Students study with experienced and diverse faculty, perform individually as well as with chamber and large ensembles, and gain exposure to international concert artists and pedagogues. Instruction occurs through individual private training, master classes, seminars, workshops, teaching practicums, and recitals.
Career Preparation
We prepare our graduates for careers in performing, teaching, and church ministry.
In addition to numerous performance opportunities, both on and off campus, students work with local churches and/or teach pre-college students at the Academy of the Arts or in private studios. There are opportunities to attend and present at conferences, perform with a cross section of ensembles, and travel and participate in a variety of organizations including the MTNA, AMEA and AMTA.
"My studies at Samford has helped me grow as a person and as an artist, musician, and teacher. I’ve been equipped equally in both the performance and pedagogical aspects of the Piano Performance and Pedagogy degree program. At Samford, the two are not seen as separate entities, but as equal aspects of musicianship. My time here has helped me become a better musician: it has prepared me for further graduate study, enabled me to perform more artistically, and developed me into a more effective teacher. There are other schools that promise a good education, but Samford exceeds in providing an excellent education in a nurturing and encouraging environment in which students, faculty, and staff can all thrive. No amount of tuition dollars, special programs, or state-of-the-art facilities can promise this. Rather, this environment is reflective of the Christ-like hearts of the students, faculty, and staff that comprise the School of the Arts."
Cora Elmore '20, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance with Pedagogy Emphasis
Performance Opportunities & Venues
Student Ensembles
Piano students can participate in a variety of ensembles including Choir, Opera, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Chamber Ensembles, and campus worship teams.
Competitions
Students are prepared to compete in local, regional, and national piano competitions and festivals. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in Samford’s annual Fletcher and Neil Morris Piano Competition as well as in the annual concerto competition.
Guest Artist and Masterclasses
Samford invites internationally acclaimed concert artists to perform and interact with students, providing essential networking experience with industry professionals. Over the years, Samford has hosted some of the world’s best artists including Leon Fleisher, Jon Nakamatsu, Vadym Kholodenko, Jeremy Denk, Robert Plano, Gabriela Montero, and Marina Lomazov.
Performance Venues
Piano students have access to a variety of instruments and performance locations on campus. Students enjoy applied lessons in large studios equipped with two grand pianos. Additionally, Brock Recital Hall, Bolding Studio, Reid Chapel, and the Wright Center for Performing Arts all have concert grands and are renowned for their aesthetics and superior acoustics. In 2024, the Division of Music received a new Steinway Spirio, housed in Brock Recital Hall. Students also have access to practice and perform on an Italian modeled two-manual harpsichord as well as Nord stage pianos.
Learn more about our performance venues.
Keyboard Faculty
At Samford, you will study with a variety of full-time faculty along with guest artists and visiting professors.
Cindy St. Clair, , DMA, NCTM
Brent Reeves, DMA
Connie Rhea, MM, NCTM
Fred Teardo, DMA
Jodean Tingle, MM NCTM
Charles Kennedy, DMA
Frequently Asked Questions
Music graduates pursue a wide range of careers based on concentration and degree track. Career paths include but are not limited to:
- Band director
- Choral director
- Orchestra conductor
- Performing artist
- Professional orchestra member
- Contemporary artist
- Music historian
- Music theorist
- Organist
- Professional or military band member
- Collaborative pianist
- Concert pianist
- Recording artist
- Touring artist
- Opera singer
- Professional chorister
- Worship leader
- Professional choral singer
- Private teacher
- Music therapist
Graduates of the BS in Music often pursue advanced study in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, occupational therapy and other health fields while also working as musicians or educators. Graduates of the BA in Music often pursue second majors or minors and are prepared for careers as musicians, teachers, counselors, doctors, entrepreneurs and more.
No, a minimum GPA is not required to enter the program. Those who receive scholarships from the School of the Arts must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above.
Yes. To declare a major in the Division of Music, you must apply to both Samford University and the School of the Arts. Every music applicant is required to submit an artistic résumé and headshot and also complete an audition and interview.
