Cumberland University Music Performance Degree: 4-Year Guide

Choosing a music performance degree is about more than picking a school with a strong orchestra or a respected voice faculty. It is about finding a program that matches your instrument, your goals, and your willingness to commit to four years of intensive, in-person study. At Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee, the General Bachelor's degree in Music Performance offers exactly that: a structured, conservatory-style experience embedded within a liberal arts university. For students who thrive on live collaboration, weekly lessons, and the energy of a real stage, this program can be a transformative path.

But how do you know if a four-year, in-person music performance degree is the right investment? And what should you expect from Cumberland University specifically? This guide walks through the curriculum, audition process, performance opportunities, career outcomes, and practical considerations like cost and scheduling. Whether you are a high school senior, a transfer student, or an adult returning to music, the details below will help you decide if this program fits your goals.

Why a General Music Performance Degree at Cumberland University?

Cumberland University is a private institution with a long history, and its music department is small enough to offer individualized attention but large enough to support ensembles, recitals, and community performances. The General Bachelor's degree in Music Performance is designed for students who want to focus on their primary instrument or voice while building a broad foundation in music theory, history, and pedagogy. Unlike a specialized degree in music education or composition, this general track allows flexibility: you can tailor electives toward jazz, classical, contemporary, or even music business.

The in-person format is non-negotiable here, and that is a feature, not a bug. Music performance requires real-time feedback, ensemble synchronization, and the kind of non-verbal communication that only happens when musicians are in the same room. At Cumberland, you will rehearse with faculty and peers multiple times per week, perform in recitals each semester, and participate in large ensembles like choir, band, or orchestra. That immersion is difficult to replicate online.

If you are comparing this program to other options, you might also explore broader liberal arts pathways. For example, our guide on Anderson University English Bachelor's Degree shows how a four-year in-person degree in another humanities field balances similar general education requirements with deep major coursework. The structure is comparable: core courses, major requirements, and electives that let you shape your studies.

What the Four-Year Curriculum Looks Like

The General Bachelor's degree in Music Performance at Cumberland University typically requires around 120 credit hours, completed over eight semesters. The first two years build foundational skills: music theory, aural skills, keyboard proficiency, and music history. You will also take private lessons every semester on your primary instrument or voice, usually one credit hour each term. These lessons are the heart of the program, because they provide one-on-one mentorship with faculty who are active performers and educators.

By junior year, you shift toward upper-level performance courses, chamber music, and advanced theory or history electives. You will also begin preparing for your junior and senior recitals, which are graduation requirements. The recitals are not just academic exercises; they are public performances that demonstrate your technical and artistic growth. Many students use these recitals as portfolio pieces for graduate school applications or professional auditions.

Here is a typical semester-by-semester breakdown of the major requirements:

• Year 1: Music Theory I and II, Aural Skills I and II, Class Piano, Private Lessons, Large Ensemble, General Education courses
• Year 2: Music Theory III and IV, Aural Skills III and IV, Music History I and II, Private Lessons, Large Ensemble, General Education courses
• Year 3: Form and Analysis, Conducting, Chamber Music, Private Lessons, Junior Recital, Upper-level electives
• Year 4: Music Pedagogy, Senior Recital, Private Lessons, Advanced Ensemble, remaining electives, internship or capstone

Beyond the major, Cumberland requires general education courses in writing, math, science, and humanities. These are not busywork; they help you think critically about music as a cultural and historical practice. The best performers are also thoughtful interpreters, and a broad education supports that.

Audition and Admission Requirements

Admission to the music performance program is separate from general university admission. You must apply to Cumberland University and also pass a live or recorded audition on your primary instrument or voice. The audition typically includes two contrasting pieces, scales or technical exercises, and a sight-reading component. Faculty are looking for potential, not perfection: they want to see that you have solid fundamentals and can take direction.

If you are a transfer student, you may need to audition and submit transcripts for credit evaluation. Cumberland accepts transfer credits from accredited institutions, but music theory and history courses must often be validated through placement exams. Adult learners are welcome; the program does not have an age cap, and faculty appreciate the maturity and discipline that older students bring.

For international students, additional requirements include TOEFL or IELTS scores and a financial statement. The audition can be submitted as a high-quality video recording if traveling to campus is not possible, though an in-person audition is strongly preferred.

Performance Opportunities and Facilities

One of the strongest reasons to choose Cumberland University for music performance is the sheer number of performance opportunities. The university hosts multiple ensembles, including concert choir, chamber singers, symphonic band, jazz ensemble, and small chamber groups. Each ensemble performs at least once per semester, and some tour regionally. You will also have the chance to perform in student recitals, masterclasses, and community events.

The music department is housed in a dedicated facility with practice rooms, a recital hall, and a music library. Practice rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and music majors receive priority scheduling. The recital hall seats a few hundred people and hosts faculty recitals, guest artists, and student performances throughout the year.

For students interested in music education or community engagement, Cumberland also partners with local schools and churches for teaching and performance practicums. These experiences can lead to internships and job offers after graduation.

Career Outcomes and Graduate School Preparation

A General Bachelor's degree in Music Performance does not lock you into one career path. Graduates go on to become performers, private teachers, church musicians, arts administrators, and music therapists (with additional certification). Some pursue graduate degrees in performance, conducting, or musicology. Others combine their music training with skills in business, technology, or education.

The key is to use your four years wisely. Take electives in music business, recording technology, or pedagogy if those align with your goals. Build a portfolio of recordings and programs from your recitals. Network with faculty and guest artists. Cumberland's small size means you can get to know your professors well, and they can write strong recommendation letters for jobs or graduate school.

If you are unsure about the music performance path, consider that many students explore other fields before committing. For instance, some start with an English or liberal arts degree and then add music as a second major or minor. The important thing is to choose a program that gives you room to grow.

Cost, Financial Aid, and Time Commitment

Cumberland University is a private institution, so tuition is higher than in-state public options. However, music performance majors may qualify for talent-based scholarships, which can significantly reduce costs. These scholarships are awarded based on audition strength and do not need to be repaid. You should also file the FAFSA to be considered for need-based aid, grants, and federal loans.

The time commitment for this degree is substantial. In addition to classes, you are expected to practice two to four hours per day, attend ensemble rehearsals, and perform in recitals. Many students also hold part-time jobs or participate in work-study. Time management is critical. A typical week might include 15 to 18 hours of class and rehearsal, plus 15 to 20 hours of individual practice.

If you are comparing costs and formats, you might also research online options. HigherEducationAdvisor.com is a free education matching site that helps prospective students compare sponsored online and on-campus degree programs. You can browse by subject or state, request information from participating schools, and explore alternatives to traditional four-year programs. There is no obligation to apply or enroll, making it a low-pressure way to gather data. You can start your search at TopStudents.com.

Is This Program Right for You?

The Music Performance, General Bachelor's degree, usually 4 years In-person at Cumberland University is ideal for students who want intensive, hands-on training in a supportive liberal arts environment. If you prefer online learning or need to work full-time while studying, this program may not be the best fit. But if you are ready to immerse yourself in music, perform regularly, and study with dedicated faculty, it offers a strong return on investment.

Before you apply, visit campus if possible. Sit in on a rehearsal, take a sample lesson with a faculty member, and talk to current students. Ask about scholarship opportunities, practice room access, and ensemble placement. The more you know, the better you can decide whether Cumberland University is the right stage for your next four years.