Minor in Music: Sacred Music

Course Overview

The minor in sacred music combines applied study, academic coursework, ensemble participation, and a supervised church practicum. You will build a foundation in music theory, sight singing and ear training, and music history, while also studying topics specific to church music such as service planning, hymnody, and liturgical practices. Applied work may include organ or another primary instrument, small ensemble experiences in organ and church music, and vocal coaching that support practical skills for worship leadership. As part of the capstone experience, you will complete MUSP 377 Church Practicum and Philosophy 1, where you apply your skills in a real church setting and examine contemporary issues in sacred music philosophy and practice. Throughout the minor, you will also meet recital attendance and performance requirements tracked through MUSC 499 Recital.

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What You’ll Learn

This program allows students to develop practical skills for planning and leading music in worship services including service playing, hymn leadership, and collaboration with clergy and congregations. Students will be able to strengthen their musicianship through coursework in music theory, sight singing, and ear training that supports confident score reading, transposition, and improvisation in church settings. You'll gain historical and stylistic understanding of sacred music traditions through music history and literature courses, connecting current worship practices to broader historical developments. Build applied performance skills on your primary instrument (often organ, piano, or voice) and through small ensembles focused on organ and church music, as well as vocal coaching where appropriate. Explore theological and philosophical perspectives on sacred music, considering how musical decisions interact with liturgy, congregational participation, and the mission of the worshiping community. Apply your learning in MUSP 377 Church Practicum and Philosophy 1 by working in an actual church context, gaining supervised experience that can include service playing, directing choirs, or assisting with worship planning.

What Majors Pair with This Minor

Because it blends strong musicianship with focused preparation for church and worship contexts, the Sacred Music minor is a strong complement to several majors. It is especially valuable for students who anticipate leadership roles in congregations or other faith based organizations.

Common pairings include:

• Religious Studies or Philosophy, where the minor provides practical and artistic tools to complement academic study of religion, theology, and ethics.
• Christian Ministries, Youth Ministry, or similar pre professional pathways, for students planning careers in ministry who wish to collaborate effectively with church musicians or lead music themselves.
• Majors in fields like Communication Studies or Nonprofit Management, for students interested in leadership, outreach, and administration in faith based or community organizations where worship and music play central roles.