Piano Performance, B.M

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (B.M. in Piano Performance)

The Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance (B.M. in Piano Performance) program is designed for students who wish to pursue a professional career as pianists. The program focuses on developing advanced piano performance skills, musicianship, and technical proficiency, alongside a comprehensive understanding of music theory, history, and composition. Students will engage in extensive individual lessons, ensemble work, and performance opportunities to refine their abilities in various musical styles and genres. The program prepares students for careers as concert pianists, accompanists, music educators, or to pursue advanced studies in music.

Key Program Features:

• Advanced Piano Training – Individualized piano lessons and masterclasses with faculty, focusing on technical mastery and expressive performance.
• Performance Opportunities – Regular solo and ensemble performances, including recitals and concerts, to build performance experience.
• Music Theory and History – A solid foundation in music theory, music history, and ear training to enhance musicianship and interpretative skills.
• Repertoire Development – Study and performance of a diverse repertoire, from classical to contemporary works, to develop a well-rounded musical skill set.
• Pedagogy – Courses in teaching methods and techniques for those interested in becoming piano instructors.
• Collaborative Music Making – Participation in ensembles, such as chamber music, orchestral collaborations, and accompanying singers or instrumentalists.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Piano Technique – Intensive study of technical exercises, scales, and arpeggios, focusing on developing speed, precision, and musicality.
2. Music Theory and Harmony – Deepening understanding of music structure, chords, scales, and advanced harmonic progressions.
3. Performance Practice – Emphasis on interpreting works for the piano from different periods, including Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary music.
4. Sight-Reading and Ear Training – Development of sight-reading abilities and aural skills to identify musical elements by ear.
5. Music History – Study of key historical periods and composers to gain insight into the evolution of music and the context behind piano compositions.
6. Piano Pedagogy – Instruction in teaching piano, including methods for working with students of various ages and skill levels.
7. Improvisation and Composition – Encouragement of creativity through improvisation and composing original piano music.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the B.M. in Piano Performance program can pursue various career paths, including:

• Concert Pianist – Performing in recitals, concerts, and competitions.
• Piano Instructor – Teaching piano at schools, universities, or private music studios.
• Collaborative Pianist – Accompanying soloists, vocalists, or instrumentalists for performances and auditions.
• Music Director – Leading ensembles or choirs in educational or professional settings.
• Music Arranger or Composer – Writing and arranging music for piano or other instruments.
• Music Educator – Teaching music in schools or private studios.