The Olivet Nazarene University School of Music offers limitless opportunities for students to hone their musical craft. From worship services to the concert hall, you’ll find music in every corner of the campus.
Learn why Olivet’s dedication to faith and integrity have earned its rank as Illinois's number one Christian university.
We offer several different ways for you to visit our beautiful campus! Whether you visit in person or online, choose a personalized visit or energetic event day, we want to show you all that Olivet has to offer.
It all starts here! We accept applications on a rolling basis throughout the year. All completed applications receive equal consideration.
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A) or minor in Music is offered as a liberal arts degree in music, comprised of general education, the core music curriculum, and elective courses. This degree allows students to have flexibility in enrolling in elective courses to fit a wide variety of interests. It is not uncommon to combine the B.A. in Music with another major.
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music Composition is offered for students who are interested in the entire, comprehensive creative process of music. The emphasis in this degree program is on composing music in the traditional forms, as well as developing an individual style of composition.
The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Music Education is for students who have chosen a career in music education. This degree meets the requirements of the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Professional Educator Licensure, which qualifies graduates to teach and supervise music in grades K-12. Students complete one of two tracks in this major: General/Instrumental or General/Vocal.
The Bachelor of Music (B.M.) in Music Ministry is for students who feel called to full-time music ministry in the Church. Regardless of the style, Olivet’s Music Ministry program is preparing future worship leaders and musicians for ministry in the local and global Church.
The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Music Performance is offered for students who display a high caliber of skill, and desire to pursue a career in solo and ensemble performance, accompanying, or college or private teaching. Students study their primary instrument (voice, piano, organ, wind instruments, string instruments, percussion instruments) closely with seasoned faculty who are also skilled performers.
Musical Theatre is for students who wish to pursue two great arts: music and theatre. Each semester, students study acting, directing, dramatic literature, music as well as technical theatre and stagecraft. Olivet offers an ideal combination of artistic freedom and professional nurturing in a Christian environment.
Larsen Fine Arts Center is the home of the School of Music. The building is filled with classrooms, studio space, practice rooms, rehearsal halls and Kresge Auditorium, which hosts musical performances, recitals, plays, lectures and more.
Don Reddick is a pianist, arranger and conductor — a gifted and talented musician who has devoted his life to music. Whether accompanying soloists, choirs, or church congregational singing, his unique keyboard artistry distinguishes him from all others.
Countless music ensembles make up the performance opportunities offered each year. From opera to orchestral, jazz to jam sessions – there’s a place for everyone in the School of Music.
Olivet's School of Music hosts a variety of concerts and events on campus for campus and community alike. Many events are general admission and free, while some require tickets.
Each year, Olivet provides numerous scholarship opportunities for talented musicians. Whether you have decided to be a music major or not, Olivet offers all incoming new students the opportunity to audition for music scholarships including voice, band, orchestral instruments, piano and composition. Click on the links to learn more.
Ready to take the next step? Applying takes only a few minutes and is a great way to get the ball rolling. It helps us know you are serious about college — and considering Olivet. We will take it from there!
Excited to experience more? We’d love to plan a personalized visit just for you. Click below and we’ll schedule a time for you to travel to Olivet, take a campus tour, meet your admissions counselor and visit with a professor.
Explore campus with an online tour and set up a virtual meeting with your admissions counselor. Of course, you will want to come to campus as soon as possible, but our online visit should help you in the meantime.
