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MUSIC
Division of Communication and Fine Arts
Mary Carol Harris, Ph.D., Chair

Loras College offers a Bachelor of Arts Degree and a Bachelor of Music degree with a concentration in music education. We offer quality instruction in all instruments and voice to students of wide-ranging interest, not limited to those seeking a musical career. The program offers several choral and instrumental ensembles for all Loras students, regardless of major. These groups, along with an active musical faculty, contribute to the cultural fabric of the college and community.

"By participating in both instrumental and vocal programs and activities at Loras, it greatly prepared me for the many diverse aspects of today's music education curriculum."

-- Ray Kirkpatrick ('87)
Director of Music - Harvard Public Schools
Harvard, Neb.

Music Program Vision/Goals
All students participating in the creative process are constantly involved as active learners. The training of a musician demands that the student engage many different faculties concurrently, all with the goal of reaching the whole potential of the creative or re-creative process.

In determining the worth of musical study or the components thereof, students are challenged to be reflective thinkers. Although musicians are always involved in the activity of their art, we are demanded to constantly reflect upon how and why we act, teach, and perform.

Graduating ethical decision makers will be the foundation of this institution’s and department’s contribution to the world around us. As music is a discipline strongly tied to its historical foundations, students are continually made aware of the traditions which are an inseparable part of out identity.

It is almost impossible to separate a musician from his/her art: the art is a part of who we are and continually a part of what we do, whether “on the job” or not. As an active calling or an avocation, musicians remain after their graduation responsible contributors in diverse professional, social and religious roles.

Prepares for what types of jobs or Graduate Study:
The Bachelor of Music program with certification in Education prepares students to serve as music teachers in elementary and secondary schools. In cooperation with the Loras Department of Education, we have developed a comprehensive program for our future educators.

The Bachelor of Music program with an emphasis in performance, prepares students for advanced study. Students from Loras have entered prestigious graduate programs across the country. This program also helps prepare for private (lesson) teaching. Loras graduates also are serving as liturgical ministers, music therapists, and studio musicians. A music degree also can prepare a student for careers in arts administration, and even medicine! It is well documented that many health care programs actively seek out those who come forward with demonstrated discipline as well as compassion for all people—hallmarks of a musical person.

Contact Information:
John Oelrich, director
(563) 588-7153
john.oelrich@loras.edu

       

major decisions

Internships, externships, study abroad opportunities:
Many arts-related internships available through the Loras College Center for Experiential Learning, including the  Dubuque Symphony, Dubuque Museum of Art, etc. Study abroad opportunities include the on-going development of programs in Central and Eastern Europe. In addition, Loras College music ensembles actively tour throughout the United States and abroad, embarking on their first international tour (to Ireland) in May 2003.

Campus employment opportunities (assistantships, work/study, etc.):
Employment opportunities are available in the music department, serving as clerical assistants, equipment managers, music librarians, etc.

Clubs, organizations:
On campus: Loras College music ensembles, including Wind Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Choir, Women’s Chorus, Chamber Singers. National/International: Music Educators National Conference (MENC). Loras students also are involved in competitions of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS).

Scholarship opportunities:
COMING SOON!

Faculty