Hope's Department of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, and is rated in The College Finder as one of the best undergraduate music departments in the country.

The department makes rich contributions to the college and West Michigan communities, sponsoring approximately one hundred public events each year which are strongly supported by the community. In addition to presenting numerous student and faculty, solo and ensemble concerts, the department frequently brings prominent guest artists to campus to make solo appearances and teach master classes to Hope students.

Programs of Study

• Bachelor of Music in Performance
• Bachelor of Music in Performance (Jazz)
• Bachelor of Music in Vocal Music Education
• Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Music Education
• Bachelor of Arts in Music
• Minor in Music
• Minor in Jazz Studies

Non-music majors are encouraged to participate in ensembles, applied lessons, and music classes. Many music courses fulfill the General Education requirements for the Fine Arts.

Declaring a Music Major or Minor

Acceptance to Hope College, like many liberal arts colleges, allows the entering student to begin work toward any major offered on campus. Therefore, no audition for acceptance as a music major or minor is required prior to matriculation.

All first-year students enrolled concurrently in music theory and applied study are required to submit a music major or minor declaration at their first applied jury examination. Entering music students and a team of music faculty work together during the first semester to clarify students' educational goals, self-assessments, and curricular planning in preparation for the music major or minor declaration process.

Music Scholarships

Students intending to major or minor in music may audition for music scholarships on Saturday, February 16, 2008 and Saturday, February 23, 2008. Please explore the materials on this webpage for more details!