Develop the skills necessary to be successful in your musical career while gaining lifelong friends and mentors. Whether you are interested in teaching, music performance or music history — or some combination of the three — the Department of Music will provide you with real-world experiences and connections to help you succeed.
From music education to performing, conducting, choir and more, the field of music brings together talented and passionate performers and scholars interested in musical development and personal enrichment.
At USD, our faculty are qualified and effective leaders who bring a wealth of experiences and insights to the classroom, stage or studio. This expertise, coupled with our small class sizes, creates a rich learning environment for our students, who learn to think creatively and work collaboratively as they strive to further their knowledge and love of music. We connect our students with real-world experiences, like internships and study abroad opportunities, that allow them to learn both inside and outside the classroom. With these skills and experiences guiding them, our students go on to lead, teach, conduct, compose, perform and shape music in our world. You'll find them behind the baton on the marching field or behind the microphone at center stage.
Student and organization performances are livestreamed online, which all are free to "attend" virtually or in-person!
Everyone is warm and welcoming at USD. Students can grow both as musicians and human beings. I am both a piano performance student and graduate assistant. What amazes me the most is not only the great level of expertise all members of the faculty have, but their continuous dedication, passion and support they give their students.
Eva Nikolaidou
With qualities like small class sizes, specialized programs and incredible student opportunities, USD is not your typical university. What makes us unique is what makes your education exceptional.
Explore the variety of opportunities and resources available to students, faculty and staff.
Learn from the best and brightest at one of the many workshops and events the USD Department of Music hosts for students and professionals.
"I basically knew I wanted to be her student the moment I saw her playing." Those are the words of Carolina Rodriguez, a master's cello student in the University of South Dakota College of Fine Arts who made the decision to pursue her degree at USD after a life-changing interaction with a fine arts faculty member.
University of South Dakota College of Fine Arts voice students won several top awards at the South Dakota District National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Auditions held in Sioux Falls on April 6.
The University of South Dakota Opera will present an exciting world premiere performance of “Notes on Viardot” April 27-28 in Slagle Hall’s Aalfs Auditorium on USD’s campus.
