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School of Music

College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences

School of Music

College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences

Take Your Passion for Music to the Next Level

Eastern Kentucky University’s School of Music at Eastern Kentucky University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that are certified by the National Association of Schools of Music, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. A hub for music education and performance, the School of Music presents over 100 concerts annually, including faculty concerts and recitals, ensemble performances, masterclasses, and performances and clinics by guest artists.

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School of Music Degrees & Certificates

Undergraduate Programs

graduate Programs

Minors

Why Study Music?

Regardless of your musical skill level, the study of music offers numerous psychological and social benefits. In addition to serving as a creative outlet, music has been shown to teach discipline, promote teamwork, and improve memory. Music can lead to a fulfilling career that touches the lives of students and audience members alike, no matter which path you choose.

EKU music students can study with a dedicated faculty of performing musicians and scholars. Main campus facilities include an excellent music technology lab with 24 iMac computer stations, recording and studio engineering software and equipment, a keyboard lab, an extensive music library, three concert halls, and numerous practice rooms.

EKU students perform with award-winning ensembles that are regularly invited to national and international festivals and competitions. They study with nationally-recognized and award-winning faculty, guest artists, and clinicians. Approximately 300 undergraduate and graduate students from across the university perform in EKU music ensembles. All ensembles are open to EKU students. Regardless of your major, you can continue to pursue your musical passions at EKU with the flexibility to do as little or as much as you desire.

Some ensembles require auditions, and others are open to all students of the university who register. Auditions are scheduled at the beginning of each semester. Some ensembles include scholarships.

  • Athletic Bands: Marching Colonels, Maroon Machine
  • Chamber Ensembles: Bluegrass Ensemble, Jazz Ensembles, Jazz Combos, Guitar Ensemble, EKos (a capella), Musical Theatre, Opera, Steel Band
  • Choirs: EnChor (soprano and alto), Koros (tenor and bass), University Singers
  • Concert Bands: Wind Ensemble, Concert Band
  • Orchestra: Symphony Orchestra

Student Stories & Features

Andrew Hakenewerth

EKU Music Performance Graduate
Earning my Masters Degree at Eastern Kentucky University was everything for me. My dream was to teach music in higher education, and that would not be possible without a masters degree. For myself, Eastern Kentucky was paramount in my learning and networking, because without my time spent at EKU, I would not have had the opportunity to continue my doctorate at the University of Kansas, and then have the job I enjoy now.

Amanda Tipton

EKU Music Education Graduate
Earning my Masters degree at EKU gave me the opportunity to learn more about the theory side of education, while also giving me the freedom to dive into aspects of music education that interested me the most. During my final project, I was able to do a deep dive into five different comprehensive music education curriculums and that knowledge was instrumental in helping me to feel prepared for my new role as a full time general music educator. The faculty at EKU are some of the most caring educators I’ve had the fortune of meeting. I always felt supported by…

LeMorris Hunt

EKU Music Conducting Student
The EKU faculty aided in my success because I was very prepared for the work force in my degree area. I was given many of the updated skills and teaching techniques in the field to help me stand out in any interview process. I was also given tips and points on how I could build my resume and portfolio. EKU is a great place to learn and grow. You get a first class education without the first class prices. The music department has great professors who have a thriving career but are not untouchable.

School of Music Mission

Mission

We provide a relevant and comprehensive music curriculum through individualized attention and student-centered learning.

We create a diverse community of musical leaders for the 21st Century who will enhance the fabric of their society, the Commonwealth, and beyond, through the power of music.

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Upcoming Events

Halls Open

Residence Halls Open for the Spring 2025 semester. Front desks begin normal operating hours.

Check-In Deadline

Check-in deadline for all returning and new students for spring 2025. For late return/check-in, contact our office at 859-622-1515.
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News & Updates

Provost’s Faculty Internship Program Welcomes New Cohort

The Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Provost’s Faculty Internship Program develops leadership skills and complements leadership endeavors among faculty by supporting individual development while assisting university-wide academic initiatives. Established by EKU […]

EKU Names 2024 Society of Foundation Professors

While this year Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) celebrates 150 years of teaching in the Commonwealth, every year for almost four decades EKU recognizes the faculty who demonstrate the highest standards […]

Contact Information

School of Music

521 Lancaster Avenue
Foster 101
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-3266
music@eku.edu

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