Bachelor of Music in Keyboard Performance

The Bachelor of Music in Keyboard Performance offers students the opportunity to pursue a degree which is focused upon historical and contemporary classical keyboard music, which may include studies of the music of Jazz. As in the case of every major, Keyboard Performance has a strong Biblical, academic, and theoretical foundation. Performance degrees represent the highest standards of professional studies, including the history, theory, pedagogy and practice of many genres of music.

Why Study Keyboard Performance at Nyack College?

• Students who study Keyboard Performance will have access to some of the finest venues and artists in the world, including some who are on our faculty.
• Students will enjoy a valuable academic program which will give them versatility and opportunity in their future graduate program or career choices.
• Students will be nurtured in a Christian atmosphere in which they will find encouragement on their way to fulfillment.
• Students will have an opportunity to explore and perform many types of music and to study with top scholars within the context of a State-accredited private institution.
• Students will make lifelong friends and important interconnections in the world of music in general and piano music in particular.

At a Glance

• Credits: 120 Standard
• Completion Time: 4 years
• Accreditation: New York State Board of Regents, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, National Association of Schools of Music

What Will I Study as a Keyboard Performance Major?

As a Keyboard Performance Major, you will study communication skills and the keyboard skills which will enable you to have a long and fruitful career in your chosen field. Together with your Nyack Core Curriculum, you will also study the history, methods, and practice of keyboard performance, including:

• Literature and Materials of Music (an integrated Music History, Theory Mathematics, Science, and cultural sequence)
• Jazz/Gospel Harmony
• Conducting
• Composition
• Private lessons in Piano, Organ, or Harpsichord
• Pedagogy (how to teach)
• Music Technology
• Accompanying and Collaborative Piano
• Chamber Music

Additionally, you will perform with elite music ensembles and you will be required to do a Junior Recital of approximately one-half hour in length and a Senior Recital of approximately one hour in length.