Admissions
The vibrancy of Luther's music program is rooted in a balance between the academic rigor of our acclaimed music major and the numerous opportunities for study and performance by students from all disciplines across campus.
At Luther the campus is alive with the sounds of seven choirs, three bands, three orchestras, two jazz bands, and nearly 1,000 student musicians. Our student musicians perform in large ensembles, faculty-coached chamber groups, private lessons, and master classes. Over 350 music majors study music theory/ear training, history, education, composition, church music, and performance. It all adds up to one of the largest collegiate music programs in the world!
Martin Luther—our namesake—believed music to be “one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.” For over 130 years Luther students have been sharing this marvelous gift with audiences across the country and around the globe.
Music is much more than a gift, though. It’s an integral part of the community of faith and the community of learning on campus. The arts are fundamental to the liberal arts experience at Luther; they help to define what it means to be human. Here creative scholarship, the joy of discovery, personal growth, worship, and social relations merge to create an understanding for the wholeness of life.
Music Program Prospective Students
Prospective students who wish to enroll in the music program must first apply for admission at Luther College.
Students are strongly encouraged to schedule a scholarship audition for private lesson study. This audition may be scheduled any time during the year before March 1 by calling the Admissions Department (1-800-458-8437).
Luther College is committed to the idea that music is important in the lives of all students. Any student, regardless of major, is eligible to audition for an ensemble or to take private lessons. More than half of the 1,000 students taking private lessons are majors in other areas. Students receive academic credit for these lessons.
Links for Prospective Students
Transfer Students
Prior to registration, all transfer students must make an appointment with the music department head to determine music transfer credits. Transfer students expecting to receive credit in music theory, music history, ear training must make an appointment with the music faculty. All transfer students must also perform an audition on their primary instrument.
Any transfer student expecting to graduate with a music major at Luther College must complete at least 8 hours of course work in the department and at least 3 semesters of private lesson study.