School of Audio and MusicPerformance and Songwriting Bachelor's Degree
- BMus
Are you ready to turn your passion for music into a career? Dive into a world of creativity with ÌÀ²»ÈÈÊÓƵ’s BMus degree in Performance and Songwriting. Here, you’ll learn theory, composition, improvisation, arranging, technology, history, analysis, and aural skills. Private lessons focused on your primary instrument/voice will give you the one-on-one attention to grow as a musician while other coursework and performance opportunities will provide invaluable collaborative music-making experiences.
NOTE: For a Performance and Songwriting BMus at ÌÀ²»ÈÈÊÓƵ, an audition is required for placement purposes.
Examples of Performance and Songwriting Careers
The Student Experience
Explore our and the many opportunities you’ll have at Columbia to grow your talent, collaborate with other musicians, and perform and produce music.
All music majors participate in ensemble courses that foster collaborative music-making across genres such as pop, rock, jazz, and R&B, directed by professional faculty
Take personalized lessons with experienced faculty across various vocal and instrumental genres, focusing on refining your performance skills and unique sound.
Chicago's vibrant music scene offers numerous performance opportunities, with Columbia’s Music Center hosting over 200 events each year for students and faculty.
Access state-of-the-art rehearsal spaces, concert halls, and recording equipment necessary for your musical endeavors, with rental options available for professional gear.
Professional musicians come for week-long residencies every semester; they lead workshops and master classes with student ensembles as well as recording sessions and public performances.
Benefit from a diverse faculty of accomplished musicians, such as Cassandra O’Neal, who brings extensive experience from collaborations with artists like Prince and Mary J. Blige.
Career Readiness
Many alumni and faculty mentor and collaborate with enrolled students, and our graduates often work and perform together, building lifelong relationships and a strong Columbia presence in the Chicago music scene. Our graduates are performers, composers, educators, and music business professionals.
Connect with established creative professionals through workshops, events, and internships facilitated by Columbia's alumni network.
Build a body of work to help you land that dream job and take advantage of our Career Center to help you package your work in a way that jumpstarts your career.
ALumni Spotlight
25 in 2025
"25 in 2025" recognizes alumni from ÌÀ²»ÈÈÊÓƵ for their professional achievements beyond their academic journeys. Learn more.
of 2023 grads are employed or pursuing their creative practice within a year.