“Music is the rhythm of head and heart.”
—Mary Baker Eddy, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, p. 213
Our curriculum and music events support the pursuit of artistic excellence and academic study. You’ll develop your knowledge and ability through coursework, private instruction, and frequent performance opportunities. We also provide training in theory (fundamentals through species and florid counterpoint), history (ancient through contemporary and world studies), analysis (structural and harmonic), and performance studies in chamber music, large ensembles, solo repertoire, and composition. Over the course of your studies, you'll develop an appreciation for the rich variety of musical expression that enables a greater understanding among peoples.
Majors and Minors Offered
- Music (BA major)
- Music Studies (BA major)
- Music Studies: Producer/Performer (BA major)
- Music General Emphasis (minor)
- Music Technology (minor)
Why Study Music at Principia College?
- We combine the critical elements of a university-caliber music program with the benefits of a small, liberal arts college.
- We provide frequent opportunities to perform to nurture musical growth.
- Our faculty train students to lead and serve as professional musicians, as musicians in community and sacred settings, and to be engaged listeners.
- We offer studio lessons with faculty on campus and in partnership with faculty at area universities, including St. Louis Symphony professionals.
- We prepare students for admission to top graduate schools.
- Our music majors complete a senior capstone project in one of the following areas: performance, theory, composition, history, or music analysis.
- Principia is recognized as an All-Steinway School for its collection of high quality pianos.
- We offer lessons on our carillon and two world-class organs.
- Our students attend concerts at the St. Louis Symphony for free.
- Our recently renovated production studio features state-of-the-art recording equipment.
- We pair students with career-based internships in music and music production.
- Our students perform around the U.S. with Arts on Tour.
Abroads
Principia abroad programs are open to all majors, and students are encouraged to apply for any abroad program that interests them. All abroads involve individual research that students can tailor to their interests. The abroads to France, Austria, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Germany are popular among both music students and students interested in leadership in the arts, business, education, and other fields.
Note: See the College Catalog for more detailed information about our program and departmental learning outcomes.
