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The Bachelor of Music (BM or B.Mus.) is a four-year undergraduate music degree that is offered by music schools, colleges, and universities. It normally takes four years of full-time study to complete and is composed of compulsory subjects such as music theory, the history of music, private lessons, and participation in ensembles, and other optional subjects that can be chosen from a range of options including composition, conducting, music education or performance. Students learn and practice musically, learn new pieces, practice playing and rehearsing, learn about various styles and compositions, as well as receive important knowledge for a future career in music.
The requirements for qualifying for admission into a Bachelor of Music program differ with the institution but usually involves an audition on the major instrument or voice. Other applications may include portfolio of compositions, written statements regarding musical experience and interest, academic transcripts reflecting good grades/schooling, SAT or ACT scores that prove verbal, written and mathematics output, letters of recommendations that discuss musical ability and achievements. The specific demands vary depending on the school and the degree focus. The end result is to assess each potential student in musical abilities to see if they could succeed and be valuable in the program.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Bachelor of Music |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Course Level | Undergraduate |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent with music as a subject (often required) |
| Top Colleges | Trinity College of Music, London, Berklee College of Music, Boston, University of Music and Performing Arts, Vienna, Indian Music Colleges (e.g., Bhatkhande Music Institute, Gandharva Mahavidyalaya) |
| Entrance Exam | Varies by college, often includes a practical performance, theory exam, and interview |
1. Pass Matriculation or equivalent examinations with above 50% marks in any stream from a recognized board or university.
2. Score a pass in an entrance examination administered by the university/college or a national level test. While some institutes have their own admission tests, the others accept national tests.
3. Assist musicianship by sitting for an audition or practical examination. This assesses skills, vocal acoustics, instrumental mastery, music notation literacy and other qualities.
4. In case you have formally learnt music, submit previous music certification or grades to avail of the opportunity.
5. Provide character/migration certificates and other academic documents that the college may require from their students.
6. Satisfy any other requirements that the college may consider concerning age, subjects offered in 10+2, and others Some institutions ease the rules for the talented candidates.
| Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Music Theory | Fundamentals of music notation, Scales and chords, Harmony and counterpoint, Music analysis, Aural skills |
| Music History | Western music history (e.g., Classical, Baroque, Romantic periods), Indian music history (e.g., Hindustani classical, Carnatic music), World music traditions, Music and society |
| Performance | Individual instruction on a chosen instrument (e.g., piano, violin, guitar), Vocal training (if applicable), Ensemble performance (e.g., choir, orchestra), Performance techniques and stage presence |
| Music Electives (may vary) | Music composition, Music production, Ethnomusicology, Jazz studies, Music education |
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Music Teacher (K-12) | 48,000 |
| Music Professor (College/University) | 65,000 |
| Music Performer (Freelance) | 30,000 |
| Composer (Film/TV/Video Games) | 52,000 |
| Audio Engineer | 45,000 |
| Music Therapist | 50,000 |
| Arts Administrator | 42,000 |
