Minor in Music: Voice

Course Overview

The minor in voice provides a structured sequence of applied voice study, ensemble participation, and foundational coursework in music theory, music history, and piano, totaling 24 credits. You will receive weekly private lessons that focus on healthy vocal technique, diction, and expressive performance, while also gaining experience in choral and other large ensembles. Supporting coursework in theory and history deepens your understanding of musical style and structure, and basic piano study strengthens your musicianship and practice skills. Throughout the program, you will be expected to attend weekly recitals and a series of concert events, and you will participate in School of Music ensembles as an integral part of your training.

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What You’ll Learn

Develop a healthy and flexible vocal technique suitable for a wide range of musical styles, with emphasis on breath management, tone production, and resonance. Build practical skills in lyric diction, musical phrasing, and expressive communication in performance settings such as juries, recitals, and ensemble concerts. Strengthen core musicianship through studies in music theory, sight-reading, and aural skills that support more confident learning and preparation of repertoire. Gain historical and stylistic context for vocal literature through music history coursework, connecting what you sing to broader cultural and artistic movements. Improve functional piano skills that help you rehearse independently, coach with collaborators, and better understand harmonic structure in your repertoire. Learn professional expectations for singers in rehearsals and performances, including ensemble etiquette, score preparation, and collaboration with conductors, coaches, and peers.

What Majors Pair with This Minor

Because it combines focused vocal study with broad musicianship, the Voice minor pairs well with a variety of degree programs. It can complement careers that value confident public communication, artistic literacy, and collaborative skills.

Common pairings include:

• Theatre Creation, where enhanced vocal technique and repertoire preparation support audition readiness and performance versatility.
• Speech Pathology or Communication Studies, for students interested in voice, speech, and presentation who want deeper insight into vocal production and performance.
• Education majors (elementary, secondary, or other content areas) who wish to strengthen their singing for classroom use, school performances, or community music activities.
• Majors in fields such as English, modern languages, and other humanities disciplines, where engagement with text, culture, and performance can enrich academic and creative work.