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A student plays the electric guitar during practice with the jazz band in Kincaid Concert Hall.

Music Industry Performer

Part of: Music Program

Offered as: Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Music

Part of: Music Program

Offered as: Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Music

Grow as a Performer in Today’s Music Landscape

Western’s music industry performer program blends performance, creativity, and the business side of music. You’ll develop your skills as a performer while gaining hands-on experience in studio production, music technology, and songwriting.

Along the way, you’ll explore how the industry works—from marketing and event promotion to copyright, contracts, and music law. With a mix of creative practice and real-world knowledge, you’ll learn how music moves from the stage and studio to audiences around the world.

By the time you graduate, you’ll have experience across performance, production, and the industry behind it, giving you the tools to create, collaborate, and navigate today’s evolving music landscape.

Experiential Education

  • A DJ does live, on-air mixing.

    Arts – Quigley Records

    Quigley Records gives students the chance to step into the studio, work with real artists, and gain hands-on experience in music production.
    Read More
  • Group photo of the Western Jazz Band after a performance at The Almont.

    Music – Concerts

    Western's Music Department offers many different concerts and events for the community and beyond.
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  • Student plays the saxophone during practice with the jazz band

    Music – Ensembles

    Students explore their passions through ensembles, including opportunities to perform and create music.
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Music Industry Performer Requirements

Emphasis

A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor. By tailoring your coursework, a major emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado Foundation offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships
1

Top Skills

Business Management
Contract Negotiation
Film Composing
Live Sound
Music Composition
Music Production
Promotion & Marketing
Publishing & Licensing
Studio Recording
Talent Management
Video Game Composing

2

Career Pathways

Advertising & Promotion Manager
Entertainment & Recreation Manager
Music Publicist
Recording Engineer
Talent Scout
Sound Technician

Program Council Battle of the DJs

Program Council Battle of the DJs

Battle of the DJs: heavy bass, zero mercy — come see who owns the night. 🎧🔥
Mar 27

Program Council Battle of the DJs

Friday, March 27, 8:00pm
Apr 07

The Damson Annual Music Competition

Tuesday, April 7, 6:00pm
Apr 14

Jazz Band & Steel Band Concert

Tuesday, April 14, 6:00pm
Apr 16

WCU Choir Concert

Thursday, April 16, 6:00pm
Apr 18

West Elk Wranglers X Elks Lodge Line Dance

Saturday, April 18, 8:00pm
Apr 21

Orchestra Concert

Tuesday, April 21, 6:00pm
Apr 24

SpringFest-Night One!

Friday, April 24, 6:00pm
Apr 25

SpringFest-Night Two!

Saturday, April 25, 12:00am
Apr 28

Symphonic Band & Percussion Ensemble Concert

Tuesday, April 28, 6:00pm
All Music Events

Latest News

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  • Western to host annual Firemen’s Concerts

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National Association of Schools of Music Accreditation

Western Colorado University’s Music Department is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), ensuring a high-quality education that prepares students for success in their musical careers.

Learn More About NASM

FAQ:

What kinds of careers can I pursue after earning a music industry performer degree?

Western’s music industry degree prepares students for careers in artist management, music production, recording engineering, concert promotion, music publishing, and entertainment marketing.

How does a music industry performer degree differ from a traditional music performance or music education degree?

Western’s music industry degree focuses on the business, production, and technology sides of music, while performance and education degrees emphasize musicianship and teaching. Western’s program offers a well-rounded approach for creative entrepreneurs.

What skills will I gain through a music industry degree performer program?

Through a music industry degree, students develop skills in music technology, project management, marketing, and collaboration — essential for success in the fast-paced world of modern music.

Faculty & Staff

Ben Justis, DMA

Chair of Music; Assistant Professor

Conner Shaw

Lecturer of Music

Music Program

Chair

Contact Information

970.943.3093

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Quigley Hall 202
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

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