Music Major

Grand View's music department will challenge you to take your love of music and transform it into a meaningful career in music. The power of music transcends time and place - we invite you to discover the possibilities at Grand View. From your first year, you can be involved in ensembles, take private lessons and challenge yourself while being part of a close knit community of musicians. We also offer the following majors: Church Music and Music Education.

Music Ensembles

Music Scholarships

Julefest Concert

Upcoming Events

Why Grand View?

Personal attention from faculty who take a sincere interest in your success
Build a strong foundation in music in a collaborative environment, focusing on camaraderie over competition
Be part of the touring ensemble from year one
Experience a vibrant music scene both on campus and throughout the Des Moines community

Music Scholarships

The music department offers scholarships in voice, piano and instrumental music for qualified students (by audition only). Scholarships are awarded in amounts up to $4,000 and are renewable each year, provided the student continues in good standing in his or her music activities. Pro Musica Scholarships are available for music majors as well as non-majors. To be eligible, students must respond to the scholarship invitation as new students and be accepted for admission. Learn More

Career Options

Grand View's music program will prepare you for a music career in a variety of settings:

Church Music
Conducting
Event Coordinator
Music Composition / Arranging
Music Editor
Music Journalism
Music Librarian
Music Performance
Music Studio Teaching
Music Retail
Music Therapist
Piano Accompanying
Vocal Coaching

Careers in Music

Course Requirements

Download Degree Checklist

Student Testimonials

Dr. Michael Elsbernd

“Dr. Elsbernd has helped give me the confidence needed to play the organ for service playing, and always is able to find something positive, even if I had felt I had terribly messed up.” - Colby Gochanour

GV Degree Combinations

You may also be interested in one or more of the following:

Awards and Accomplishments

Mark Doerffel • Assistant professor of music and director of instrumental activities, presented a clinic at the Kansas Music Educators Association State In Service Workshop in Wichita. He co-presented the clinic, “De-mystifying the trombone: A guide for non-trombonists,” with Frank Perez from Baker University (Baldwin City, Kan.). This was Doerffel's second year to present clinics at the annual state-wide event. Approximately 5,000 music teachers, students and parents attend each year.

Real World Outcomes

Grand View University music majors have become successful musical performers, conductors and teachers; others have found careers in various aspects of the music business such as recording or management. Still others have blended the analytical and communication skills learned in their music classes with other talents, going on to careers in medicine, law, business, publishing and advertising.