Sacred Music Major

Music Department Chair: Prof. Dennis Gowen

Program Director: Prof. Thomas Mortenson

Degree Type: Bachelor of Music

The Bachelor of Music in Sacred Music degree prepares students with a liberal arts degree in music and a minor in Liturgy. Students in this major may serve as church musicians, continue in graduate studies in music or theology, or complement another undergraduate degree with a double major.

Department Mission

The University of Mary Music Department is a learning community that transforms students into artists and educators, excelling in musical performance and pedagogy through individual instruction, comprehensive curricula, and diverse performance opportunities. We prepare graduates to be servant leaders in their chosen careers.

Department Outcomes

Graduates of this department:

• Assess their own musical endeavors based on a thorough knowledge of music theory and history, aural discrimination, and sight-reading and keyboard skills 
• Perform with artistry
• Direct musical groups with artistic integrity
• Develop a technical, creative, and intuitive approach to the musical profession
• Apply music technology in performance, studio, and educational settings
• Demonstrate respect and work effectively with others
• Articulate the values of this Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine institution and reflect on them in their work
• Contribute to their civic, cultural, and professional communities
• Know the teachings of the church regarding sacred music and apply them with musical excellence and pastoral care (BM Sacred Music)
• Plan and implement effective and developmentally appropriate lessons and curricula based upon sound principles of content knowledge, skill development, and pedagogy (BS Music Education)
• Demonstrate an understanding of repertoire, performance practices, audition procedures, and pedagogical techniques that enable them to succeed in the next stage of their career development (BM Performance)
• Demonstrate an understanding and awareness of current trends related to their area of specialization and maintain career-oriented portfolios including resume, photos, and media (BS Music)

The University of Mary Music Program is accredited as an Associate Member of the National Association of Schools of Music.