About
About the Department

For almost nine decades, the University of Chicago Department of Music has shaped the study and practice of music, embracing both historical traditions and modern innovations. Its distinguished faculty guide graduate programs in Composition, Ethnomusicology, and Music History and Theory, and also provide an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree in music.
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Sound Practices & Intermedia Lab

Don Michael Randel Ensemble-in-Residence

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FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Department of Music FAQs cover key topics for students and faculty, such as undergraduate degrees and courses, graduate studies and exams, research and work opportunities, available resources, performance options, instruments, and music lessons.
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People
People

Explore the diverse individuals who shape our vibrant community. Discover dedicated faculty and lecturers advancing music education, Performance Directors leading ensembles, staff supporting daily operations, Artists-In-Residence sharing their talents, and graduate students enriching our academic and artistic environment.
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Faculty & Lecturers

Performance Directors

Staff

Artists-in-Residence

Graduate Students
Music Faculty Directory

Discover our outstanding faculty and lecturers who inspire and educate students in the Department of Music. The directory highlights the individuals central to the department’s success and ongoing innovation.
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Graduate
Graduate Programs

The Department’s graduate programs stands out for its rigorous and comprehensive approach to the study of music. Students can pursue degrees in Composition and Sound Practices, Ethnomusicology, or Music History and Theory, with an option for a joint PhD in Theater and Performance Studies (TAPS). These programs reflects the University of Chicago’s strong commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship.
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Composition and Sound Practices

Ethnomusicology

Music History and Theory

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Beyond the Classroom

Student Life

Courses

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Graduate Courses

MUSI 20127 Listening to K-Pop
Document the sound practices of sacred communities on Chicago’s South Side through ethnographic research, collaborative filmmaking, and digital mapping.
MUSI 21026 Bob Dylan
Explore what makes Bob Dylan compelling by examining his lyrics, music, and evolving performances across famous songs and deep cuts.
MUSI 24026 Listening In Place
This course engages students in a quarter-long music ethnography project documenting the music and sound practices of sacred communities on Chicago’s South Side.
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Undergraduate
Undergraduate Program

At the University of Chicago, the Department of Music offers flexible major and minor options, allowing you to pursue your unique interests—from composition and performance to scholarship and interdisciplinary studies. Current faculty lead cutting-edge research across diverse fields, ensuring you can engage with music in innovative ways.
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Major & Minor

Courses
Undergraduate Courses

MUSI 20127 Listening to K-Pop
Explore how K-pop’s distinctive sound and culture emerge through fan listening, industry structures, and close analysis of songs and videos.
MUSI 21026 Bob Dylan
Explore what makes Bob Dylan compelling by examining his lyrics, music, and evolving performances across famous songs and deep cuts.
MUSI 24026 Listening In Place
Document the sound practices of sacred communities on Chicago’s South Side through ethnographic research, collaborative filmmaking, and digital mapping.
Explore Undergraduate Courses →

Events
Alumni

News

PhD Candidate Ailsa Lipscombe wins Charlotte Frisbie Student Paper Prize

Sunday, April 29

music history and theory of music graduate students awards

Ailsa Lipscombe, Doctoral Student in Music History and Theory, was awarded the 2017 Charlotte Frisbie Student Paper Prize. Lipscombe's paper Disembodi...

Professor Robert Kendrick elected to Academy of Arts and Sciences

Wednesday, April 18

music faculty

Professor of Music Robert Kendrick, along with 15 other UChicago faculty members, has been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, one o...

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PhD Candidate Ailsa Lipscombe wins Charlotte Frisbie Student Paper Prize

Professor Robert Kendrick elected to Academy of Arts and Sciences