Elizabeth City State University

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B.A.

Music

Department of Education, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Creative Arts

ECSU band member shouting from the stands surrounding by other band members in uniform

Find your sound. Sharpen your skill. Share your gift.

Program Overview

The Music program at Elizabeth City State University provides a strong foundation in music theory, aural skills, history, and technology, while emphasizing performance and real-world musical experiences.

As an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the program prepares students for careers in music, graduate study, and creative expression across diverse musical fields.

You won’t just study music—you’ll develop as a musician, performer, and creative leader.


Performance & Ensemble Experience

Performance is at the heart of the program. Students participate in ensembles such as:

  • Concert Band & Marching Band
  • Jazz Ensemble
  • University Choir & Choral Ensemble
  • Popular Music Ensemble

These opportunities allow students to perform regularly, collaborate, and grow on stage.


Degree Options & Concentrations

Customize your path with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and choose from concentrations like:

  • Composition
  • Performance
  • Music Education Licensure (K–12)
  • Music Production (pending approval)
  • General Music

The program blends liberal arts education with specialized musical training to support multiple career paths.

Minor:

Music

Auditions & Admission

All music majors must complete an audition on their primary instrument or voice after being admitted to the university.

What to Expect:

  • Perform pieces from standard repertoire
  • Demonstrate music reading ability
  • Audition before a faculty panel

Students who need additional preparation may be admitted provisionally and given time to meet performance standards.


What You’ll Learn

Build technical skill, musical knowledge, and artistic confidence:

Students graduate with the ability to analyze, perform, and create music at a professional level.


Hands-On Experience

This program is built around real-world Beyond the classroom, students gain experience through:

  • Applied lessons with faculty
  • Recitals and jury performances
  • Senior projects or capstone experiences
  • Internships (depending on concentration)

These experiences help you refine your craft and build confidence as a performer or educator.

Career Pathways

A Music degree prepares you for diverse opportunities, including:

  • Performer (instrumental or vocal)
  • Music Educator (K–12)
  • Composer or Arranger
  • Music Producer / Audio Specialist
  • Private Instructor
  • Arts & Cultural Program Coordinator

Program Leadership

Douglas Jackson

Assistant Professor, Music & Visual Arts | Fine Arts Building, Room 236

dajackson@ecsu.edu | 252-335-3377

Douglas Jackson

Assistant Professor, Music & Visual Arts | Fine Arts Building, Room 236

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary

Start Your Journey

Your talent has a place here—and a stage.

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