Woodwinds

Woodwind students at VCU study with world-class faculty. They are distinguished performers, leading educators, and mentors to our students. Through lessons, participation in chamber music and performance in large ensembles, our students benefit from a dynamic and collaborative environment rooted in exploration and growth. In addition, we offer masterclasses with renowned visiting artists and ensembles. Graduates from VCU are educators, artists, and entrepreneurs. Richmond is a vibrant city. Its creative energy is inspirational for students seeking musical and artistic careers.

At VCU, we focus on the undergraduate experience. You will be working with our professors who will guide you on your journey. Come visit and see for yourself! Attend a shadow day

Degrees Offered

The BM in Music Education is designed for those who plan to teach in a public school setting. The licensure you receive is valid in Virginia and 29 license-reciprocal states.

The Music Ed program includes classes in performance (lessons, orchestra, chamber music, masterclass), musicianship (theory, aural skills, history, music industry), music education (teaching techniques and methods), and general education requirements. Detailed degree requirements.

The Bachelor of Music in Performance is designed for those who want to become performing musicians. It includes performance classes (lessons, master class, orchestra, chamber music, etc.), musicianship classes (theory, aural skills, history, music industry), electives, and general education requirements. Most performance majors go on to graduate school for further study. Detailed degree requirements.

Performance majors often add minors to increase their earning power (minors, by the way, are declared after you start at VCU). Some popular minors are:

The Media Scoring major prepares you for a dynamic career as a composer for visual media. In addition to taking courses in performance, musicianship, and general education, media scoring majors take courses in composition techniques, digital audio, music production, plus orchestration and arranging.

For more information, please visit the media scoring page.

The Bachelor of Arts in Music is the most flexible music degree as it includes 30 open electives. Students tailor the degree to match their career goals. The degree includes 60 credits of core music (lessons, master class, orchestra, chamber music, theory, music history, etc.), 30 general education requirements, and 30 open electives. Detailed degree requirements.

Bachelor of Arts in Music majors are often interested in working in the broader music industry—retail, arts management, studio work, etc. BA majors commonly add minors to further career goals. We also have many BA students who complete a pre-med sequence. Some popular minors are: