How strong is Dartmouth's music program for undergrads?
I'm a rising senior looking into colleges where I can major in something else but still keep up with music seriously. Dartmouth is on my list, but I'm not sure how its music program compares to bigger schools or actual conservatories. Does anyone have experience with classes, ensembles, or the music community there?
I play piano and would love to join chamber groups or take private lessons, maybe even do some composition on the side. Is that all possible for non-majors? I like the idea of a smaller school in New Hampshire, but I’m a little stressed about finding enough music opportunities. Would appreciate any insight from current students or recent grads!
I play piano and would love to join chamber groups or take private lessons, maybe even do some composition on the side. Is that all possible for non-majors? I like the idea of a smaller school in New Hampshire, but I’m a little stressed about finding enough music opportunities. Would appreciate any insight from current students or recent grads!
6 months ago
•
174 views
Grayce Gibbs
• 6 months ago
Advisor
Dartmouth's music program is quite strong, especially for a liberal arts college environment. While it can't offer the same scale or specialization as a large university or conservatory, it does provide robust opportunities for serious musicians—even those who aren't planning to major in music.
As a pianist, you'll be happy to know that Dartmouth supports private lessons through their Individual Instruction Program. Non-majors are welcome to audition for these, and if you qualify, you can often receive subsidized lesson fees. There are also several ensembles, including the Dartmouth Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and various jazz groups.
Composition has a unique twist at Dartmouth, too. The program has strengths in electronic and electroacoustic music, so if you're interested in blending traditional composition with tech, you'll find faculty support and excellent facilities (check out their Digital Music Studio for audio production and composition).
In terms of community, while the department is on the smaller side, this often means closer student-faculty interactions and more access to opportunities. The Hopkins Center for the Arts ("the Hop") is the heart of campus arts life, offering student-run concerts, faculty recitals, and visiting artist performances throughout the year. It fosters a tight-knit, supportive music community.
If you want the intensity and near-constant performance opportunities of a conservatory, Dartmouth might feel small in comparison. But as a place to seriously pursue music alongside another major, with a broad mix of traditional and progressive options, Dartmouth is a solid choice.
If you visit, try to sit in on a rehearsal or chat with current students to give you the best sense of fit.
As a pianist, you'll be happy to know that Dartmouth supports private lessons through their Individual Instruction Program. Non-majors are welcome to audition for these, and if you qualify, you can often receive subsidized lesson fees. There are also several ensembles, including the Dartmouth Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and various jazz groups.
Composition has a unique twist at Dartmouth, too. The program has strengths in electronic and electroacoustic music, so if you're interested in blending traditional composition with tech, you'll find faculty support and excellent facilities (check out their Digital Music Studio for audio production and composition).
In terms of community, while the department is on the smaller side, this often means closer student-faculty interactions and more access to opportunities. The Hopkins Center for the Arts ("the Hop") is the heart of campus arts life, offering student-run concerts, faculty recitals, and visiting artist performances throughout the year. It fosters a tight-knit, supportive music community.
If you want the intensity and near-constant performance opportunities of a conservatory, Dartmouth might feel small in comparison. But as a place to seriously pursue music alongside another major, with a broad mix of traditional and progressive options, Dartmouth is a solid choice.
If you visit, try to sit in on a rehearsal or chat with current students to give you the best sense of fit.
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Grayce Gibbs
Denver, CO
Dartmouth College (AB); Colorado School of Mines (MS)
Experience
4 years