The Bachelor of Music Education with an Instrumental Concentration prepares students to teach K-12 instrumental music. The program also can be used as a springboard for continued study in graduate school or career in private studio teaching. Our goal: to produce “musician educators,” graduates who are as proficient as entry-level professional musicians, who have the skill and background to bring music alive for their students, and who are active in music making in their communities through performing or composing.
The art of teaching music
First, students learn how to teach in a general sense; then, they undergo in-depth training in how to teach a wide range of instruments. The foundation for a strong background in learning how to teach begins in the College of Education, which equips students during their initial two years with the coursework required to become professional educators. Here, they learn how to prepare a lesson plan, for example. The last two years embrace intensive pedagogy on the “instrumental” part of the degree. Students learn about teaching in schools and studios (private lessons), performing both in professional and community venues, arranging and composing, as well as conducting. In addition, they develop their ability to perform on major and secondary instruments, to create and analyze music (theory), and to understand the broad spectrum of music genres (history).
Master teachers and field experience
The program is backed by an outstanding faculty and a national reputation. Students are paired with master teachers to help them prepare for teaching in their area of interest. These master teachers not only offer specific instrumental expertise but also function as role models.
Field experience is an important part of the program. Approximately 100 hours of field experience, or internship, is the norm. This experience includes time in the classroom with educators at high schools and middle schools, followed by a full semester of student teaching. For example, students interested in band music may work with local high schools with marching band programs.
The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, which sets the standards for music programs across the country. Also, Anderson University sponsors a local chapter of the National Association for Music Educators, which offers workshops and clinics as well as leadership opportunities for students.
Campus music ensembles
On-campus opportunities to apply what you’re learning are plentiful, too. You can become part of the Anderson University Wind Symphony, String Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and West African Ensemble. We also have chamber ensembles for the following instrument groups: String, Woodwinds, Brass, Guitar, Percussion, and Keyboard.
Your career…and ministry
The Bachelor of Music Education with an Instrumentation Concentration has a high job placement rate for graduates. Because of their preparation coupled with their personal initiative, students with this degree have earned Teacher of the Year awards with individual schools and school districts across the state. In addition, they have become leaders in professional organizations, such as the South Carolina Music Association.
This degree is an ideal fit for Christians who are also musicians – students who wish to minister though making music for Christ, leading worship services, and teaching at Christian schools. They are uniquely equipped to influence their students, colleagues, and the community for Christ.