News
Undergraduate Courses
The Department of Music aims to broaden the exposure to and enrich the understanding of the various musical traditions of the world. Courses in the department address the materials of tonal music in the Western tradition, the analysis of individual works, the study of composers and genres, non-Western and vernacular repertories, musical composition, critical approaches to music, and the role of music in society.
Alumni
For nearly 90 years, the University of Chicago Department of Music has prepared graduates to be leaders in the creation and study of music, both historical and contemporary. Graduates of the Department's PhD program hold professorships and lead scholarship in many of the pre-eminent universities, research, and music institutions around the world.
We invite you to visit these pages for the latest news from Department of Music alumni, and to stay connected through in-person and virtual events.
Events
Concerto Competition
The Department of Music holds a biennial Concerto Competition, open to all registered students at the University and to all members of the performance ensembles.
Additional Opportunities
The Department of Music offers a variety of additional performance opportunities beyond traditional ensembles and coursework. Students can participate in various forms of musical expression, gaining valuable experience in diverse musical settings. These opportunities are designed to enhance artistic development, encourage collaboration, and support students in refining their performance skills while engaging with the broader musical community.
Music Lessons & Lesson Awards
The Department of Music maintains a growing roster of experienced private instructors available to teach University of Chicago students on campus. Our affiliated private instructors hold advanced degrees from such prestigious conservatories as Indiana University, the Juilliard School, the Ryan Opera Center, the Manhattan School of Music, Paris Conservatoire, San Francisco Conservatory, and more. Many of the Performance Program Directors teach private lessons, in addition to leading the various ensembles and programs.
Practice Rooms
The Department of Music offers dedicated practice rooms designed to support students' musical growth and daily study. These spaces are equipped for a variety of instruments and ensembles, providing a comfortable and focused environment for honing technical skills, rehearsing repertoire, and preparing for performances.
Auditions
Participation in Department of Music ensembles and activities is, in most cases, by audition. Your audition helps the Performance Program directors get to know you and your musicianship, enabling them to match you with the performance opportunities best suited to you.
Three ensembles do not require an audition: the Afro-Cuban Folkloric Ensemble, the Early Music Ensemble, and the South Asian Music Ensemble. These ensembles host open house rehearsals at the beginning of the Autumn Quarter that allow students to explore their performance opportunities.
Performance
Dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of music, UChicago’s vibrant Performance Program provides UChicago students from all backgrounds and academic programs with an exceptional environment for artistic inspiration and musical growth.