Bachelor of Arts Music
The Ambrose Bachelor of Arts in Music is the program in which you can focus on developing your musical knowledge while receiving the support and mentorship of award-winning instructors in a close-knit environment. You will receive broad-based instruction in music theory, music history, music and culture, and performance, all of which will prepare you for a successful career.
The Bachelor of Arts in Music is for those looking to pursue music education, music retail, worship arts, composition, conducting, musical theatre, or any related career path.
The Bachelor of Arts in Music degree is offered as a three-year, 90-credit concentration or a four-year, 120-credit major. This timeline is based on a full course load (15 credits/semester). Most courses are three credits. To be considered a full-time student, you must be taking 9-15 credits per semester.
Research and Performance
Ambrose also offers specialized courses in music theory and musicology where you can explore theoretical analysis and music in historical and contemporary culture. Music students regularly present their work at the annual Ambrose Research Conference and go on to study in graduate programs across Canada and the U.S.
As an Ambrose music student, your performance opportunities include: singing with a choral program which has toured across Canada and Europe; the chance to audition as a concerto soloist with the Ambrose Chamber Orchestra; placements in jazz combos; and opportunities for mentorship in chamber music or conducting. You also have the opportunity to perform and collaborate with other artists from the Ambrose Acting and Dance programs. Through these experiences, you will begin to build your professional network in this close community while learning from accomplished teachers and performers.
Pursue a variety of career goals:
- Music education
- Music retail
- worship arts
- composition
- conducting
- musical theatre
The Bachelor of Arts in Music degree is offered as a three-year, 90-credit concentration or a four-year, 120-credit major. This timeline is based on a full course load (15 credits/semester). Most courses are three credits. To be considered a full-time student, you must be taking 9-15 credits per semester.
Prepare for a notable career in music performance, education, therapy or ministry. Here is a sampling of the jobs our alumni have pursued with this degree or entered through further studies:
- Performance musician
- Conductor
- Music therapist
- Musicologist
- Sound engineering
"I have found the principles of Christianity to be very beneficial in managing people. Everyone needs grace and forgiveness. Learning more about the Christian faith and the unfathomable depth of God’s love and mercy helped me develop my leadership from a biblical perspective."
From a survey of Ambrose alumni
Featured Courses
MU 275 Fundamentals Of Music Technology
An introduction to the current technology for creating, recording, and producing music. Students will explore recording hardware and software, MIDI-based devices, Digital Audio Workstations (DAW), various audio file formats, basic acoustics, studio recording techniques, and music notation programs while learning to record their own work.
MU 312 Advanced Conducting
A continuation of MU 212, dealing with the development of more complex conducting techniques. Topics include a study of rehearsal techniques, score preparation, repertory choice, and practical laboratory experience.
MU 308 Popular Music From 1945 To The Present
An inquiry into the various popular music styles of North America and Europe. This course will focus on popular musical practices, the connection to cultural movements, the use of various elements of music making, and significant performers in each style.
MU 309 Music and Culture
A topics-based course which explores music from different genres, time periods, and styles in order to develop critical thinking skills related to music's relationship to culture.
MU 337 Composition And Arranging
An applied course comprising structured composition projects for a variety of ensembles. Includes a focus on instrumental ranges, characteristics, and techniques.