Department of
Music

Why Study Music?

Why Study Music at PLU?

Great People

Distinguished teachers, talented students, supportive public: These are the great people who make the Department of Music at PLU a nationally recognized center for musical learning, serving and sharing.

A talented, cohesive faculty of performers, composers and authors, drawn from the nation's finest conservatories and universities, work to develop the whole person in the context of a caring academic community of outstanding students and enthusiastic audiences.

Great Place

The natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest, the cultural richness of the greater Tacoma-Seattle area, the beautiful campus centrally located in the south Puget Sound—these define our great place on the map.

The Mary Baker Russell Music Center, with its exquisite Lagerquist Concert Hall and state-of-the-art rehearsal and learning facilities, is an architectural and aesthetic jewel carefully set amid majestic trees. These elements define our great place on campus.

But most importantly, our great place is where the art and industry of music—incredible music—fill each and every day. At PLU, music has become a way of life.

Music to hear

More than 140 concerts every year present students, faculty artists and exciting guest performers in an incredible array of musical styles and media. Choral, band, symphonic, operatic, solo, chamber, jazz—we have it all.

Music to do

Open to the entire campus community, more than a dozen performing groups tackle music of all eras and styles. Whether it's Bach, Beethoven, Bernstein or Basie, you'll have an unforgettable hands-on experience.

Music to learn

Study in the classroom, studio, lab and rehearsal hall. We offer as much music as you want: Formal degree programs, music minors, or just a great lesson every week. If you love music, you belong at PLU!

Additional Opportunities for Music Majors

Performing Ensembles

Vocal
Choir of the West*
University Chorale*
University Singers* (women)
Men's Chorus
Chapel Choir
Choral Union (community)
Opera Workshop

Instrumental
University Symphony Orchestra*
University Wind Ensemble*
University Jazz Ensemble*
University Concert Band

Chamber Music Ensembles
Strings, Brass, Woodwind, Guitar and Percussion
Early Music, Steel Drum
Jazz Combos

* Touring ensembles

Areas of Emphasis

Bachelor of Music in Performance

For dedicated musicians seeking the highest professional goals and achievement. Concentrations in:

  • Instrumental Performance
  • Piano Performance
  • Organ Performance
  • Vocal Performance
  • Composition

Bachelor of Music Education

For those seeking to teach music in the public schools:

  • Choral
  • Band
  • Orchestra

Bachelor of Musical Arts

For those seeking a broad, liberal arts education with an emphasis on music.

Bachelor of Arts in Music

Music Minors - General and Specialized


Click here for more on majors, minors and courses. Pacific Lutheran University's Department of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.