Bachelor of Arts in Music: Piano Performance Emphasis

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Overview

Explore Piano Performance Techniques, Theory and History

Elevate your musical journey with our Bachelor of Arts in Music with an Emphasis in Piano Performance degree at Grand Canyon University. The piano, known for its grace and beauty, is a powerful instrument capable of producing music that can encapsulate a complex array of emotions. Through private instruction and numerous performance opportunities, aspiring pianists can lay a solid foundation and help develop the skills for a potential career in music.

You will explore advanced coursework that aims to provide foundational knowledge in music theory and history. Applied practice can equip you to command the stage as a potentially distinguished pianist in various ensemble settings. If you are interested in a well-rounded liberal arts education that emphasizes music and performance, this degree may be right for you.

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Why GCU

Earn Your BA in Music With an Emphasis in Piano Performance

At GCU, you have the opportunity to turn your passion for music into a professional career. Offered by the College of Arts and Media, this BA music program with an emphasis in piano is devoted to shaping poised professionals who may excel in their musical craft and work toward captivating audiences with their mastery of the keys. Knowledgeable faculty will help fine-tune your skills as a pianist and assist you in developing familiarity with the stage.

Opportunities are available, including solo recitals and options to play as part of accomplished ensembles. Students who wish to pursue a focus in piano performance from GCU are required to undergo an audition and to complete a music theory assessment prior to acceptance.

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Study Piano Performance on GCU Campus

Immerse yourself in the world of music with our on-campus piano performance program. In addition to earning a music education, the GCU campus offers a campus experience where you can engage in various cultural and artistic events, further enriching your musical journey. You will have the opportunity to make lasting connections with knowledgeable instructors and like-minded musicians while immersing yourself in a vibrant campus community. 

Coursework

Study Piano Course Topics and Concepts

The focus on piano performance can emphasize the practical application of skills, blended with purposeful classroom instruction. Graduates can emerge with a solid framework of music knowledge that ranges from history to theory to composition. The sequential curriculum is designed to empower you by building foundational skills before moving on to advanced concepts and public recitals. 

You will be expected to work on performance issues through coaching and improving collaborative skills such as ensemble balance. In addition, the Canyon Chorale and the Canyon Choral Society may provide opportunities to perform at churches, schools and other venues throughout the Phoenix and Tucson areas.

In this program, you will be taught piano performance techniques and take core piano courses that address the following topic areas:

  • The fundamentals and piano technique, including score reading, transpositions and collaborative piano techniques
  • The study of beginner fundamentals of piano teaching, including survey, analysis, classification, and evaluation of beginning piano methods and principles of studio management and planning
  • The standard piano repertoire from baroque to modern periods using reading and listening assignments
  • The structure of music, including harmony, melody, form and rhythm through the use of computer-assisted ear training

Through intensive private instruction, you will be expected to give formal solo recitals during your junior and senior years.

“Through the Fog” Alumni Performance

At Sunset Auditorium on Jan. 10, 2024, GCU alum Brenden Sorensen delivered a poignant performance on the piano while sharing his personal narrative of grappling with Usher syndrome, a condition affecting his vision and hearing. The collaborative effort between the College of Arts and Media and the Usher Syndrome Society underscored the importance of Sorensen's message and his artistic contributions.

Through the Fog
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Careers

Career Paths for Graduates With a Piano Performance Focus

Earn the chance to enrich the lives of those around you through public piano performances. As an aspiring solo musician or composer, you might pursue opportunities at performance centers or entertainment agencies. Other career choices that may be related to this degree include musicians and singers.

For the musicians who want to share their love of piano in a professional setting, GCU’s bachelor’s in music with a piano performance emphasis can help you get there. 

Accreditation

Get Your BA in Music at an Accredited University

GCU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. Earning your BA in music: piano emphasis at an accredited university is a step in your musical career story. Accreditation can help ensure that you receive a quality education, recognized and respected in the field. With a focus on comprehensive music education, our institutionally accredited university can provide you with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed in the world of music. 

FAQ

Bachelor of Arts in Music: Piano Performance Emphasis FAQs

Before deciding on a music degree, you may have some questions about the program or your potential and future career path. Review our list of frequently asked questions and answers to better understand the program.

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Start Your Journey Today

Ready to unlock your musical potential? Take the next step toward your Bachelor of Arts in Music with a Piano Performance Emphasis. Explore your passion, refine your skills and chart your course in the world of music.

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