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Columbia College Chicago (Music Department)
Chicago, Illinois (department within a college)
Columbia College Chicago (Music Department)
Chicago, Illinois (department within a college)
Columbia College Chicago's music dept offers contemporary, jazz, and electronic programs in songwriting, performance, and music business, serving diverse urban students at the heart of Chicago's arts community. The curriculum is practical and career-oriented, emphasizing real-world experience, Chicago industry connections, and an inclusive student culture that reflects the city's extraordinary musical breadth.
Quick Facts
Program
Program size: medium
Primary genres/styles: classical, contemporary, country, folk, jazz
Primary instruments/disciplines: bassoon, cello, clarinet, double bass, flute, guitar, horn, oboe, organ, percussion, piano, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, tuba, viola, violin, voice
Primary areas of study: classical performance, composition, conducting, jazz studies, music education, music theory
Admissions
Selectivity: less selective
Competitiveness: non competitive
Audition required: required
Average GPA: 3.2
Prescreening required: is not required
Program Overview
Primary Instruments
Students at Columbia College can pursue study across a range of instruments, including bassoon, cello, clarinet, double bass, flute, guitar, horn, oboe, organ, percussion, piano, saxophone, trombone, trumpet, tuba, viola, violin, voice. Students study privately with faculty in their primary instrument while participating in ensembles and collaborative performances.
Music Genre/Style Strengths
The program at includes strength in the following musical genres or styles: classical, contemporary, country, folk, jazz. Students often explore multiple styles while developing strong technical and artistic foundations within their primary genre.
Music Degrees Offered at Columbia College
Students at Columbia College can pursue degrees focused on: classical performance, composition, conducting, jazz studies, music education, music theory. Degree programs typically combine private instruction, ensemble participation, music theory coursework, and performance opportunities designed to prepare students for careers in music. Check the school's website for more specific information.
How Competitive Is Admission to Columbia College?
Admission to music at Columbia College is generally considered to be less selective.
Columbia College Acceptance Rate
Admission to Columbia College is less selective. Music schools typically admit only a small percentage of applicants each year, and the effective acceptance rate can vary significantly by instrument, voice type, or program.
Unlike most academic programs, music admission decisions are also based on performance and artistic potential. Applicants compete for a limited number of studio positions, and the number of openings may differ each year.
Prospective students should consider both the school’s overall selectivity and the availability of openings in their specific area of study.
Auditions
Admission to Columbia College Chicago (Music Department) requires an audition demonstrating musical ability, technical proficiency, and artistic potential.
Many music schools also require a prescreen recording before applicants are invited to a live audition. Audition requirements typically include:
- Two contrasting pieces demonstrating musical range
- Technical work such as scales or etudes
- Sight-reading or improvisation, depending on the program
- For composition or production programs, a portfolio of original work
Because repertoire requirements vary by instrument and program, applicants should review the official audition guidelines before preparing their repertoire.
Timeline
Application deadline: ?
Prescreen recordings due: ?
Live Auditions: ?
Applicants should confirm specific deadlines with the official admissions office, as schedules may vary.
Location and Music Scene
Columbia College Chicago is embedded in the South Loop, blocks from Grant Park and a city that gave the world electric blues, house music, jazz, and one of the richest urban music cultures alive.
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