About the School of Music

The School of Music is one of three schools in WCU’s David Orr Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts, along with the School of Stage and Screen, and the School of Art and Design. This administrative structure enhances opportunities for students to work in cooperation with the other arts disciplines on campus, and also better enables us to serve the community and the region through concerts, workshops, and professional presentations on campus and throughout the region.

The School of Music faculty and students perform 150-200 concerts and recitals each year on Western’s campus and on tours throughout the region. Our free Tuesday night Concert Series features music faculty, guest artists, and students performing a wide variety of music in the Coulter Building’s Recital Hall.

Our student performing ensembles include traditional bands and choirs and many other ensembles, from saxophone quartets to Indonesian gamelan. In the fall, the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band is a particular favorite at home football games, and our Sound of the Season Concert is a holiday tradition.

The School of Music offers degree programs that are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

School of Music Mission

The School of Music serves as a primary advocate for the arts in the area, and as a source of musical culture and education for the region through performances, clinics, workshops, festivals, and consultant work. A commitment to excellence of scholarly and creative activity in music performance, pedagogy, research, and composition prepares students for the professional world. A highly active performance agenda both on and off campus provides students with many opportunities to use their musical training in direct service to the local and regional community.

The School of Music primarily serves North Carolina, but students are recruited nationally.

Friends of the Arts

Thank you to the Friends of the Arts, who make what we do possible.

Consider becoming a member of WCU's Friends of the Arts and be invited to exclusive exhibitions and events while contributing to student scholarships.

2023 FOA Member List