Sacred Music
Overview
Sacred music programs teach people to appreciate and perform devotional music.Sacred music programs include topics such as:
- Music theory
- Music history
- Religion
- Solo and ensemble performance
Most sacred music programs allow students to choose between vocal performance or musical instruments.
Concentrations
In sacred music programs, students may be able to focus on:
- Performing
- Conducting
- Composing
- Music and liturgies for church services
Schools
A few community colleges offer associate degree programs in sacred music. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years to complete.
Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs. Usually, they are part of the school of music or associated with the divinity school. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.
Several universities offer graduate degrees in sacred music. If you want to teach college or direct research programs, you will need a doctoral degree. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Keyboard Instruments
- Ministry
- Music Composition and Theory
- Music History
- Music, General
- Musicology and Ethnomusicology
- Pastoral Studies and Counseling
- Rabbinical and Talmudic Studies
- Religious Education
- Religious Studies
- Stringed Instruments
- Theology and Pre-Theology
- Voice and Opera Performance
- Woodwinds, Brass, and Percussion Music Performance
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Many programs require a separate admission process in addition to applying to the school. Usually this means a taped or live audition and brief interview. In addition, many schools require you to take a placement test to determine your level of music knowledge.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Band
- Chorus
- Contemporary Band
- Individual Technique, Instrumental Music
- Individual Technique, Vocal Music
- Instrumental Ensembles
- Music History and Appreciation
- Music Theory
- Orchestra
- Vocal Ensembles
Graduate Admissions
Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree in music, good grades, good test scores, and skills in performing, conducting, or composition.
Additional requirements at some schools include:
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
- Letters of recommendation
- Audition and personal interview
- Documented musical repertoire
- Writing sample
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Composition and Arrangement
- Conducting
- Hymnody
- Music Education
- Music Ensembles
- Music History
- Music Literature
- Music Theory
- Organ, Piano, or Other Instrument
- Recital
- Religion
- Sacred Music
- Vocal Performance
Things to Know
Religion majors who focus on sacred music often attend seminary after they complete a bachelor's degree. Seminary programs lead to degrees such as master or doctor of divinity.
Many programs require or encourage performances and recitals. Often your performances are critiqued.
Most schools encourage you to join the orchestra, band, or several types of choirs. Many schools have gospel, a cappella, and men's and women's choirs.
In many programs, you can plan and lead worship and chapel services.
In some programs, you learn about the sacred music of many religions or peoples.
Schools
King-Snohomish Area
Northwest University
- Worship & Music Studies
Spokane Area
Whitworth University
- Music--Music Ministry