MUSIC AT NICHOLLS

Welcome to the Department of Music at Nicholls!

On behalf of the faculty and staff of the Department of Music at Nicholls State University, I extend a warm welcome to students and visitors. Our department is dedicated to excellence in music education, fostering skills in performance and scholarship.

At the Department of Music, our accomplished faculty is committed to cultivating well-rounded musicians equipped for successful careers. Through a comprehensive curriculum and diverse musical opportunities, we nurture a deep appreciation for the arts and promote cultural diversity among our areas of study. We are proud to be the only public All-Steinway School in Louisiana.

I invite you to explore the rewarding musical journey that awaits you at Nicholls. Learn about our faculty, degree programs, audition information, scholarships, ensembles, and events. Together, let us create transformative experiences through the power of music.

Dr. Luciana Soares
Head, Department of Music

DEGREE PROGRAMS

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Instrumental Education

To become a band director, the MUSN concentration allows students to earn certification in instrumental music education by offering a solid foundation in the study of both music and education.

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Vocal Education

To become a choir director, the MUSV concentration allows students to earn certification in vocal music education by offering a solid foundation in the study of both music and education.

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Performance

The MUSP concentration allows students to earn a liberal arts degree in music by offering an intensive study in instrumental and vocal performance.  Students must exhibit a high level of performance ability on their instrument or voice and will be eligible for the degree after their fourth semester of private training. 

Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition

The MUSC concentration allows students to gain experience and knowledge in creating their own musical compositions.  It is designed to prepare composers for further graduate studies in composition by having them generate a portfolio of scores and recordings of their own works. The degree is also designed to teach students to prepare their own music for publication and performance consideration in the field.

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Liberal Arts

The MUSA concentration allows students to earn a liberal arts degree in music by offering a solid foundation in the study of both music and another area of interest to the student. It is designed for those students who are not seeking teacher certification.

ABOUT

The Department of Music provides its students an educational environment and fosters the development of critical thinkers and comprehensive musicians. Our faculty focuses on teaching, music performance, and scholarship to prepare students for a range of careers in music. Along with musical knowledge, students develop skills in communication, collaboration, and creativity as well as an increased sense of cultural diversity. The department also provides students across campus with general education requirements, numerous musical opportunities, and a deeper understanding and appreciation of the performing arts.

The Department of Music is committed to its reputation as a center of excellence in the performing arts and serves as an educational and cultural resource for the region. The faculty embraces the idea that music plays an integral role in preserving and enriching the culture and quality of life for the university and surrounding areas through community outreach and engagement.

Bachelor of Arts in Music –  Performance & Liberal Arts Degree (PDF DOWNLOAD)

Bachelor of Arts in Music –  Instrumental Education (PDF DOWNLOAD)

Bachelor of Arts in Music –  Vocal Education (PDF DOWNLOAD)

MUSIC (MUS 50.09)

MUS 100. Recital. 0-0-1. For Freshmen and Sophomores. Recital/concert attendance and observation to broaden student knowledge of music. S or U assigned upon completion. Not for audit. Must be repeated for degree. (50.0903)

MUS 101. Basic Piano. 3-3-0. Beginning piano course with group instruction focused on developing an introductory concept of reading music, playing the piano, and developing aural skills. Open to all students except music majors and minors. For credit only; no audit.

MUS 104. Basic Voice. 3-3-0. Beginning voice. Open to all students except MUSA, MUSN, MUSV, MUSI, VMED, and IMED majors. Fa only. (50.0903)

MUS 105. General Music Appreciation. 3-3-0. Introductory survey course covering principal musical styles and literature. Open to all students. Arts elective. [LCCN: CMUS 1013] (50.0902)

MUS 107. Honors Music Appreciation. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Honors placement. Social, economic, and political influences on composers and their works. (50.0902)

MUS 109. English and Italian Diction. 1-0-2. Instruction in speaking and singing in English and Italian. Examples drawn from musical terms, texts, libretti, and song. Restricted to music majors and minors only. Fa only. (50.0999)

MUS 110. Fundamentals of Music. 2-2-0. A study of music including the grand staff, scales, key signatures, intervals, triands, and seventh chords. Fa only. (50.0901)

MUS 119. Theory I. 4-3-2. A study of triads, inversions, figured bass, phrase units, harmonization of a given melody, seventh chords, and ear training and sight singing. (50.0901)

MUS 120. Theory II. 4-3-2. Prerequisite: MUS 119. Continuation of concepts studied in MUS 119 with the addition of non-harmonic tones and counterpoint. (50.0901)

MUS 123. Basic Guitar. 3-3-0. Beginning guitar. Open to all students. For credit only; no audit. (50.0903)

MUS 161. Performance Course. 1-0-3. Open to music minors, non majors, and as a minor performance course for music majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs (50.0903)

MUS 162. Performance Course. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: MUS 161. Open to music minors, non-majors, and as a minor performance course for music majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs.(50.0903)

MUS 169. Class Piano I. 1-0-2. Co-requisite: MUS 119. Beginning keyboard skills course for music majors and music minors. Group piano instruction focused on foundational musicianship skills. Music theory concepts will be reinforced through keyboard applications. (50.0903)

MUS 170. Class Piano II. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: C or better in MUS 169. A continuation of group piano instruction focused on beginning keyboard and musicianship skills for music majors and music minors. Music theory concept will be reinforced through keyboard applications. (50.0903)

MUS 171. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Co-requisite: MUS 100. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only by audition. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 172. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 171. Co-requisite: MUS 100. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 183. Women’s Ensemble. 1-0-3. For freshmen and sophomores. Sight reading ability not required, but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 190. Symphonic Band. 1-0-3. For freshmen and sophomores. Developing musicianship through performance in the Symphonic Band. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 191. Marching Band. 1-0-6. For freshmen and sophomores. Applicants should have had marching band experience at the high school level. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. Fa only. (50.0903)

MUS 193. Concert Choir. 1-0-3. For Freshmen and Sophomores. Sight reading ability not required but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 194. Wind Ensemble. 1-0-3. For freshmen and sophomores. Developing musicianship through performance in the Wind Ensemble. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 196. Gospel Choir. 1-0-3. For Freshmen and Sophomores. Sight reading ability not required but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0901)

MUS 197. Opera Workshop. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. For Freshmen and Sophomores. A select ensemble/class for moderate to advanced singers. Musical, linguistic, and dramatic preparation and performance of roles and scenes from the operatic and operetta repertory. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 201. Computing Technology for Music Majors. 2-2-1. Introduction to application software for use in music, including Microsoft Office, digital keyboards, MIDI, music notation, music publishing, and computer assisted instruction. (50.0999)

MUS 209. French and German Diction. 1-0-2. Speaking and singing in French and German. Examples are drawn from music terms, texts, libretti, and songs. Restricted to music majors and minors only. Sp only. (50.0999)

MUS 211. Theory III. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 120. A study of 19th century chromatic harmony with the addition of binary and ternary forms. (50.0904)

MUS 212. Theory IV. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 211. Continuation of concepts studied in MUS 211 with the addition of 20th and 21st century music. (50.0904)

MUS 217. Solfege Ear Training I. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: MUS 120. Continued development of sight singing and dictation skills through the use of more complex and demanding examples of music. Development of keyboard harmonization skills. (50.0904)

MUS 218. Solfege-Ear Training II. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: MUS 217. Continuation of concepts studied in MUS 217 with the addition of 20th century techniques and modes. (50.0904)

MUS 240. Survey of Music Literature. 3-3-0. A survey of selected examples in non Western cultures, Western European, and American music from the end of the Renaissance to the late 20th Century. Listening identification and study of styles. Includes Writing Across the Curriculum and score analysis components. Sp only. (50.0902)

MUS 243. Wind Literature. 1-1-0. Co-requisite: MUS 240. A survey of selected examples of symphonic band and wind ensemble literature. Listening identification and study of styles. Includes score analysis components. Sp only. (50.0902)

MUS 244. Choral Literature. 1-1-0. Co-requisite: MUS 240. A survey of choral masterworks, both large and small in scope, from a historical and stylistic perspective with additional emphasis on appropriately choosing, locating, and programming a variety of choral literature. Sp only. (50.0902)

MUS 261. Performance Course. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: MUS 162. Open to music minors and as a minor performance course for music majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 262. Performance Course. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: MUS 261. Open to music minors and as a minor performance course for music majors. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 269. Class Piano III. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: C or better in MUS 170. Intermediate keyboard skills course for music majors. Group piano instruction focused on synthesizing musicianship skills and music theory concepts through keyboard applications.. (50.0903)

MUS 270. Class Piano IV. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: C or better in MUS 269. Advanced keyboard skills course for music majors. Group piano instruction focused on skills that will prepare and enable students to use the keyboard in their teaching and careers. Advanced music theory concepts will be reinforced through keyboard applications. (50.0903)

MUS 271. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 172. Co-requisite: MUS 100. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 272. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 271. Co-requisite: MUS 100. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 282. String Ensemble. 1-0-3. For freshmen and sophomores. Developing musicianship through performance in the String Ensemble. Open to string majors and minors only. May be repeated for credit. (50.0903)

MUS 292. Chamber Ensemble. 1-0-2. Participation in varied chamber music ensembles. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 296. Jazz Ensemble. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. Open to freshmen and sophomores. A performing organization for instrumental students interested in the extended demands of performing in a jazz ensemble setting. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 298. Chamber Choir Ensemble. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. Open to freshmen and sophomores. Selections performed range from Renaissance to twentieth century. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 300. Recital. 0-0-1. For Juniors and Seniors. Recital/concert attendance and observation to broaden student knowledge of music. S or U assigned upon completion. Not for audit. Must be repeated for degree. (50.0903)

MUS 301. Basic Conducting. 2-1-2. Prerequisite: MUS 269. Basic principles of conducting and score reading, verbal and non-verbal communication related to music and music education. Development and assessment of dexterity, coordination, and communication skills. Fa only. (50.0906)

MUS 302. Instrumental Conducting. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: MUS 301. Emphasis upon actual conducting of various ensembles. Interpretation of music of various periods, refinement of conducting skills, and a survey of band literature. Sp only. (50.0903)

MUS 303. Choral Conducting. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: MUS 301. Principles of interpretation and style. Observation and application of choral technique. Choral literature survey. Refinement of conducting skills. Sp only. (50.0903)

MUS 306. Piano Accompanying. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 272. Principles of accompanying vocalists, instrumentalists, and ensembles. (50.0907)

MUS 319. Jazz History. 3-3-0. Jazz music will be the material of concern. Arts elective. (50.0902)

MUS 320. History of Rock and Roll. 3-3-0. Rock and roll: its history, stylistic developments, and social influences. Arts Elective. (50.0902)

MUS 321. History of Opera and Broadway. 3-3-0. The history of Opera from the Renaissance Era through 21st Century Broadway Musicals. Open to non-majors. (50.0902)

MUS 322. Practical Issues in Music Performance. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Junior standing or above. Techniques, strategies, and problems in private teaching, professional auditions, and entrepreneurship in music. Open to Music majors only. (50.0901)

MUS 323. Form and Analysis I. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 212. In depth study of formal elements of music from Baroque through Classical Eras. (50.0999)

MUS 324. History of Sacred Music. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: Junior standing or above. The history of Christian Music from Gregorian Chant through Contemporary Styles. Open to non-majors. (50.0902)

MUS 325. Wind or Percussion Literature. 3-3-0. A study of wind or percussion literature from the Baroque to the present. For wind and percussion majors only. (50.0902)

MUS 326. History of Hip Hop. 3-3-0. The history of Hip Hop music and its political and aesthetic foundations. Open to non-majors. (50.0902)

MUS 340. Music History: c. 400 to 1750. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 240. Historical development of music in the Western tradition, Ancient and Medieval eras through the Baroque era. Includes Writing Across the Curriculum and score analysis components. Open to non-majors. Fa only. (50.0902)

MUS 341. Music History: 1750 to present. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 240. Historical development of music in the Western tradition, Classical era to the present. Includes score analysis components. Open to non-majors. Sp only. (50.0902)

MUS 350-351-352. Independent Study. 1-0-2 each. Prerequisites: Permission of department head and a minimum of 45 semester hours of music courses. Preparation and completion of a plan of directed study. Student may elect to take one, two, or all three courses at the same time. Each may be repeated once for credit if content differs. (50.0901)

MUS 359. Instrument Repair. 1-0-2. Methods and materials used in the repair of woodwind and brasswind instruments.  Open to MUSA, MUSN, and MUSV majors only. (50.0999)

MUS 369. Junior Recital. 1-0-2. Prerequisite: MUS 272. All music majors. Scheduled during junior year. Approved recital. (50.0903)

MUS 370. Piano. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 270 or audition. Elective private instruction at the intermediate level. Open to music majors and minors. May be repeated once for credit. (50.0903)

MUS 371. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 272. Co-requisite: MUS 300. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 372. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 371. Co-requisite: MUS 300. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. Performance examination required at the end of the semester. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 376. Piano Literature. 3-3-0. A study of keyboard literature from the Renaissance to the present. For  music majors only. (50.0902)

MUS 382. String Ensemble. 1-0-3. For Juniors and Seniors. Developing musicianship through performance in the String Ensemble. Open to string majors and minors only. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 383. Women’s Ensemble. 1-0-3. For juniors and seniors. Sight reading ability not required, but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 386. Gospel Choir. 1-0-3. For Juniors and Seniors. Sight reading ability not required, but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0999)

MUS 389.   String Literature. 3-3-0. A study of literature for stringed instruments from the Baroque to the present.   For music majors only. (50.0902)

MUS 390. Symphonic Band. 1-0-3. For juniors and seniors. Developing musicianship through performance in the Symphonic Band. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 391. Marching Band. 1-0-6. For juniors and seniors. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. Fa only. (50.0903)

MUS 393. Concert Choir. 1-0-3. For Juniors and Seniors. Sight reading ability not required, but singers must have inherent vocal ability and pitch recognition. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 394. Wind Ensemble. 1-0-3. For juniors and seniors. Developing musicianship through performance in the Wind Ensemble. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 396. Jazz Ensemble. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. For juniors and seniors. A performing organization for instrumental students interested in the extended demands of performing in a jazz ensemble setting. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 397. Opera Workshop. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. For Juniors and Seniors. A select ensemble/class for moderate to advanced singers. Musical, linguistic, and dramatic preparations and performance of roles and scenes from the operatic and operetta repertory. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 398. Chamber Choir Ensemble. 1-0-3. Prerequisite: Audition. For juniors and seniors. Selections performed range from Renaissance to twentieth century. May be repeated for credit if content differs. A zero hour credit section of this course may be available. (50.0903)

MUS 400. Senior Project. 1-0-4. Prerequisite: MUS 372. Scheduled during senior year. Approved recital or capstone project. (50.0903)

MUS 407. World Music. 3-3-0. A multicultural survey of select indigenous music from a variety of ethnic groups with primary focus upon non-Western and South American cultures. Fine Arts elective. Fa only. (50.0902)

MUS 423. Form and Analysis II. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 323. In-depth study of formal elements of music from Classical through late Romantic Eras. (50.0902)

MUS 424. Sacred Music Practicum. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 324 and Junior standing or above. Instruction in planning, organizing and administering music in the Christian Church. Field experience is required. (50.0999)

MUS 432. Orchestration and Band Scoring. 1-1-0. Prerequisite: MUS 212. Ranges, transposition, and characteristics of instruments of the symphony orchestra and concert band. Emphasis on writing ensemble arrangements for band. Fa only. (50.0904)

MUS 433. Choral Arranging. 1-1-0. Prerequisite: MUS 212. Choral arranging techniques with emphasis on writing of choral ensemble arrangements. (50.0903)

MUS 470. Piano. 2-0-3. Prerequisite: MUS 370. Elective private instruction. Open only to music majors and minors. Moderately advanced private instruction for vocal and instrumental music majors. May be repeated once for degree credit. (50.0903)

MUS 471. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 372. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 472. Performance Course. 2-0-6. Prerequisite: MUS 471. Individual instruction. Open to music majors only. May be repeated for credit if content differs. (50.0903)

MUS 474. Performance Coaching. 2-0-6. Advanced individual studio instruction and performance coaching. Open only to music majors at an advanced performance level as determined by the studio instructor. (50.0903)

MUS 476. Piano Pedagogy. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUS 376. Teaching methods and materials with emphasis on training individual and class piano students. For music majors only. (50.0999)

MUS 489. String Pedagogy. 3 3 0. Methods and materials in the teaching of stringed instruments. For music majors only. (50.0999)

MUSIC EDUCATION (MUED 13.1312)

MUED 221. Class Strings. 1-0-2. Class instruction in stringed instruments with emphasis on pedagogy. (13.1312)

MUED 223. Class Brasses. 1-0-2. Class instruction in brasswind instruments with emphasis on pedagogy. (13.1312)

MUED 225. Class Percussion. 1-0-2. Class instruction in percussion instruments with emphasis on pedagogy. (13.1312)

MUED 227. Class Woodwinds. 1-0-2. Class instruction in woodwind instruments with emphasis on pedagogy. (13.1312)

MUED 229. Class Voice. 1-0-2. Class instruction in voice with emphasis on pedagogy. (13.1312)

MUED 383. Foundations of Music Education. 3-3-0. Prerequisites: Passing scores on all parts of Praxis PPST or ACT cumulative score of 22 or higher. Foundations and principles of music education with emphasis on the development of lesson plans and assessment in music. Observations in cooperating school are required. Fa only. (13.1312)

MUED 384. Methods and Materials for Vocal Music. 3-3-0. Prerequisite: MUED 383. Techniques for elementary, junior high, and senior high school vocal music classes. Materials and literature. Fa only. (13.1312)

MUED 385. Methods and Materials for Instrumental Music. 2-2 0. Prerequisite: MUED 383. The administration and management of an instrumental organization. Techniques used in teaching. Use of state-approved materials; problems of organizing, scheduling, drilling, and equipping the school band. Fa only. (13.1312)

MUED 386. Marching Band Techniques. 1-1-0. Co-requisite: MUED 385. Instruction in the methods and techniques involved in the administration of a marching band program. Fa only. (13.1312)

MUED 478. Vocal Pedagogy. 2-2-0. Prerequisite or co-requisite: MUS 372. Problems of teaching voice. Techniques, methods, and texts. (13.1312)

The following scholarships are available to music students.

Department of Music Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded to talented students with an entering ACT score of 20 or higher. Awards range from $800 to $4,000 over four years, depending on the student’s academic and musical progress. To qualify for a scholarship, students must be eligible to enroll in all courses at the freshman level. To maintain eligibility, students must complete at least twelve credit hours each semester, including one primary ensemble (Concert/Chamber Choir for vocal majors; Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, or Symphonic Band for instrumentalists; pianists may choose an ensemble in consultation with their primary teacher), and private studio lessons, while also maintaining an overall GPA of 2.83.

The Norman Swanner Memorial Scholarship 

Awarded to a full-time student enrolled in the Division of Music. The recipient will be classified as either a sophomore or junior and will have earned a 2.50 GPA at the time of the award. The recipient shall hold the scholarship for two consecutive semesters, providing all of the above criteria is met. Primary consideration must go to a resident of Lafourche Parish. Should there not be a qualified applicant from Lafourche Parish, the scholarship may be awarded to any other student who meets the criteria.

The Wildon  J. “Jack” and Clarinet Shinn Scholarship

Awarded to a full-time student enrolled in the Department of Music. The recipient will be classified as either a sophomore or junior and will have earned a 2.50 GPA at the time of the award. The recipient shall hold the scholarship for two consecutive semesters, providing all of the above criteria is met. The recipient must be a woodwind major currently enrolled in studio lesson and a major ensemble.

E. R. T. Marquette Piano Scholarship

 Awarded to a student from Lafourche, Terrebonne, or Assumption Parishes majoring in music and having at least a 3.0 grade point average.

Eugenia S. Churchill Scholarship 

Awarded to a full-time student majoring in vocal music.

Timothy R. Lindsley, Jr. Music Scholarship 

Awarded to a music major of a sophomore status or above. The applicant must have completed at least 12 or more hours each semester to include at least one primary ensemble and private studio study. The recipient must maintain a minimum overall grade-point average of 2.5 for all courses and display a positive attitude towards studies, display leadership, and be of service to the music program.

The Thibodaux Music Club 

Awarded to a full-time student at Nicholls with a minimum GPA of 2.5 with at least sophomore standing.  The applicant must possess leadership qualities and be active in community service.  Any recipient of this scholarship must apply each semester for the continuation of the award.

Alice and William Calloway Band Scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences

Awarded annually as long as funding is available to assist undergraduate band students pursuing any degree in the College of Arts and Sciences. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen and Louisiana resident who is enrolled full-time at Nicholls State University pursuing any degree program in the College of Arts and Sciences.  The recipient must have and maintain a 3.0 GPA and must be a member of the Nicholls band.  The recipient must demonstrate financial need. This scholarship will be advertised when available.

F. Smith Knobloch Scholarship 

Awarded to a student enrolled in a minimum of 6 hours pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Music (any of the 3 concentrations with Piano as the major instrument) at the time of the application.  The student will have a 3.0 GPA at the time of application and maintain a 3.0 GPA to keep the scholarship for a second semester.  Financial need will be considered.  The student must submit two (2) letters of recommendation along with his/her application.  This scholarship will be advertised when available.

The Department of Music also presents the following awards:

  • Outstanding Piano Major
  • Outstanding Vocal Music Major
  • Outstanding Instrumental Music Major
  • Outstanding Service Award
  • American Choral Directors Association Student Award

Students are encouraged to apply for a variety of other local, state and national scholarships through the Financial Aid Office.

  • All music majors enrolled in a studio lesson must perform a jury exam during finals week at the end of each semester. The requirements are specified in each course syllabus according to level of study.
  • At the completion of the fourth semester of study, all music majors must take the upper-level entry assessment, which will determine continued study at the junior level. This exam consists of a self-study piece and a self-reflection essay.

Individuals interested in a career in music education may contact the following school systems:

Assumption Parish School Board
4901 Highway 308
Napoleonville, LA 70390
985.369.7251
985.369.2530 (fax)
Lafourche Parish School Board
P.O. Box 879
Thibodaux, LA 70302-0879
985.446.5631
985.446.0801 (fax)
St. Charles Parish School Board
P.O. Box 46
Luling, LA 70070-0046
985.785.6289
985.785.1025 (fax)
St. James Parish School Board
P.O. Box 338
Lutcher, LA 70071-0338
225.869.5375, Ext. 202
225.869.8845 (fax)
St. Mary Parish School Board
P.O. Box 170
Centerville, LA 70522-0170
337.836.9661
337.836.5461 (fax)
Terrebonne Parish School Board
P.O. Box 5097
Houma, LA 70361-5097
985.876.7400, Ext. 213
985.872.1411 (fax)

FUTURE STUDENTS

The Nicholls Department of Music offers its students:

  • opportunities to learn from distinguished faculty members and visiting musicians,
  • practical experience performing in ensembles and recitals,
  • hands-on practice in elementary and secondary music classrooms, and
  • preparation for careers in music and music education.

Audition Information

All prospective music majors and minors are required to participate in an audition, which involves a performance evaluation and interview for acceptance into the program and for scholarship considerations. There will also be placement tests for both piano and music theory. 

Students should prepare two contrasting pieces on their primary instrument or voice. Honor Band and Choir audition materials are also welcome. We encourage prospective students to reach out to the appropriate applied faculty member for guidance and repertoire recommendations. Auditions will be held in 215 Talbot Hall at 3 p.m. on the following Fridays:

February 21, 2025
March 21, 2025
April 11, 2025

Please complete the audition form below, and feel free to call us at 985.448.4600 with any additional questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS

February 14, 2025
  • Love Notes: An Event For All Lovers of Music and Fine Dining

    February 14, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm

    Foundry on The Bayou
    Passed hor d'oeuvres, cash bar and a silent auction
    Dinner served at 7:00 PM
    Semi-formal attire
    For tickets, go to: https://www.nicholls.edu/music/love-notes-form/

    See more details

February 20, 2025
  • Nicholls Camerata Concert

    February 20, 2025 | 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

    Mary and Al Danos Theater
    Free Admission

    See more details

February 25, 2025
  • Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band Concert

    February 25, 2025 | 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

    Mary and Al Danos Theater
    Free Admission

    See more details

February 28, 2025
  • "To be Young, Gifted, And Black" Recital

    February 28, 2025 | 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

    Mary and Al Danos Theater
    Free Admission

    See more details

ACCREDITATION

Founded in 1924, the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities with approximately 639 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials for music and music-related disciplines, and provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other music-related endeavors.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Sigma Alpha Iota

Sigma Alpha Iota, an international music fraternity for women, was founded on June 12, 1903, at the University School of Music at Ann Arbor, Michigan. The mission of the fraternity and its members is to encourage, nurture and support the art of music in America and around the world.

The Theta Theta chapter of SAI was founded at Nicholls in 1996. Nicholls students interested in joining SAI must meet the following requirements:

  • must be enrolled as a full-time student,
  • must have taken at least one music course,
  • must have a minimum 2.5 grade point average and
  • must have a great love of music.

Students may not join SAI during their first semester of study but are encouraged to apply for admission during subsequent semesters of enrollment.

To learn more about membership in the Theta Theta chapter of SAI, contact SAI faculty advisor Dr. Melissa Kindy.

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia is a national fraternity for men who share a love of music and brotherhood. This professional and honorary society was founded in 1898 at the New England Conservatory in Boston and has become the largest music fraternity in the world with more than 200 chapters on campuses throughout the United States.

The fraternity values the importance of music and all forms of art, not only in the artistic sense, but also for the ways these works enrich the lives of us all. Each chapter strives to uphold the Sinfonia Object, which “shall be for the development of the best and truest fraternal spirit; the mutual welfare and brotherhood of musical students; the advancement of music in America; and a loyalty to the alma mater.”

The Omicron Beta chapter was founded at Nicholls in 1994. For more information on how to become involved in this organization, contact Phi Mu Alpha faculty advisor Kelly Rodrigue.

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