Build the skills to bring it to life.
Popular Music Performance
The Popular Music Performance program at Ohio University is designed for students who want to do more than study music. They want to create, perform, collaborate, and grow into fully realized artists.
Whether you’re a vocalist, instrumentalist, songwriter, or a hybrid of all three, this program gives you the space and support to develop your sound, your voice, and your artistic direction in today’s musical landscape.
Why Study Popular Music at OHIO?
Artist-centered training
Develop your technique alongside your identity, creativity, and artistic voice.
Small, focused program
Work closely with faculty who know you, your goals, and your artistry.
Real-world preparation
Gain experience performing live, collaborating in bands, and building a portfolio.
Creative versatility
Work across genres and roles—performer, songwriter, collaborator, and creator.
A unique program in the region
One of the few programs dedicated to popular music performance in a highly personalized setting.
What You’ll Do Here
This is a hands-on program built around the real work of being a musician. You’ll spend your time:
- Rehearsing and performing in popular music ensembles
- Taking weekly private lessons focused on your instrument and artistic development
- Writing, arranging, and interpreting songs
- Collaborating with other musicians in band settings
- Performing regularly in studio classes, concerts, and recitals
By the time you graduate, you won’t just have completed coursework—you’ll have built a body of work that reflects who you are as an artist.
A Place for Many Kinds of Musicians
We welcome students working across a wide range of instruments, styles, and approaches, including:
- Vocalists
- Guitarists, pianists, and instrumentalists
- Beat-makers
- Artists who incorporate technology into live performance
- Musicians blending traditional and contemporary practices
If you’re making music and want to grow as an artist, there’s a place for you here.
Ensembles & Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of the program. Students participate in dedicated popular music ensembles where they:
- Perform in band settings
- Arrange and rehearse collaboratively
- Take on leadership roles within groups
- Develop communication and creative decision-making skills
Students also have opportunities to participate in a wide range of ensembles across the School of Music.
What You’ll Study
The curriculum combines core musicianship with contemporary skills needed for today’s artists. You’ll develop abilities in:
- Performance and ensemble collaboration
- Music theory and aural skills
- Songwriting and arranging
- Music production and recording
- Music history and global musical traditions
- The business and industry of music
Students also take courses in music production and recording through Ohio University’s MDIA program, including:
- Live and remote recording
- The recording industry and distribution
- Music marketing and business practices
What You Can Do With This Degree
Graduates of the program pursue paths as:
- Performing artists and bandleaders
- Songwriters and recording artists
- Collaborative musicians and vocalists
- Music educators in contemporary styles
- Creators working across the modern music industry
Most importantly, you’ll leave with the skills to create your own opportunities and sustain a creative life in music.
Auditions & How to Apply
Admission to the Popular Music Performance program includes an audition demonstrating your musicality and artistic voice.
Audition requirements:
- Approximately 10 minutes of live performance (in-person or virtual)
- Any instrument or combination of instruments may be used
- Any combination of original music and cover songs can be presented
- Students may incorporate technology into their performance
Prospective students are encouraged to bring their own instruments or equipment as needed.
For specific questions about auditions or setup, please contact program director Dr. Sean Parsons (parsons1@ohio.edu).
Scholarships & Financial Support
Ohio University offers a range of talent-based scholarships and funding opportunities for incoming and transfer students.
Come Experience It
The best way to understand this program is to see it in action.
- Sit in on a rehearsal
- Visit a class
- Attend a performance
- Meet the students and faculty
College of Fine Arts visits typically happen on Fridays. Schedule yours here!
LIVE from OHIO
This is a place where you can:
- Explore what you want to say as an artist
- Collaborate with musicians who help you grow
- Create work that actually feels like you
If you’re ready to take your artistry seriously, we’re ready to work with you.
Let’s Connect
If you’re interested in learning more about the program, we’d love to hear from you.
Sean Parsons
Professor of Instruction – Popular Music Ensemble, Keyboard, Jazz Studies, Music Theory
parsons1@ohio.edu
Jessica Baldwin
Assistant Professor of Instruction – Voice
jessbaldwin@ohio.edu