student playing the flute during orchestra performance

Performance Major

Earn a BM in Music: Performance at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll be equipped as a musician to take your art to the next level—preparing for careers in performance, private teaching, or to pursue advanced degrees. You’ll expand your résumé and skillset by participating in musical ensembles, attending and performing in recitals, and honing your abilities in one-on-one lessons with world class musicians. You’ll have access to the greater Los Angeles area—a hub of diverse venues and opportunities—graduating ready to start a successful musical career.

Program at a Glance

The School of the Arts nurtures students’ faith and talents to develop and excel as world-class music professionals.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

  • Fall 2024: February 15, 2024 (priority)
  • Spring 2024: December 1, 2023 (priority)

Learn How to Apply

Program Information

  • Program Units: 85

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
Yellow ribbon icon

Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

student playing the violin at the orchestra

Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Foster professional connections with faculty-mentors in small class sizes.
  • Integrate faith and musicianship.
  • Participate in our many varied musical ensembles and perform regularly.
  • Choose from brass, wind, percussion, guitar, harp, organ, piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, or vocal.
  • Take advantage of performance opportunities in L.A., in all music genres from classical to pop

By the Numbers

#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
1 of 2 APU is one of only two universities in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities to be classified as an R2 Research University.

Get Started

Program Details

The Bachelor of Music in Performance with a performance emphasis prepares students for applied teaching and for advanced study in the performance area of their choice. In addition to music performance, courses in theory, music history, literature, and conducting give students thorough preparation in comprehensive musicianship.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

How to Apply

  1. Complete your APU Undergraduate Application
  2. Select your music major (if applicable)
  3. If eligible, complete your FAFSA (does not apply to international students)

Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, so students are encouraged to audition as soon as possible for best consideration.

Learn more about auditions and scholarships.

Auditions

All music students are encouraged to audition.

2023-2024 Audition Dates:

  • October 20, 2023
  • November 3, 2023
  • November 17, 2023
  • January 26, 2024
  • February 2, 2024
  • February 8, 2024
  • February 15, 2024

Learn more about auditions and scholarships.

Plan a Visit

Applicants are encouraged to visit a class or meet with one of our professors. Just fill out a COTA Visitation Form to visit us and explore our programs further. We look forward to meeting you!

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

  • Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). 
  • A degree from Azusa Pacific University is respected and recognized internationally, and accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). 

Career Outlooks and Outcomes


Men's Choir singing

APU Professor Sings on Golden Globe-Winning and Oscar-Nominated Film Dune

The vocals of Azusa Pacific University professor Michael Geiger, MFA, adjunct professor, School of the Arts, associate director, Men's Chorale, were featured in the film and soundtrack of the latest cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel, Dune, directed by Denis Villeneuve.

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

Related Programs

Commercial Music Major

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Audio Recording Track, Composing/Arranging Track, Instrumental Performance Track, Music Business Track, Vocal Performance Track

Performance, MM

  • Azusa

Available Concentrations:

Instrumental, Piano and Organ, Vocal