Music Major and Minor

Music majors, guided by their adviser, will choose six electives to create a path through the major.

A path allows majors to focus on a specific area of their choice, for example, instrumental or vocal performance, theory and composition, history and literature, or digital music studies.

The major culminates with Senior Seminar (MUS 401). A major may also apply for Honors in Music.

Three introductory courses, reflecting a breadth of musical study, forms the basis of a music minor. You can choose up to three electives numbered MUS 200 or above. 

Music majors and minors participate in both large and small ensembles, benefit from an active Concert Series, and have the opportunity to receive private instrumental or voice instruction from the best teachers in the Charlotte region.

No Auditions to Major or Minor in Music

Davidson does not require auditions for acceptance into the college or to become a music major or minor. However, all students must meet the academic admissions criteria of the college.

A music major, like any other major, is declared by the student at the end of the sophomore year. Music minors are declared by the student no later than October 1 of the student's senior year.

Applied Music Lessons

While not required for the major, all music majors are encouraged to take applied music lessons. The college covers the fee for applied music lessons in one instrument or voice for music majors, but there are separate charges for additional instruction.

Concert & Lecture Attendance

Music majors and minors are expected to regularly attend the concerts, recitals, and lectures presented by the music department.