The Music Minor

Are you already performing in an ensemble? Are you taking private lessons? If the Zoellner Arts Center feels like your second home, you may have already completed a significant portion of the requirements for a Music Minor.

At Lehigh, the Music Minor is designed to be one of the most flexible academic paths on campus, rewarding your dedication to performance while giving you the tools to understand the music you play on a deeper level.

A Streamlined Path for Performers

With only 17 credits required to complete the minor, most students who are active in the department find that the path fits seamlessly into their existing schedule. The requirements are structured to prioritize your time in the rehearsal hall:

• The Performance Core: Your time in ensembles (Philharmonic, Jazz, Choir, etc.) and your private lessons count directly toward your minor requirements.
• The Foundational Course: Choose one of the following 3-credit courses to anchor your studies:
  • MUS 010: Introduction to Western Music
  • MUS 013: Music Cultures of the World
  • MUS 081: Introduction to Music Theory
• Academic Exploration: One additional 3-credit music course of your choice. This is your chance to dive into a specific interest, from Music History to Composition or Music Theory.
• Flexible Electives: The remaining credits are adaptable, allowing you to stack ensemble credits and lessons to reach the 17-credit total.

Why Minor in Music?

• Formalize Your Passion: Your transcript will officially reflect your commitment to the arts—a trait highly valued by graduate schools and employers who look for well-rounded candidates.
• Deepen Your Artistry: Exploring theory or global music cultures changes the way you hear every note you play in rehearsal, making you a more informed and capable performer.
• Creative Balance: Because the minor is built around performance, it often acts as a creative "release valve" for students navigating high-intensity majors in other colleges.

How to Declare

Since you are likely already active in our studios and halls, making it official is simple:

1. Review Your Progress: Take a look at your current credits—with the 17-credit requirement, you might be closer to finishing than you think.
2. Consult with Faculty: Chat with your ensemble director or a current instructor about your interests.
3. Meet with the Minor Advisor: Reach out to Professor Kyle Wernke. He will help you pick the appropriate classes to complete the minor, map out your remaining credits, and assist with the declaration form.