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Welcome to the Music Department at Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý!

We’re glad you’re here. In today’s world of constant technological, economic, social, and political disruption, a world whose complexity increases exponentially with each new day, you are cutting through the noise and considering a life in music.

Maybe you are drawn in by the way sounds help you feel your feelings, make sense of life, and find meaning.

Maybe you are called by a need to experience flow states, where you communicate through actions that move faster than thought.

Maybe you seek the intense connection to others and personal growth that comes with performing and helping others perform.  

Our department’s mission is to help discover what makes music irresistible to you, hone that passion with knowledge and skills gained from hands-on experience, and help you become the best version of who you are.

Whether you are recording and mixing a fellow student’s band in our studio, learning to adapt basic musical patterns to compose your own pieces, performing across the continent on tour with one of our many and varied ensembles, or teaching in schools around the region, at Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý you have opportunities to become by doing that are limited only by the number of hours in a day.

By gaining first-hand experience under the stewardship of our creative, dynamic, and enterprising faculty, we will work together to help you become the musician you aspire to be. 

So take a look around, send me an email, ask some questions — or, better yet — come and and let me take you and your family on a tour.

I am confident you will see that our building doesn’t just house a school, it houses a family. And we would be so happy to welcome you into it!

Sincerely,

Dr. Evan Ware
Music Department Chair

Mission Statement

At the Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý Music Department, we cultivate a hands-on, creative environment where you can thrive in performance, musicianship, industry, and technology.

We are dedicated to fostering diverse musical practices that enrich lives and the human experience.

By promoting ethical and innovative career paths in performance, teaching, and the music industry, we empower you to achieve your highest artistic, scholarly, and professional potential.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to build an inclusive and dynamic community where music brings people together, fostering resilience and adaptability.

We aim to make music education accessible to all, inspiring you to reach your full potential.

Driven by a passion for music, we strive to create, collaborate, and innovate, ensuring that music's transformative influence enhances both individual lives and the broader community.

Core Values

• Community: Building a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Resilience: Encouraging perseverance and adaptability.
• Inclusivity: Embracing diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
• Innovation: Fostering creativity and forward-thinking approaches.
• Accessibility: Ensuring music education is available to everyone.
• Passion for Music: Inspiring a deep love and dedication to music.

Mission Statement

At the Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý Music Department, we cultivate a hands-on, creative environment where you can thrive in performance, musicianship, industry, and technology.

We are dedicated to fostering diverse musical practices that enrich lives and the human experience.

By promoting ethical and innovative career paths in performance, teaching, and the music industry, we empower you to achieve your highest artistic, scholarly, and professional potential.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to build an inclusive and dynamic community where music brings people together, fostering resilience and adaptability.

We aim to make music education accessible to all, inspiring you to reach your full potential.

Driven by a passion for music, we strive to create, collaborate, and innovate, ensuring that music's transformative influence enhances both individual lives and the broader community.

Core Values

• Community: Building a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Resilience: Encouraging perseverance and adaptability.
• Inclusivity: Embracing diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
• Innovation: Fostering creativity and forward-thinking approaches.
• Accessibility: Ensuring music education is available to everyone.
• Passion for Music: Inspiring a deep love and dedication to music.

Explore your passion for music through one of our hands-on degree paths. Whether you’re drawn to performance, composition, education, or the business side of the industry, our programs give you the tools to grow as a musician and a professional. You’ll study music theory and history, sharpen your skills in private lessons and ensembles, and gain real-world experience that prepares you for wherever your musical journey leads.

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Provides a broad education in music theory, history, and performance within a liberal arts context.

Bachelor of Arts in Music Industry Studies
One of the oldest programs in California. Provides a comprehensive understanding of music business, including technology, production, marketing, and management. Offers unique internship opportunities and connections with the Los Angeles music scene.

Bachelor of Music in Performance
Specialize in Guitar, Keyboard, Classical Instruments, Voice, or Commercial Music. Focus on technical proficiency and artistic development through solo and ensemble work.

Bachelor of Music in Composition
Training in compositional techniques, orchestration, and contemporary practices. Prepares you for careers as composers and arrangers.

Bachelor of Music in Pedagogy (Pre-Credential)
Prepares you for teaching music in schools. Meets the "Subject Matter Competency" requirement for the Single Subject Credential in Music.

Designed for students majoring in other disciplines. Offers a flexible curriculum including music theory, history, and performance opportunities.

The Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý Music Department features a distinguished faculty and dedicated staff who are vital to your success.

Our faculty includes accomplished performers, composers, and researchers who provide expert instruction and mentorship. They actively perform, have their compositions showcased globally, and contribute significant research to the field of musicology.

Roles:

Teaching: Leading courses in theory, history, performance, and technology.

Mentorship: Offering personalized guidance to students.

Community Engagement: Organizing and participating in concerts, workshops, and masterclasses.

Faculty & Staff Contact Information

At Cal Poly �ǿմ�ý, music students have access to dynamic spaces that support creativity, collaboration, and growth. From our Recital Hall and University Theatre to high-tech recording studios and rehearsal rooms, every facility is designed for hands-on learning. The music technology lab features industry-standard software and equipment, while our instrument collections and music library offer endless opportunities for exploration. Welcoming spaces like “the couches” and meeting rooms help foster a strong, connected community of artists and mentors.

Explore Our Facilities and Resources