Commercial Music Studies

Kutztown University's Commercial Music Studies degree is comprised of a combination of mentoring from renowned artists/teachers, small class sizes, diverse commercial performance opportunities, and a well-rounded academic curriculum that is ideally suited to guide you to your version of professional success.

• Large Jazz Ensembles & Jazz Combos
• Rock Ensembles
• Latin Ensembles
• Live Sound & Studio Recording

KU Commercial Music Studes was gifted a huge supply of recording equipment by a generous donor who heard what we were doing and wanted to help us continue, as he said, “Doing it the right way.” Because of this generous gift, each semester Commercial Ensembles at KU make recordings that will later be available on various streaming services like Spotify. The students learn what it’s like to record in a professional studio (right here on campus) with professional engineers who are themselves graduates of KU Commercial Music. Students are also encouraged to create and record their own projects throughout there time at KU.

A track in Commercial Music Studies will prepare students who wish to pursue careers in recording studios, arts administration, performance of popular music, and other positions in the music industry. To become more well rounded and more marketable in the workforce, many elect to pursue a minor or a dual major in programs such as:

• Audio Engineering
• Business & Entrepreneurship
• Cinema, Television & Media Production (CTM)
• Communication Studies
• Computer Science
• Jazz Studies
• Music Business
• Professional Writing
• Public Relations

Admission to the Department of Music requires prospective students to complete the university application. Audition results determine placement in music courses and are considered as part of acceptance to the degree program.

At the audition, candidates will be asked to discuss their musical background, career goals, musical and general areas of interest.  Preliminary diagnostic exams are taken in: (a) harmony and theory, (b) ear training, (c) sight singing, and (d) piano skills. Students may receive the university's academic admissions decision prior to the audition process. Acceptance decision to the music programs will follow shortly. 

• Checksheets and Planners for Music Department programs
• Transfer Credit Information
• Professional licensures and certifications