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Interdisciplinary Arts, Music, BA

Discover the intersection of arts and music with an interdisciplinary music degree. Explore connections between music and other art forms for broader impact.

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About this Program

Connect Music to Other Art Forms for Broader Impact

The Department of Performing Arts and Arts Leadership offers an exciting and unique opportunity for interdisciplinary study in music. 

Students build a solid musical foundation of fundamentals, history, theory, ear training and performance. They apply their skills through regular private music lessons and participation in one or more of the department's thriving performing ensembles.

Unlike other colleges with music programs, this program requires students to take arts courses outside their chosen field. Students are encouraged to explore the endless possibilities that exist between music and other art forms.

For example, a student interested in musical performance might choose to bridge theatre and music, while another might combine music and visual art courses to round out an emphasis in theatre production.

Individual programs are designed in consultation with your faculty advisor.

Auditions

After being admitted to Seattle University, students audition in order to be accepted into the music degree program.

Performance Opportunities

The interdisciplinary music program offers degree emphases in voice, strings or piano.

The instrumental and choral groups perform alone and in various combinations at public concerts and university events throughout the academic year.

The music program at Seattle University nurtures several choirs and a series of chamber instrumental ensembles, offering opportunities for both vocal and instrumental musicians.

The  Choral Music Program consists of Treble Chorale, University Chorale and Chamber Singers  - ensembles who prepare a variety of challenging, exciting works during weekly intensive rehearsals. 

Interdisciplinary Arts, Music Degree at a Glance

Learn how this degree from the Department of Performing Arts and Arts Leadership will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University degree can be.

Seattle University undergraduate Fine Arts students should be able to achieve the following:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental techniques and methods specific to the discipline
  • Demonstrate practical abilities and skills from their art form
  • Embody broadened imaginative and creative powers (Art history students will critically interpret the creative and imaginative)
  • Analyze historical context and the great monuments in their art form
  • Interpret contemporary theory and forms
  • Integrate an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of art in the contemporary world
  • Critically analyze and evaluate examples of art

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

Prepared for Success

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Internships in Seattle’s World-Class Music Scene

Your faculty can help you connect with Seattle’s rich and vibrant music scene for real world experiences through internships. You also have to engage with the wider Seattle arts community, exploring the intersection of music, theatre, dance, visual art and more.

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Creative Spaces for Artists

The Billodue Makerspace at Seattle University, located in the Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation (Sinegal Center), provides creative spaces for artistic exploration. You will be able to participate in a variety of maker-related activities including sewing, fiber arts, 3D printing, laser cutting, electronics, vinyl cutting, and glass work.

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Arts and Sciences Advising Center

The Art History & Design Department includes several studios and galleries that digital design students can benefit from. Explore the creative spaces that are dedicated to developing design students and showcasing student work.

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Pathways to Professional Formation

The College of Arts & Sciences is committed to helping you through your lifetime journey of professional formation and discernment. We offer opportunities to deepen and broaden your understanding of your professional identity.

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From Our Alumni

Isabella Gilbertson

Nicky Manlove, ‘18

“The Interdisciplinary Arts program at Seattle University nurtured my passions, rigorously honed my musicianship skills and connected me to working professionals in ways that launched the career I dreamed of. I received an individualized education that emphasized both the standard course of study in a collegiate music program, but also my own particular interests, strengths and future goals. Faculty from SU continue to be treasured mentors, but also colleagues, collaborators and friends.”

BA in Interdisciplinary Arts, Music

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