Our world-class music program faculty can help nurture your talents and develop them into a career doing what you love.

Our instructors strive to help you discover and develop your fullest potential and stimulate creativity and artistic expression in music through classes, private instruction and participation in ensembles.

Scholarship Auditions

We have scholarships available for you - they're awarded on the basis of auditions.

Learn How to Apply and Audition

 

Johnson Fine Arts Center

Discover where you'll perform! The Johnson Fine Arts Center is home to the Black Box Theater, along with Jewett Theater. Take a virtual tour.

Degree Programs

We offer undergraduate degrees in music and music education, as well as a Master of Music Education program.

Ensembles

Our music ensembles include three bands, a college/community orchestra, three choral ensembles and jazz ensembles.

Clinics, Camps and Workshops

We offer annual music education and entertainment opportunities for the region, including the NSU Band Clinic and South Dakota Jazz Festival.

Our Faculty

Meet our dedicated, talented instructors who will guide you as you pursue your passion in music.

FRIENDS OF THE ARTS/NSU YOUNG ARTIST COMPETITION

For Regional High School Juniors and Seniors

 

Learn More

 

Music Scholarships

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate research assistantship positions provide an exciting opportunity for strings players to pursue a graduate degree while teaching and doing research at Northern. Positions offer generous tuition remission and a stipend for up to two years. For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts at 605-626-2497.

Our Mission

The Northern State University music department serves as an instrument for the stimulation and motivation of creative and artistic expression in music.  Our primary responsibility is to assist students in the development of their musical potential through music classes, private instruction and participation in solo and ensemble performances.  Graduates with a music major or minor will be well-rounded in musicianship, pedagogy, music technology and performance.  This curriculum attracts students who desire the optimum preparation for their profession.  Supporting courses are also offered to students in other disciplines.