School of Music

About the School of Music

The School of Music is a full member of the National Association of Schools of Music and a member of the Association of Illinois Music Schools. We offer the Bachelor of Music degree in Performance, Music Education, Composition, Music Business, Music Therapy, and Jazz Studies, and the Master of Music degree in Performance, Music Education, Conducting, Composition, Piano Pedagogy, Musicology, and Jazz Studies.

Certification as a music therapist is available through the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT).

Our Vision

The Western Illinois School of Music will be an indispensable and dynamic presence within the cultural and educational life of Western Illinois University and the region, fostering musical community and creativity through excellence in teaching, scholarship, performance, and community engagement.

Our Mission

The WIU School of Music provides superior educational experiences and educational opportunities that empower creative individuals and communities within WIU and the surrounding regions.

Our Values

Opportunity: We provide teaching, mentorship, performances, and learning experiences that are focused on personal growth and leadership development.
Community: Through collaboration at student, faculty, and community levels, we foster an inclusive and diverse group of students and faculty with shared musical values and traditions.
Expertise: Our faculty are active and experienced professionals in their field, who mentor and support students through their transformation from students to professionals and independent life-long learners.
Creativity: Innovation and imagination are the foundation of our scholarship and our musical artistry, expressed by students and faculty alike.