A Message from the Chair

Welcome to the Music Department at Gonzaga University!

We warmly invite you to join us in a pursuit of musical excellence both in study and performance.  From the beginning in 1887, Gonzaga has provided an exceptional music program and continues to be a leader as the only Jesuit university on the West Coast that offers both a Bachelor of Arts in Music and in Music Education.

Our program integrates liberal arts learning with a specialized competence in music for students at all levels of music proficiency. Although our degree program is geared for high achieving students on their way to becoming music professionals, we encourage the participation of all students in our performing ensembles as well as continuing private vocal and instrumental lessons with our renowned faculty.

We strongly believe that the study of music ensures a firm base for development of the whole person while you are here at Gonzaga. Involvement in our courses and performances will help you be a more effective leader in your community and profession because you will have enriched your creative imagination and gained a more thorough appreciation for the complexity of ideas and the rewards that stem from fostering the freedom of expression.

We will help you to understand the foundations of our cultural inheritances, strengthen your critical thinking skills, apply technical skills, craft your talent with discipline and positively collaborate on projects.  Our program uses state of the art technology along with a dedicated, expert faculty to inspire and guide our students in musicianship.

Your passion is our passion.  We offer study concentrations in composition, jazz, conducting, music education, instrumental performance and vocal performance as well as a variety of performing ensembles and individual performing opportunities.  Come in today to learn more about how the study of music can be a part of your time at Gonzaga!

Sincerely,

Peter Hamlin, Ph.D.
Chair, Music Department

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