What is a performance degree?
A performance degree will focus on mastering your chosen instrument while sharpening your performance skills. Along with intensive practice, you will study composition, theory, and music history to build a strong foundation. You can specialize in:
- Voice
- Piano or organ
- Strings (violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp)
- Classical or jazz guitar
- Wind or percussion (flute, oboe, trumpet, etc.)
Why should you major in performance at Redlands?
Majoring in performance at Redlands will provide you with rigorous training in a well-rounded education setting. During your studies, you will have opportunities to perform in and attend the Concerto Competition, Redlands Symphony Qualifying, President's Honor Recital, guest speakers, masterclasses, and other special events that will allow you to take your education to the next level. As a major in the program, you will perform recitals in both your junior and senior years. For audition details, contact Brad Andrews at brad_andrews@redlands.edu or (909) 748-8014.
Classes you'll take
To view specific classes, program requirements, and coursework information, visit the current university catalog.
What you'll learn
- Develop and defend musical judgements.
- Demonstrate the ability to realize a variety of musical styles.
- Demonstrate the technical skills requisite for artistic self-expression at a level appropriate for the particular music concentration.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills sufficient to work as a leader and in collaboration on matters of musical interpretation.
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Demonstrate an understanding of musical forms, processes and structures and the ability to place music in historical, cultural and stylistic contexts.
School of Performing Arts applicants
A supplemental School of Performing Arts (SOPA) application and audition are required for those who want to major or minor in Music and/or Theatre. For more information on the program, application, or audition, please contact Brad Andrews (the Director of Admissions for the School of Performing Arts) at brad_andrews@redlands.edu or (909) 748-8014.
To be admitted to the Conservatory of Music and/or the Department of Theatre and Dance, you must also be admitted to the University of Redlands.
In addition to filing The Common Application, a supplemental application and audition are required. The School of Performing Arts (SOPA) application includes options for music and theatre.
You can submit the SOPA application via your application status portal after you have applied to University of Redlands.
Spring 2026 deadlines:
- November 1 - application deadline
- December 1 - audition deadline
Fall 2026 application and audition dates and deadlines:
- February 7 - Music auditions at University of Redlands
- February 14 - Music and theatre auditions at University of Redlands
- February 15 - Video audition submission deadline
- February 21 - Virtual Interviews
Anyone wishing to participate in a music ensemble while pursuing a major other than music is invited to apply and audition for a talent scholarship. Applicants interested in this opportunity should choose the Ensemble Only option on the music application.
Video auditions can be one or multiple video files and should include:
- Please include the title of your piece/character and the name of the composer/play. These can be announced verbally or displayed as a title in the video.
- Video auditions can be uploaded on your application status page after you submit the SOPA application.
Helpful resources:
Undergraduate music programs include:
- Bachelor of Music in Composition
- Bachelor of Music in Music Education - Certified Single Subject Teaching Credential Program
- Bachelor of Music in Performance
- Bachelor of Arts with a major in Music
- Minor in Music
Undergraduate theatre and dance programs include:
- Bachelor of Arts with a major in Theatre
- Bachelor of Arts with a major in Theatre Business
- Minor in Theatre
- Minor in Musical Theatre
- Minor in Dance (no application or audition required)
Early Action 1: November 1
Early Action 2: December 1
Regular Decision: January 15*
Find us on campus
Watchorn Hall
Contact us
For more info on the program, application, or audition, contact Brad Andrews, Director of Admissions for the School of Performing Arts.
Graduates pursue careers as
Graduates pursue careers as
200+ annual recitals and concerts
200+ annual recitals and concerts
• Opera Workshop performs a major production with orchestra each spring.
• Musical Theatre and Opera have the School of Performing Arts (SOPA) students work in collaboration with faculty to produce and perform a full staged musical production or opera in alternating years.
• Undergraduate and graduate music students can compete to perform in the President's Honor Recitial.
Student Testimonial
“Redlands has given me the opportunity to expand my musical knowledge and helped pave the road for a life in music."
— Justin Brunette ’16, Bachelor of Music in vocal performance
Conservatory of Music
In the Conservatory of Music, our goal is to help each student achieve their potential to become a well-rounded musician. Our faculty are accomplished performers, composers, scholars, and educators dedicated to inspiring the next generation of musicians. Explore all our music programs, upcoming recitals, featured events, and ensemble opportunities.
Redlands' Signature Experiences
The Core Four Framework
At Redlands, our students’ success is at the heart of everything we do. We offer experiential learning opportunities, but our CORE Four initiative takes that commitment to a deeper, intentional level. More than a set of experiences, the CORE Four is a framework for transformation. Learn more about how students can prepare for their academic journey.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with our admissions team.