Skip to main content
Majors
myBYUI
Directories
A-Z Index
Give
  • Home
myBYUI
Directories
A-Z Index
Give
Majors
  • Home
Bachelor of Musical Arts

Musical Arts: General Music Emphasis (B.M.A)

Department of Music
Students will also develop technical skills in a chosen performance area that produces artistic expression in individual and ensemble performance, balanced with focused study in an area outside of music. Students will understand the nature of professional work in music, including rehearsal and conducting skills, career development opportunities, and teaching skills.

General Music Introduction

A professor conducts a Chamber Orchestra who are performing.
Learn More About the General Music Program
Request more information about the General Music program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

Request More Information
Get Involved

The General Music program balances high-level artistry with real-world skills. You will spend your time doing hands-on projects, practicing your instrument, and learning how the music industry works.

Your classes will cover a mix of topics, including:

  • Music theory and analysis 
  • Music technology (using digital audio tools) 
  • Music history and literature 
  • Basic conducting and rehearsal skills 
  • Songwriting and arranging 
  • Focused studies in a non-music field of your choice 

You will also take individual music lessons and participate in ensembles every semester to keep your performing skills sharp.

Highlighted Courses

Students are required to participate in an ensemble each semester.

If you are interested in Musical Arts, start with one of the following courses:
Music in Western Civilization
April 15, 2026 03:17 PM
MUSIC 102
See Course Details
Music Technology
April 15, 2026 03:18 PM
MUSIC 209
See Course Details
Piano Skills
April 16, 2026 01:06 PM
MUSIC 256
Get Involved
Music Literature I - Middle Ages
April 15, 2026 03:19 PM
MUSIC 301
See Course Details
Music Literature II - Classic/Romantic
April 15, 2026 03:19 PM
MUSIC 302
Get Involved
Music Literature III - 20th Century/World
April 15, 2026 03:20 PM
MUSIC 303
Get Involved
Basic Conducting
April 15, 2026 03:21 PM
MUSIC 308
Get Involved
Scoring and Arranging
April 16, 2026 01:08 PM
MUSIC 387
Get Involved
4-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
Get Involved
See all required courses

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho graduates in music-related fields.

1 year

$26,115

Average Salary

5 years

$40,103

Average Salary

10 years

$61,827

Average Salary

Explore More Details

This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Musical Arts

Graduates with a degree in Musical Arts have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Musical Arts

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
David Djambov Environmental Portrait - July 2026
Career Possibilities
Careers in Musical Arts
August 19, 2026 02:31 PM
Learn about some rewarding careers in musical arts.
1 Min Read
Read More
Jazz
Beyond the Degree
Marketable Skills in the Musical Arts Program
August 19, 2026 02:44 PM
When looking for jobs, you may see sections on an application that ask you to list what skills you have learned throughout your college or career path.
3 Min Read
Read More

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics
AI in Musical Arts
You will learn to integrate artificial intelligence as a powerful tool to master music theory and history while significantly increasing the efficiency of your rehearsal sessions. Our curriculum also leverages AI to curate precise job opportunities and match you with ideal graduate programs to ensure your career strategy is as refined as your performance.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

Related Majors

Jazz students perform together at Jazz Festival.
Music: Jazz Studies Emphasis (B.M.)
If you have a love for jazz music, consider the Jazz Studies degree. You will get to learn a variety of jazz instruments, participate in recitals, and study the jazz genre. The Department of Music offers a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies with full and adjunct faculty for every jazz instrument, a Jazz Society, and opportunity to get off campus.
Get Involved
Student Organ Recital
Music: Organ Performance Emphasis (B.M.)
Master playing the pipe organ for concerts and services.
Get Involved
A man plays a Hamburg Steinway Piano in the BYU-Idaho Barrus Hall.
Music: Piano Performance Emphasis (B.M.)
Develop advanced skill and artistry in performing solo and ensemble piano works.
Get Involved
Closeup of violinists in the University Orchestra
Music: String Performance Emphasis (B.M.)
Master performance skill for instruments like violin, viola, cello, and bass.
Get Involved
A group of students holding mics sing together on stage.
Music: Vocal Performance Emphasis (B.M.)
Master singing technique, artistry, and stage presence for performance.
Get Involved
Trombone Players in the Symphony Band Concert
Music: Woodwind, Brass or Percussion Performance Emphasis (B.M.)
Master playing woodwinds, brass, and percussion instruments for performances.
Get Involved
University Orchestra presents panamania. Conducted by Rebecca Roesler.
Music Education Composite (B.M.Ed.)
The Bachelor of Music in Education (BMED) is a professional degree designed to prepare students for a music teaching career specializing in orchestra, choir, or band. Students will prepare to qualify for a K-12 teaching certificate. Students are given opportunities to teach in local schools, including a full semester of student teaching as the capstone experience.
Get Involved
Activities - Wheelchair Basketball - Dec 2024
Therapeutic Recreation (B.S.)
Use recreation and leisure activity to improve the health and well-being of patients.
Get Involved

Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
Get Involved
Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
Get Involved

Learn More About the General Music Program

Request more information and receive personalized information to learn how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

Request More Information