BFA

4-Year Program

The Music BFA program offers a broad and rigorous general musical education alongside highly individualized lesson instruction and mentoring. All undergraduate students engage in intensive shared training in musical techniques and concepts spanning classical, jazz, popular, electronic, and experimental styles, and both Western and non-Western musical cultures. They will graduate with experience in creating original work, ensemble performance, music notation and theory, professional development, and artistic metiers outside of music.

About the Specialization

Undergraduate students of piano and keyboard develop their skills through major lessons, piano workshops and performance forums. The program of study covers Western classical music from the Baroque to cutting-edge contemporary styles, while faculty encourage students to incorporate diverse musical cultures, improvisation techniques, digital media and interdisciplinary performance into their individual studies. The curriculum also includes classes in composition, creative skills and pedagogy, allowing students to build a well-rounded, versatile skill set.

Rigorous ensemble work focuses on chamber music, chamber orchestra, Baroque ensemble and collaboration with the principal conducted faculty-student group, The Ensemble at CalArts.

All BFA candidates are required to pass a Mid-Residence Recital and a Graduation Jury and Recital in order to obtain the degree.

Full Curriculum

View Curriculum Requirements


The Undergraduate Experience

CalArts is committed to providing a broad program of general education designed to enable students to consider aesthetic questions within larger socio-cultural, ethical and political contexts.

Learn more about the General Education curriculum


Interdisciplinary Opportunities

In addition to CalArts' rich and diverse community and naturally collaborative atmosphere, the Institute provides several programs of study that can be pursued concurrently with a student's chosen metier.

Music Theory Minor

The Minor is intended for undergraduate students who wish to receive advanced training and accreditation in Music Theory as a supplement to their major.

Music Theory Minor

Digital Arts Minor

The Minor is designed to help undergraduate students grasp the knowledge to build, engineer and design innovative custom systems.

Digital Arts Minor


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