Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a rich tradition of providing quality education to students of color. These institutions offer a unique experience that prepares students for success in their chosen careers. If you are interested in studying music history, then you may want to consider attending one of the many fantastic HBCUs that have excellent music programs.
When it comes to finding the best HBCU for a music history major, you need to consider a few crucial factors. These include the quality of the faculty, curriculum, resources, and support available to students. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best HBCUs for music history majors.
Howard University, located in Washington D.C., is arguably the most famous HBCU with a reputable music program. The Department of Music offers several programs, including a Bachelor of Music in Music History, as well as Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. Students can choose to focus on music history in their coursework, gaining a deep understanding of the people, events, ideas, and cultures behind musical contributions to history.
Located in Durham, North Carolina, NCCU has a strong music program that offers a Bachelor of Music in Music History. The program incorporates a liberal arts curriculum, which provides a foundation in general education while also focusing on music history. Faculty members at NCCU are experienced and respected musicians and scholars in their field who provide students with rigorous academic training and practical experience.
- Florida A&M University (FAMU)
FAMU, located in Tallahassee, Florida, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music History. This program aims to prepare students for careers in musicology, research, performance, and teaching through a curriculum that emphasizes core music history, theory, and musicianship courses. FAMU’s Department of Music provides music majors with access to state-of-the-art technology and a range of performance opportunities to enhance their experience.
Alabama State University, located in Montgomery, Alabama, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music History. This program provides students with a comprehensive study of music history, as well as music theory, ear training, and performance studies. The faculty at Alabama State University is committed to preparing students for a range of careers in music, including as performers, composers, researchers, educators, and more.
- Clark Atlanta University (CAU)
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, CAU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in music history. This program allows students to study music in its historical and social contexts, with a curriculum that addresses the role of music in society and the relationship between music and other disciplines. Faculty members at CAU have diverse backgrounds in music history, performance, and education, and they are committed to providing students with a holistic music education.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking to be a historian, musicologist, or just want to understand musical arts from different cultures, these five HBCUs offer a great education in music history. Aside from academic excellence, student support is always important. Choosing amongst these schools may come down to factors such as tuition fees, location, and culture. At the end of the day, your career aspirations are the most important. It is always advisable to visit the school and speak to current students and faculty to determine which institution will be the best fit to help you achieve your goals.
