John Dally
208.467.8755
jdally@nnu.edu
Music Performance
At Northwest Nazarene University, the Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance equips you to pursue excellence in your art while growing deeply in your faith. Whether your passion is piano, voice, or instrumental performance, you’ll receive professional training from accomplished faculty who are active performers and dedicated mentors. With abundant performance opportunities in a Christ-centered community, NNU prepares you to inspire, teach, lead, and make a lasting difference through the power of music.
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PERSONALIZED MENTORSHIP: Learn one-on-one from faculty who actively perform with the Boise Philharmonic, Opera Idaho, Idaho Shakespeare Festival and more.
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ABUNDANT PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES: From choir and orchestra to jazz ensembles and chamber groups, students perform in diverse settings every semester.
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FAITH + EXCELLENCE: NNU’s Music Department vision unites artistic mastery with spiritual growth, preparing graduates for careers, graduate study and service through music.
Perform with Purpose. Lead with Impact.
Graduates of NNU’s Music Performance program step confidently into a wide range of careers where artistry, leadership and purpose intersect. Grounded in rigorous training and shaped by a Christ-centered approach to creativity, they are prepared not only to excel on stage but also to make a lasting difference in the world around them. Whether leading worship, teaching and mentoring future musicians, performing professionally with ensembles, contributing to the arts and entertainment industry, or using their music to build community and inspire change, NNU alumni are equipped to transform their passion into meaningful work — work that enriches culture, elevates the human experience and reflects the power of music to move hearts and shape lives.
The Music Performance degree at NNU is designed to help you develop your craft at the highest level, with focused study in piano, voice or instrumental performance. Through intensive applied instruction and mentorship, you’ll prepare for a dynamic career as a performer—on stage as a soloist or ensemble member, in private studio teaching, or through continued study at the graduate level.
At NNU, your education extends far beyond the classroom. Our program is built on four foundational pillars — Academic Excellence, Artistic Excellence, Character & Calling, and Service — ensuring that you grow not only as a skilled musician but also as a thoughtful artist and leader. You’ll hone your skills through masterclasses, regular recitals, culminating performances, collaborative projects and featured performance roles within our ensembles and productions. Along the way, you’ll explore a rich spectrum of repertoire, from classical and jazz to contemporary works and sacred traditions.
Through this blend of rigorous training, professional mentorship, and spiritual formation — and by pursuing artistic excellence in meaningful, high-impact performance settings — NNU’s Music Performance program prepares you to excel in your art and use it to shape culture, inspire others and serve the world.
degree details
Bachelor of Arts
On Campus
The Benefits of Our Bachelor’s Degree in Music
- Gain a holistic, comprehensive understanding of the creative and performance aspects of music
- Learn from experienced faculty in small class sizes
- Develop the technical knowledge to be successful in the music industry
- Prepare for the future by learning skills necessary in an ever-changing environment
- Participate in recitals, concerts and ensembles on campus
- Develop excellence in creating, performing and appreciating music
- Access interdisciplinary curriculum with a choice of emphasis to suit your career goals
- Benefit from being part of a vibrant musical program and tight-knit Christian community
- Receive faculty mentorship and support on the path to achieving your dreams
Our Goals for Music Majors
- Obtain a music degree that is balanced with a spiritual foundation
- Discover and unlock your talents with specialized guidance from dedicated music faculty
- Cultivate a deeper spiritual understanding and appreciation of music
- Hone your stage presence and confidence with exposure to a variety of performance settings
- Become a successful team leader and collaborator
- Incorporate the arts into meaningful worship experiences
- Discover God-given gifts through musical exploration in our challenging, nurturing environment
- Gain a vast repertoire of musical styles, skills and techniques
- Acquire performance and teaching skills that will prepare you for future job opportunities
Career Paths For Music Degree Graduates
From becoming a music therapist to working as a music teacher, there are a range of rewarding careers available to music majors. You could also try your hand at music journalism, music production or music marketing. The possibilities are endless, and with your passion and skills, you will surely make a successful career in an industry you love.
Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports and Media Occupations
Worship Director
Meet the Team
Dominic Furiani
Adjunct Professor of Music
Allison Emerick
Flute Instructor
Carmen Izzo
Clarinet Instructor
Rodney Zuroeveste
Professor of Saxophone and Art History
Ted Stearns
Trumpet Instructor
Tom Dale
Trombone Instructor
Geoffrey Trabichoff
Violin Instructor
Jake Saunders
Cellist Instructor
Chris Ammirati
Upright Bass Instructor
Linda Elliot Schmidt
Voice Instructor
Related Programs & Degrees
Music Performance
Bachelor of Arts
Music Education
Bachelor of Arts
Commercial Music
Bachelor of Arts
Frequently Asked Questions About Pursuing a Music Degree at NNU
Discover your potential at NNU’s music program! Feel confident exploring Northwest Nazarene University, as we have a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to answer any student inquiries.
What career options will I have with a bachelor's degree in music from NNU?
Northwest Nazarene University’s bachelor’s degree in music program offers diverse career paths that cater to different interests and talents in the music industry.
One potential path is performance. As a graduate, you may become a solo artist, join an ensemble or work as a studio musician. You could perform in various settings, such as orchestras, bands and choirs, or as a solo artist across genres, including classical, jazz, pop or contemporary music.
If you’re interested in composition, your music degree can lead to opportunities as a composer for film, television, video games or other multimedia platforms. Alternatively, you could work as an arranger or songwriter.
For those passionate about education, our music graduates often become music teachers in elementary, middle or high schools, sharing their love for music with the next generation. Opportunities also exist to work as private music instructors or music directors in community organizations.
A unique field that some of our graduates have pursued is music therapy. As a music therapist, you would use music to help individuals improve their physical, emotional and cognitive well-being.
Lastly, if you’re interested in the organizational side of the arts, you could explore careers in arts administration. Roles could include concert manager, talent agent or arts program coordinator.
A bachelor’s degree in music from NNU provides a broad array of career options in the music industry, enabling you to follow your passion and make a significant impact in your chosen field.
What are the benefits of earning a bachelor of music degree at NNU over other universities?
Choosing to earn a Bachelor of Music degree at Northwest Nazarene University offers numerous benefits that set it apart from other institutions.
- NNU’s music program is designed to cultivate excellence in creating, performing and appreciating music. This multidisciplinary approach ensures you develop a versatile skillset, enabling you to thrive in various areas within the music industry.
- Another standout feature of NNU’s music program is its focus on practical learning. The University offers unique opportunities, such as the Music Education major, where students can earn their Music Teacher Certification through meaningful courses and field experiences.
- The Commercial Music program prepares students for industry-specific roles, including record producers, studio musicians and entertainment management.
- The NNU Music Department provides ample performance opportunities, regardless of whether you’re majoring in music. This inclusive approach allows you to continue honing your performance skills throughout your college career.
- NNU’s focus on its mission and values sets it apart. As a part of the NNU community, you’re encouraged to grow academically, spiritually and socially. The University’s commitment to fostering an environment of faith, inclusion and service further enriches your educational journey.
- NNU’s highly qualified faculty bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their teaching, providing personalized attention to nurture your musical potential.
Choosing NNU for your bachelor of music degree offers a comprehensive, practical and value-driven education that prepares you for a fruitful career in the music industry.
What kind of performance opportunities will I get as a music major at NNU?
At Northwest Nazarene University, music majors have many performance opportunities that enhance their educational experience and cultivate their musical talents.
As a part of the curriculum, music students must participate in at least one ensemble each semester. These ensembles offer invaluable hands-on experience and the chance to perform alongside peers. Additionally, students are expected to spend four semesters participating in the major ensemble related to their performance medium, such as voice or an instrument.
Private study is another critical element of the program. Students take private lessons each semester in their primary performance medium, a voice or an instrument. This personalized instruction allows students to refine their skills under the guidance of experienced faculty.
Music students must also pass a juried examination in their performance medium each semester. A minimum of six examinations must be passed to qualify for graduation in music. This rigorous process ensures that students continually strive for excellence in their craft.
Outside of classes, the NNU Music Department regularly holds concerts and recitals on campus open to the public. As a music major, you’ll be required to attend at least ten such events each semester, providing exposure to various performances and repertoire.
Lastly, an acceptable level of keyboard proficiency is required in all music emphases, with piano courses available for skill acquisition.
The NNU music degree prepares students for a professional career by offering many performance opportunities and fostering a comprehensive and enriching learning environment for aspiring musicians.
How does the faculty help prepare students for professional careers in the music industry?
The faculty at Northwest Nazarene University’s Music Department plays a pivotal role in preparing students for successful careers in the music industry.
Our faculty members are not just educators but also experienced music professionals, providing an invaluable blend of academic knowledge and industry insight. This unique combination allows students to gain a well-rounded understanding of music theory and practice while learning about the realities of working in the music industry.
Our faculty are deeply committed to mentoring students, walking alongside them throughout their educational journey. They are dedicated to fostering an environment where students can develop competitive skills in their craft.
Moreover, our professors are devoted to producing musicians who know and care deeply about music. This commitment ensures that students graduate with a profound appreciation and understanding of music, which is crucial for any successful career in the industry.
However, our faculty’s dedication goes beyond just academics and professional development. They are committed to nurturing a deeply grounded faith amongst students. They guide students in investing their gifts in the broader Kingdom of Christ, cultivating a sense of purpose and value that transcends their musical talents.
NNU’s outstanding music faculty provides comprehensive guidance that prepares students for professional success in the music industry and personal growth in their faith.