The University of Nevada, Reno School of Music prepares students for careers in music and beyond. We develop critical thinkers who engage empathetically with their world and make meaningful contributions as performers, educators, scholars, composers, and technicians. We challenge established knowledge and experiences through attention to a diverse and multifaceted curriculum leading to a broad understanding of music. We empower students of all majors and backgrounds to develop versatile skill sets and a confident, creative voice through close mentorship and collaboration. Our world-class faculty and facilities provide learning and aesthetic experiences that enrich communities from the Reno-Tahoe region to the international stage.
Supporting student success
Our graduates are found in prestigious post-baccalaureate programs, professional orchestras and service bands, and teaching music in primary, secondary, and collegiate institutions. We equip students with skills in creativity, problem solving, and collaboration that can be combined with dual majors in STEM fields and lead to successful graduate program admissions. We offer competitively awarded undergraduate music talent scholarships. At the graduate level, we offer graduate assistantships that include full tuition waivers and generous stipends.
Top-flight facilities
Our beautiful new University Foundation Arts Building presents one of the finest acoustic environments for practice, rehearsal and performance in the United States. The building features acoustically tuned practice rooms, large ensemble rehearsal spaces, a state-of-the-art recording studio, an electroacoustic composition lab, and the magnificent Harlan O. & Barbara R. Hall Recital Hall. Along with the venerable Nightingale Concert Hall and teaching spaces in the Church Fine Arts Building, Nevada provides the perfect place to create, learn, and grow.
A region dedicated to the arts
The Reno-Tahoe region supports two professional symphony orchestras, a professional jazz orchestra, theater and ballet companies and a multitude of festivals and cultural events. Our campus is connected internationally by the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and is within driving distance of Lake Tahoe, the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range and the San Francisco Bay area.
The University of Nevada, Reno is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The music education program is a member of the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Academic majors
The School of Music offers three bachelor's degree programs, a Bachelor of Music (Applied Music), a Bachelor of Music (Music Education) and a Bachelor of Arts (Music).
Undergraduate auditions
All prospective students are required to audition for admission to the program. Learn more about audition deadlines and requirements.
Music scholarships
The School of Music offers talent scholarships to incoming undergraduate students. For consideration, students must be admitted University students and submit a scholarship application.
Graduate programs
The School of Music offers multiple graduate tracks at the master's and doctoral level, ranging from a Master of Music in Music Education to a Doctor of Musical Arts.
Graduate auditions
All prospective graduate students are required to audition for admission to the program. Learn more about audition deadlines and requirements.
Graduate assistantships
The School of Music offers a range of graduate teaching assistantships, ranging from $8,000 to $19,000 per year.
Ensembles
The School of Music provides multiple ensemble opportunities, from Marching Band to jazz ensembles, for students to hone their musical craft.
Our faculty and staff
The School of Music is home to world-renowned musicians, artists and instructors. Meet our faculty and staff.
Practice rooms
The School of Music has practice rooms available to music majors or students enrolled in music classes. Learn more about reserving a practice room.
Performance venues
The School of Music has two performance venues, the Harlan O. Barbara R. Hall Recital Hall and Nightingale Concert Hall. Learn more about each venue, event parking and more.
Recitals
Students wishing to schedule a recital must coordinate through their applied instructor. Learn more about scheduling recitals, recital policies, recordings and more.
Placement exam
All incoming undergraduate and graduate students are required to take entrance examinations to determine elifibility for enrollment.
Faculty resources
The School of Music provides a range of resources for faculty, including a faculty calendar, facility reservation forms, handbooks and more.