OpportunitiesDepartment of Music

Gustavus has a place for every kind of musician with numerous opportunities to listen to amazing music, perform, and expand your musical skills. Gusties want to keep listening to good music and performing. There is an opportunity for every musician, and the calendar is filled with recitals, performances, and guest artists. Dive in and explore Gustavus's music.

Discover the Opportunities with Music

• Vocals Program The choral program provides a vibrant and integrated choral experience with a range of ensemble options, voice lessons, major concerts, and the highly anticipated Christmas in Christ Chapel service, students have numerous opportunities to develop their vocal skills, engage in meaningful performances, and contribute to the rich choral tradition at Gustavus.

• Winds Program The wind studies program places a strong emphasis on musical excellence and in a supportive community. Students are challenged to develop their technical skills and musicality through individual and ensemble rehearsals and performances. The program offers a wide variety of ensembles, catering to students with varying levels of commitment and musical interests.

• Jazz Program The jazz program provides a supportive and engaging environment for students to explore and study jazz music. Whether students aim to pursue a career in jazz or simply want to enhance their overall musicianship, the program offers a range of opportunities to develop technical proficiency, engage in creative expression, collaborate with fellow musicians, and appreciate the rich cultural tradition of jazz.

• Strings Program The strings program provides a supportive and enriching environment for students to explore and develop their passion for string music. Through ensemble participation, lessons, studio classes, and solo recitals, students can enhance their technical skills through a broad musical repertoire.

• Handbells Program The handbell choirs provide a welcoming and educational environment for students to engage with music. Regardless of experience level, students can find a place within the handbell choirs and explore different musical styles.

• Keyboards Program Studying piano or organ at Gustavus offers students the chance to develop their skills, deepen their skills and expand their musical repertoire. Students receive expert guidance from faculty members and numerous performance opportunities.

• Private Lessons Gustavus offers private lessons for musicians from all parts of the music program. You can receive individual guidance in one-on-one weekly lessons with dedicated and musically accomplished faculty.

• Junior and Senior Recitals A distinguishing feature of the music program at Gustavus is the opportunity for students to perform their own recital. This option is open to all student performers, not just music majors. Students work intensely in private lessons with a faculty member to prepare the repertoire of their choice. Often individuals involve other students to collaborate on pieces for their performance.

• Bjorling Music Scholarships The Bjorling Music Scholarship is an audition-based financial award given to support students continuing their participation in music while at Gustavus. learn more about the scholarship process and deadline

• Bjorling Music Festival Events The Gustavus Department of Music welcomes all high school students and directors to participate in Björling Music Festival events. Each festival day is dedicated to a different performance area: winds, jazz, strings, vocals, and handbells. The day includes opportunities to work with renowned guest artists, workshops to learn techniques, a performance, and the opportunity to learn more about being involved in music at the college level by interacting with students and faculty from Gustavus.