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Associate of Arts in Music Studies

DEGREE TYPE

A.A.

TIME TO COMPLETION

2+ years

LOCATIONS

Manchester

MODE OF STUDY

On-Ground, Hybrid

CAREER FIELD

Arts (Performing and Visual)
Communication/Media

The CT State Manchester Music Studies associate in art degree is the only two-year degree in Music Studies offered in Connecticut. The program is accredited by the National Association for Schools of Music and provides students with exceptional and affordable music instruction in the areas of music history, music theory, music technology and music performance. Individualized vocal and instrumental instruction is also offered.

The Music Studies program prepares students with the knowledge and skills required for direct employment in a music-related career or with a transfer-oriented course of study towards a baccalaureate degree program in the music profession.  The program also serves an ever-expanding population of students seeking personal enjoyment in the study of music. Students may enroll in the program on a full- or part-time basis. The music faculty and staff bring an understanding of the community college student to their teaching approach.

Students who are thinking of transferring are encouraged to meet with a member of the music faculty to discuss how courses transfer to other institutions. Many Manchester music students have received baccalaureate degrees from one of the Connecticut state universities, the University of Connecticut or The Hartt School of the University of Hartford.

A Career in Music

Because the study of music can be combined with many interests, individuals who complete a degree in Music Studies will have employment opportunities in a number of areas: music education, instrumental and vocal performance, composing and arranging, recording, retail business and music technology. Some potential career choices are:

  • Accompanist
  • Church Choir Director
  • Composer/Arranger
  • Disk Jockey
  • Instrumentalist
  • Lyricist
  • Music/Voice Teacher
  • Music Store Manager
  • Singer
  • Sound Technician

    Resources

    These websites provide additional information on careers in the music field:

    Get Started

    Curriculum

    See learning outcomes and required courses for the Music Studies program.

    Contact

    Dr. Deborah Simmons
    Professor, Program Coordinator Music Studies
    Phone: 860-512-2674
    Email: deborah.simmons@ctstate.edu 

    Learn More

    Accreditation

    CT State Manchester’s Associate of Arts in Music is nationally accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music Studies (NASM) and in good standing.

    Audition Requirements

    In compliance with the National Association for Schools of Music (NASM) accrediting standards, students interested in pursuing the college’s Music Studies associate degree program are required to audition with a member of the music faculty to determine their level of instrumental or vocal music proficiency. Auditions are scheduled for 15 minutes, and students will be required to perform, in person, two contrasting compositions.

    Audition Specifics

    • Students wishing to matriculate into the Music Studies associate degree program must complete and return the audition application.
    • The audition process is designed to assess a student’s proficiency in the ability to:
      • Read and interpret standard musical notation
      • Produce an acceptable tone quality on one’s instrument or voice
      • Perform with rhythmic clarity and consistency of pulse
      • Perform with acceptable intonation (being in tune)
      • Perform with an understanding of phrasing and style
    • An accompanist will be provided upon request. The student may also bring his/her own.

    Note: Students who indicate prior theory instruction may have the option to be tested and receive credit for MUS* B115: Music Theory I.

    Audition Dates

    Spring 2025 Semester

    Please check back soon for upcoming audition dates!

    Performing Artist Health and Safety Information

    Students are encouraged to supplement information obtained in their lessons, master classes and guest lectures regarding performing artist health and safety issues by using some of the resources listed below. Additionally, students are encouraged to take advantage of the Performing Arts Medicine Association (PAMA in order to obtain information about available local resources. To become a student member of PAMA, please go to artsmed.org/membership-levels.

    Injury Prevention and Performing Artist Health

    Hearing Health

      Musculoskeletal Health and Injury

      Psychological Health

          Injury Prevention and Performing Artist Health

          Although CT State Manchester’s acoustically-treated practice, rehearsal and performance facilities meet OSHA Noise Standards, students must be mindful of exposure to excessive noise levels for extended periods of time. OSHA guidelines define excessive noise levels as 90 decibels or higher for more than eight hours. For more information, please review the decibel comparison chart and musical decibel level chart, which is specific to musical performance and listening.