The Music program provides an array of possibilities for undergraduate music majors, community members and college students. Students have the opportunity to study music appreciation, theory, aural skills, literature, world music, American music, music business and digital recording techniques.
The program offers the first two years a general education music degree program including musicianship sequences in theory and ear training and a sequence of four class piano courses designed for non-pianists. Applied lessons on most instruments and on a variety of music ensembles are offered to meet performance requirements.
Performing groups are open to all students regardless of major, and include Concert Choir, Jazz Choir, Chamber Singers, Community Jazz Ensemble, DuPage Chorale, DuPage Community Band, Chamber Orchestra, Small Group Jazz, Percussion Ensemble and Guitar Ensemble.
The integration of performance and academics helps students prepare for the professional world of music as performing artists, educators or hobbyists. Music courses are available in digital recording and editing, music theory and history.
Private Music Lessons
In addition to degrees and certificates in music business, audio production and music, COD offers private lessons in guitar, piano, organ, voice and all traditional band and orchestra instruments. Study one-on-one with professionals who perform with diverse groups such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Lyric Opera of Chicago and Pearl Jam.
Every instructor holds an advanced degree in performance and pedagogy. All styles of music are represented, including classical, jazz, blues, and contemporary. Lessons are available for all ages and ability levels. For lessons for academic credit, contact Thomas Stark at (630) 942-2391 or email starkt1620@cod.edu. For non-credit lessons, contact Continuing Education at (630) 942-2208.
Determine Your Path
A music degree offers numerous employment opportunities in both the private and public sectors.
Whether you are taking music classes for enjoyment or planning to earn a degree in music and transfer to another institution, COD offers:
- Dedicated instructors with experience in the classroom and on stage. Faculty are considered among the most respected in the Chicago area and nationally.
- Instruction in our state-of-the-art facilities using all of the latest resources.
- Affordable courses to help you achieve success without creating overwhelming debt or draining your savings account.
- Small class sizes to ensure you receive personalized attention.
Audio Production, Certificate
The Audio Production Certificate is intended for individuals interested in professional music production. This includes careers in live sound, audio recording, radio and television production, and internet production. This certificate requires 24 credits in the courses listed below.
Music Business, A.A.S.
The Music Business degree is a curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in music industry. The degree is designed for the student interested in pursuing business opportunities involving music. This program combines elements of the traditional music curriculum with business, marketing, management, and music industry courses. This degree requires 64 credits in program requirements, program electives and general education in the courses listed below.
Music, A.F.A. Music
COD Stories
"I was lucky to have experiences early on in my development, like at COD, which gave me the confidence to keep going.” - Amy Beth Kirsten
Amy Beth's COD StoryCOD Stories
“The music faculty members at COD are world-class teachers, but more importantly they are genuinely caring people who want you to succeed.” - David Shere
David's COD StoryCOD Stories
“The professors provide incredibly valuable musical opportunities." - Melissa Wang
Melissa's COD StoryCOD Stories
"I loved being in classes at COD with people of all ages. I hope when I’m retired, I come back and take classes and keep learning about everything.” - Bella Kelly
Bella's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in music is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
Students who complete courses in General Education Music Survey courses (Music Appreciation, Intro to American Music, Introduction to World Music, and Music Literature) will:
- Demonstrate an understanding of basic musical terminology in relation to the music studied.
- Demonstrate improved listening skills, through an awareness of the elements of music.
- Recognize the major stylistic traits of selected musical traditions, cultures, and/or historical eras.
- Demonstrate an appreciation for live musical performance through attendance at relevant musical events.
Students who complete courses in Skill development— music core curriculum: (Music Theory, Aural Skills, Class Piano, and Recording Techniques) will:
Music Core
- Use their knowledge of musical elements (such as notation, melody, harmony, form, rhythm, and compositional craft) to analyze and create musical examples and compositions.
- Demonstrate aural skills, including rhythmic, melodic, and harmonic dictation, sight singing, and solfeggio.
- Demonstrate basic keyboard skills, through the performance of scales, technical exercises, and prepared pieces.
- Demonstrate an appreciation for live musical performance through attendance at relevant musical events.
Related Professional Expertise
- Demonstrate the ability to produce recorded and mixed sound projects.
- Comprehend and negotiate contracts and engage in business planning as appropriate for musicians and administrative or managerial personnel working directly with musicians
Students who complete courses in Applied Music (Includes private lessons, group lessons, and ensembles) will:
- Demonstrate improved vocal or instrumental skills acquired during the semester through private lessons and/or participation in an ensemble.
- Perform in at least one public concert or before a faculty jury (2 credit hour students must participate, 1 credit hour students may participate)
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the form, style, history, aesthetic, and text (if applicable) of the repertoire being prepared.
College of DuPage partners with several four-year institutions to help students seamlessly complete a bachelor’s degree in music. Students can connect with Transfer Services for personalized guidance on transfer opportunities.
For more information about Transfer Pathways, visit the College of DuPage Catalog. The pathway outlines a typical two-year course plan for completing an AA or AS degree before transferring to a four-year program. Course requirements vary by institution, so consult your faculty or academic advisor for specific guidance.
Articulation Agreements
College of DuPage maintains transfer agreements with many colleges and universities to ensure a smooth transition toward a bachelor’s degree. These agreements often include a defined course sequence. Students should regularly meet with a faculty member or the Counseling and Advising office to stay on track.- Columbia College Chicago, AA to BA in Music Business
- Columbia College Chicago, AFA Music to Bachelor of Music, Contemporary, Urban, and Popular Music
- Elmhurst University, AA to Bachelor of Music in Music Business
- Elmhurst University, AFA-Music to Bachelor of Arts in Music
- Elmhurst University, AAS to Bachelor of Music in Music Business
Transfer Guides
Beyond articulation agreements and guaranteed admission programs, College of DuPage courses transfer to many other institutions. Transfer Guides help students select COD courses that meet prerequisites for specific majors and include details such as contact information, major requirements, general education requirements, and transfer policies.
Career Information
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