College of Visual and Performing Arts
Curriculum
The performance program stresses the development of technical skills, repertory, poise and overall musicianship. Since most performers continue study beyond the bachelor’s degree, the program also provides a sound basis for advanced study.
Performance majors complete requirements that demonstrate skills in the following areas: Principal Performance Area (Lower Division Sequence), Secondary Performance Area/Keyboard Competency (Lower Division Sequence), Harmony and Analysis (Lower Division Sequence), Aural Skills and Analysis (Lower Division Sequence), Ensemble Performance (Lower Division Sequence), History and Repertoire (Lower Division Sequence), Principal Performance Area (Upper Division Sequence), Ensemble Performance (Upper Division Sequence), Music Conducting (Upper Division Sequence).
They also complete the following:
Performance Major Sophomore Evaluation
- Demonstrate skills for functional and artistic self-expression at the appropriate level.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform a cross-section of repertoire.
Performance Major Junior Recital
- Demonstrate skills for functional and artistic self-expression at the appropriate level.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform a cross-section of repertoire.
Performance Major Senior Recital
- Demonstrate skills for functional and artistic self-expression at the appropriate level.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform a cross-section of repertoire.
Extracurricular Opportunities
London Semester
Spend a semester at Syracuse University’s center in London, England, or explore another study abroad destination through Syracuse Abroad, which offers more than 100 programs in over 60 countries.
Gilbert Week
In Setnor's Gilbert Week immersion program, students learn about career opportunities in music by meeting and learning from arts professionals and visiting some of the world’s leading performing arts institutions and organizations. Gilbert Week is held during Spring Break in a different city each year; past locations include New York City; Los Angeles; and Austin, Texas.
Music Fraternities and Sororities
The Setnor School is home to four professional and service fraternities and sororities devoted to music and musicians: Sigma Alpha Iota, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. They provide valuable service to the Setnor School and the community.
A Cappella Ensembles
Syracuse University’s six a cappella ensembles are entirely student-run and directed, performing with voice and vocal percussion. Groups perform contemporary songs using student-written arrangements for a wide array of audiences. Each group hosts auditions at least once a year. The groups perform at their own invitationals, participate in community and student engagement performances and host a joint event every semester.
Learn more about this program