Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
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UArts’ Vocal Performance program offers you much more than just a solid academic foundation in proper vocal techniques: In our jazz- and contemporary-based curriculum you can also explore a variety of genres, including pop, Jazz, Pop, Classical, Musical Theater, R&B and more, performed by a rotating offering of vocal ensembles.
Class sizes are small, so you'll receive one-on-one attention and private lessons from faculty advisors and mentors, and you will have the opportunity to perform in many of over a hundred different musical performances taking place on UArts’ campus.
In 2020, the School of Music was ranked #2 in The 10 Best “Hidden Gem” Music Schools by Music School Central. UArts’ was also recognized as the 4th best contemporary jazz vocal performance program in the country in 2019. School of Music graduates have gone on to win Grammy awards and go on worldwide tours.
Quick facts
- Must complete 120 credits - see curriculum requirements below
- Students have weekly, hour-long one-on-one lessons with a teacher, and are able to participate in ensembles and join vocal concert series. Past events include tributes to the music of the 2000's, a Grammy Tribute and a tribute to Philadelphia musicians.
- Must submit an application by August 12, 2022.
- You are eligible for a wide range of academic scholarships available during the admissions process.
- You can transfer into UArts. Transfer student applications for the Fall semester will be accepted through August 12, 2022.
- The Vocal Performance program hosts a yearly concert series that includes recitals by student year, a faculty student recital during which students sing with their teachers and two concerts chosen by the students in the program.
Program Details
The School’s numerous performance ensembles represent a wide range of styles and categories.
Students are involved in a rigorous schedule of performances, with over 150 concerts and recitals presented each year.
Students graduating from the Vocal Performance degree program will demonstrate
- strong technique and artistry through the study of varied repertoire and technique exercises;
- knowledge and understanding of contemporary and traditional music theory;
- knowledge of fundamental aural skills through singing, sight-reading, dictation and solo transcription;
- understanding of jazz forms, improvisational concepts, and how to apply them to a broad range of musical styles;
- the ability to collaborate artistically with other performers, both vocal and instrumental, as a performer, arranger, creator and leader;
- the ability to compose, orchestrate and create musical arrangements; and
- knowledge of current technological applications to assist in the creation of one’s art.
Participating in ensembles is a core part of students’ experience in the Vocal Performance program. Joining an ensemble is typically a full academic year’s commitment. The offering of ensembles rotates regularly based on interest and availability. During the Fall '21 - Spring '22 semesters the School of Music ran 10 ensembles that included vocals: Arranged Standards, Women's Ensemble, Salsa Ensemble, Soul Ensemble, Octonics, Femme Ensemble, Jazz Composers, Vocal Session Ensemble, Rock Ensemble, and Grad Ensemble.
Vocalists also have frequent opportunities to perform with the School of Music’s two big bands ("Z" Big Band, and Transfusion Ensemble).
All vocal performance students are required to participate in six semesters of Chorus.
Students in the Vocal Performance program are able to take part in Semester Abroad and Short Travel programs that are offered by the University.
Curriculum
About the Curriculum
The Vocal Performance program curriculum provides a direct and practical education for students interested in establishing a career in jazz and/or contemporary music. The core of this curriculum includes theory and musicianship, piano, improvisation, technology, and music business. Additional study topics include recording, song writing, digital marketing and branding, non - major instrument study and a wide selection of music history and literature courses.
Students receive weekly, one-hour private lessons in vocal performance with renowned artist teachers. Ensemble and performance opportunities play a critical part in the student’s education by sharpening technical and improvisation skills and increasing the student’s command of repertoire and styles.
Sample Curriculum
Duration: Four years, full time
Credits: 120
Major requirements: 69 credits
Discipline history: 9 credits
Critical Studies: 33 credits
Free electives: 9 credits
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First Year
Fall:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Chorus (1 credits)
Music Theory I (3 credits)
Musicianship I (3 credits)
Class Piano (1 credits)
Writing I Placement (3 credits)
Free elective (your choice) (1 credits)
Spring:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
English Diction & International Phonetic Alphabet (1 credits)
Music Theory II (3 credits)
Musicianship II (3 credits)
Music Technology Survey (1 credits)
Writing II Placement (3 credits)
The first year of lessons and coursework aims to help students solidify their technique and lay the groundwork for advancing into more complex musical studies while still allowing them freedom to begin to explore various genres.
Second Year
Fall:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Jazz Theory I (3 credits)
Class Jazz Piano I (1 credit)
Jazz Musicianship I (3 credits)
Jazz Improvisation I (1 credit)
Thinking Through Science (3 credits)
Free elective (your choice) (1 credit)
Spring:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Jazz Theory II (3 credits)
Jazz Musicianship II (3 credits)
Class Jazz Piano II (1 credit)
Jazz Improvisation II (1 credit)
Critical Studies (your choice) (3 credits)
The second year of lessons builds on the foundation that was begun in the first year. The student has even more freedom to choose repertoire and genres that are of interest to them, all while strengthening their vocal technique.
Third Year
Fall:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Chorus (1 credits)
Comprehensive Musicianship (3 credits)
Advanced Piano & Accompanying I (1 credits)
Spring:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Discipline history (your choice) (3 credits)
Critical Studies (your choice) (3 credits)
Advanced Piano & Accompanying II (1 credit)
Free elective (your choice) (3 credits)
Upon reaching their junior year, students chose a new voice teacher to train and study with for the final two years of the Vocal Performance program. We want the students to begin thinking about the career path they want to pursue, and are empowered to explore their future options under the guidance of a teacher with a compatible creative focus, artistic practice and career experience.
Fourth Year
Fall:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Business of Music (2 credits)
Discipline history (your choice) (6 credits)
Spring:
Vocal Instruction (3 credits)
Senior Recital (0 credit)
Chorus (1 credits)
Ensemble (1 credits)
Critical Studies (your choice) (3 credits)
Free elective (your choice) (3 credits)
The senior year lessons are focused entirely on preparation for the senior recital. Students work with teachers to craft a performance for the senior showcase that demonstrates the students’ work, growth and achievements during the last four years, displaying their prowess and growth as artists and performers.
Explore the Full Curriculum
Alumni & Careers
Alumni Spotlight
The Vocal Performance program at University of the Arts will put you on the right track to a fulfilling career as a solo or ensemble performer, teacher or musical theater professional. Whether you pursue a career as an independent artist, in a band, or in the theater, you'll find your time at UArts has prepared you to meet the challenge.
Julian King
BM '15
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
The Voice, Season 2019, on John Legend's Team
Josiah Wise
BM '10
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Originally from Baltimore, MD, debut album 'soil', on national tour
Matt McAndrew
BM '13
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Runner-up on NBC's The Voice
Alita Moses
BM '15
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Currently touring with Jacob Collier
Anna Ready
BM '18
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
First student to graduate with a double major in both Vocal Performance and MBET.
Careers
The Vocal Performance program sets graduates up for success in a range of careers related to musical and vocal performance, and music-adjacent fields.
Career paths for Vocal Performance graduates include
- Vocal Performer/Independent Artist
- Music Educator (K-12 Public, Private, Catholic, Charter, and College)
- Song Writer Session/Commercial music Vocalist
- Vocal Coach
- Producer/Studio Engineer
Student Spotlight
Haley Joyner
'25
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Philadelphia native with performance experience throughout the city
Jamie Kaufman
'23
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Musician and music educator from South Jersey
Faculty Spotlight
Kevin Haden
Dean, School of Music
Dean, educator, musician, composer and lyricist
Liz Radigonda
MM '07; Vocal Performance Program Director
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Program Director; Vocalist who specializes in everything from classical to pop and rock
V. Shayne Frederick
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Has performed as soloist with the orchestras of Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, Philadelphia and Cincinnati
Reggie Pindell
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Has performed as soloist with the orchestras of Chicago, Baltimore, Detroit, Philadelphia and Cincinnati
Laurin Talese
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Actor, composer, lyricist, vocalist
Janine Whitt
Music - Vocal Performance (BM)
Singer, songwriter, educator
Events
The School of Music brings together many musical talents and skills, and offers many lively opportunities for students, faculty, staff and the public to experience musical performances and engage with students’ work.
The Vocal Performance program presents an annual series of seven concerts to showcase the talents, progress and creativity of its students:
- Four concerts are organized by student year, separately showcasing Senior, Junior, Sophomore and Freshman performers.
- One concert is the Faculty Student Recital, during which faculty members perform together with their students.
- Two concerts are chosen by the student body.
Past years have featured performances paying tribute to the 90's, a Grammy tribute, a performance of Spotify Top Ten tracks and a tribute to iHeartRadio hits.
Beyond these concert series, Vocal Performance students are able to perform in ensembles and other various recitals organized by students.
About the School of Music
The School of Music at University of the Arts is dedicated to the preparation and training of musicians for careers in music performance, production, recording, all aspects of the music business, composition and music education. Your growth as a musician is the primary goal of the program. In 2020, the School of Music was ranked #2 in The 10 Best “Hidden Gem” Music Schools by Music School Central.
The school trains you to be a professional of the highest caliber through a comprehensive curriculum that includes private lessons with an actively performing faculty, an abundance and diversity of ensembles and performance experiences, and a focus on information literacy and critical thinking.
Performance opportunities sharpen your technical and improvisation skills and increase your knowledge of repertoire and styles. The school’s numerous performance ensembles represent a wide range of styles and categories of classical, hip-hop, jazz, R&B and world music. You’ll be involved in a rigorous schedule of performances: UArts produces over 150 concerts and recitals each year.
Gallery
Vocal Performance
Graduating Vocal Performance students sing during the Commencement 2022 ceremony.
The School of Music Hip Hop Ensemble
Take a listen to the work of our Vocal Performance students on Soundcloud:
School of Music Celebrates Opening of Laurie Wagman Recording Studios
The opening of these state-of-the-art recording studios marks the culmination of the School of Music relocation and renovation project which features brand new rehearsal, classroom, office, lab and production spaces.
University of the Arts recently celebrated the grand opening of the Laurie Wagman Recording Studios on the 11th floor of Terra Hall. On Wednesday evening, Nov. 13, School of Music faculty, staff, students, university administrators and honored guests gathered to dedicate the space to its benefactor, Trustee Laurie Wagman. The opening of these state-of-the-art recording studios marks the culmination of the School of Music relocation and renovation project, which started in June 2018 and also features brand new rehearsal, classroom, office, lab and production spaces.
The dedication celebration included remarks from UArts President and CEO David Yager, School of Music Dean Micah Jones BM ’97 (Jazz Performance) MM ’99 (Jazz Studies) and Laurie Wagman. Remarks were followed by a ribbon-cutting and performance by UArts’ Transfusion ensemble, a highly dynamic group that programs an eclectic mix of sounds and primarily performs newly commissioned works by current students, alumni and faculty.
“The studios are a transformational gift to our School of Music and MBET program, which is experiencing incredible growth,” said Yager upon the announcement of the gift. “Laurie Wagman is deeply connected to the students and programs at UArts through her commitment of time and financial support and her personal relationships with students.”
Both recording studios are equipped with state-of-the-art, 24-channel API consoles and Antelope interfaces. There is a surround sound system in Studio A, while Studio B has a pair of Adam reference monitors. Both studios have a number of outboard compressors, equalizers and other effects processors. Studio A will also function as a fully analog space equipped with a 16-track tape machine.
“These are some of the best spaces I have ever seen in an urban university setting,” says Dean Jones. “Now, we have an environment where our students’ creativity can thrive. I cannot express how grateful we are for Laurie Wagman’s unwavering support of the school and where it is heading. Likewise, to our president, who has not only encouraged us to reimagine our campus, but has taken action to make those dreams a reality.”
Wagman’s generosity also helped create Laurie Wagman Presents, an MBET concert series managed and promoted by the program’s students, including Out of the Box, a series which promotes experimental, electronic and improvised music, mostly composed by MBET students and often featuring guest artists working at the fringes of their disciplines.
Wagman’s philanthropic focus is in the arts, education and social services, and she has been the recipient of numerous awards for her dedication to young people. She is the founder and president of American Theater Arts for Youth lnc. and American Family Theater. Under her four-decade leadership, the two organizations have presented professional, original musical productions to more than 32 million students throughout the U.S. In addition to University of the Arts, Wagman also serves on the boards of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the National Children’s Theater Alliance and the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society.
Learn more about about Uniquely UArts, the campaign for creative capital.
Laurie Wagman Recording Studios Gallery
These state-of-the-art recording studios feature brand new rehearsal, classroom, office, lab and production spaces.
Two recording studios are equipped with state-of-the-art, 24-channel API consoles and Antelope interfaces. There is a surround sound system in Studio A, while Studio B has a pair of Adam reference monitors. Both studios have a number of outboard compressors, equalizers and other effects processors. Studio A will also function as a fully analog space equipped with a 16-track tape machine.
Related Programs
MUSIC BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP & TECHNOLOGY (BS)
Music Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology
In the top-ranked Music Business, Entrepreneurship & Technology (MBET) Bachelor of Science (BS) degree program at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, you’ll learn the most up-to-date and comprehensive skills you’ll need to succeed and excel in where the industry’s going. Whether it’s running a recording studio, building audio electronics, marketing for artists and venues, or working with licensing and publishing, the MBET curriculum can be molded to fit your individual needs while preparing you for your desired career.
MUSIC - INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMANCE (BM)
Instrumental Performance
UArts will help put you on track to become a professional touring and recording musician, arranger, producer or music director. You will master your overall musicianship during core study subjects of arranging and orchestration, music business, music history, music theory and technology. UArts features 19 ensembles of varying genres, including the premiere "Z" Big Band ensemble. Through private lessons and ensembles, you will increase your command of diverse repertoire and styles.
MUSIC - COMPOSITION (BM)
Composition
In UArts’ four-year, 120-credit Music Composition BM degree program, you’ll find your own distinct voice and receive instruction from different teachers with their own unique expertise, allowing you to pursue your own path toward becoming a professional music composer. Learn music composition for every genre of music, and specialize in the genre that most interests you—including big band, classical, gospel, alternative rock, electronica and more.
How to Apply
UArts offers recommended priority deadlines; students who apply and submit all required materials by the priority deadline will receive first consideration for scholarship aid from UArts. Applications received after the priority deadline will be reviewed on a rolling, space-available basis.
International students requiring an F-1 visa for study in the U.S. might be subject to earlier deadlines to provide time for completion of the visa process. Contact Admissions for guidance if you are an international student who wishes to apply after the priority deadline.
Spring 2024 priority deadline: Oct. 15, 2023
Fall 2024 priority deadline: Feb. 15, 2024
We cannot accept spring 2024 applications after Jan. 8, 2024, and cannot accept fall 2024 applications after Aug. 16, 2024.
The following materials are required for your application.
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A completed application for admission
Start or resume your application.
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The application includes two required short-answer questions: What excites you about UArts? What inspires you?
A nonrefundable $60 application fee
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If you qualify for a fee waiver from NACAC, CollegeBoard, UArts or another source, indicate that on your application. If the cost of the application fee is a barrier, contact Admissions to request a fee waiver code.
Official high school transcript
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Official transcripts must be sent directly from your school by mail, email or a secure electronic document-delivery service.
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International transcript requirements
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If you’ve attended high school outside the U.S., read the additional guidelines for international transcripts.
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Transfer student transcript requirements
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High school transcripts may be waived for transfer applicants who have completed a minimum of 24 credits of college-level coursework, including a minimum of 18 academic, non-studio credits.
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Official college transcript(s)
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Official transcripts must be sent directly from all the colleges you have attended by mail, email or a secure electronic document-delivery service.
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If you’ve attended college outside the U.S., you are required to have an official course-by-course evaluation of your college coursework sent to UArts. Additional guidelines for international transcripts are available.
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Your audition
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Auditions or interviews are required for all Dance, Music and Theater programs. After submitting your application, go to your applicant status portal to register for your virtual or on-campus audition day. View a full list of audition requirements by program.
International applicants must submit proof of English proficiency.
Optional letters of recommendation
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Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors are optional and may be submitted by the recommender via email to undergradcredentials@uarts.edu or by your high school through a secure electronic document-delivery service.
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