and rich environment for students. Students are surrounded by like-minded peers, but are not isolated from the general population of the university. The faculty is a blend of professional experience and rigorous education. Our instructors offer personalized attention in teaching and research with the goal of developing the talents and abilities of each student.
As a potential student of the musical and dramatic arts at Southeastern, we encourage you to explore what we have to offer. You will find the means to refine your abilities and talents, develop your teaching skills and nurture your love of music.
Auditions and Admission
All
students wishing to be music majors or minors must qualify for
admission to the department by auditioning on their principal
instrument or voice. Entering freshmen are advised to contact the
Department of Music during their senior year in high school in order to
secure information regarding scholarship auditions and general
information about the degree plan of their choice. It is recommended
that the student complete the audition process prior to May 1st for the
fall semester and December 1st for the spring semester. Students must
perform solo(s) or etude(s) repertoire that demonstrates technical
proficiency and musicianship. Students are generally required to
perform a live on-campus audition, however, a video recording may be
substituted under special circumstances.Transfer students from other colleges and universities are advised to contact the Department of Music one semester prior to their anticipated date of enrollment in order to insure a smooth transition into the music curriculum at Southeastern. Transcripts will be evaluated by the department chair prior to enrollment as a music major.
Note: At the discretion of the music faculty, students may be admitted to the department provisionally for one semester.
Scholarships
The Department of
Music and Dramatic Arts stands ready to assist students of outstanding
ability as well as those with financial needs. All scholarships
are based on academic and performance achievement. The Department
of Music offers numerous scholarships, ranging from $100 to $1200. We
do not have a pre-determined audition day and will schedule your
audition as much as possible to fit your schedule. Please contact the
appropriate applied faculty member to schedule your audition.To download the Vocal Area's 2008-09 Audition & Scholarship Form, click here.
The Curriculum
The main qualification for a music major at Southeastern is a background in music skills and a strong interest in performance. Prospective music majors may choose between performance and music education.
While taking applied music subjects, students perform regularly in a studio or repertory class; students must appear in scheduled student recitals at least once each semester. The department offers private instruction on every instrument.
The music education curriculum amply prepares students for teaching careers with either a vocal or instrumental emphasis. Along with a core program in music history and theory, the student receives training in all aspects of music education, including student teaching.
The courses and degree curricula offered by the Department of Music and Dramatic Arts are accredited by both the National Association of Schools of Music. In addition, the music education curricula meet the requirements of the Louisiana State Department of Education and of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Curriculum requirements for each program can be found here.
Ensembles & Organizations
Students in the Department of Music and Dramatic Arts are able to participate in a wide variety of ensembles including:
- The “Spirit of the Southland” Marching Band, Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Basketball Band
- Two Jazz Big Bands, Jazz Combos
- Concert Choir, Women’s Chorale, University Chorus, Gospel Singers
- University Orchestra, Opera / Musical Theatre Workshop
- Flute Ensemble, Clarinet Choir, Woodwind Quintets
- Guitar Ensemble
Students are also able to participate in service and professional organizations that include
- Kappa Kappa Psi, Delta Omicron, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
- MENC, ACDA
Career Opportunities
The department’s degree requirements and elective courses are designed to give students the best possible preparation to succeed in their post-university careers. Our graduates represent Southeastern in graduate programs around the country, in professional performing ensembles, and as educators in schools throughout the state.
Questions?
For more information, contact the Department of Music and Dramatic Arts.