The Carnegie Mellon School of Music firmly believes that service to the university student in a field of study outside of the school is critical to meeting its larger mission. Extending high-quality training to those who will be future arts consumers and amateur practitioners is crucial to the growth and health of the art of music. In addition, sharing the intrinsic value of music training to students in other fields enriches their undergraduate education.
The Music Extension Division serves Carnegie Mellon students who are not music majors but who are seeking to start or further their musical training. Studio lessons from practicing professionals are available at all levels from beginner to advanced. For beginning students, the focus is on building a strong technical foundation with attention to reading, basic theory, and technique. Intermediate and advanced students will encounter a curriculum tailored to their specific skill level and goals. The Music Extension Division is also a way of preparing non-music majors for auditions into the music minor or music major programs, or to prepare for external competitions.
Students are expected to participate and prepare for each lesson according to guidelines designated by each instructor. Instructors discuss grading criteria based on skill level and experience at the outset of every semester. Students are invited to participate in an end of the semester recital. At the discretion of the studio teacher, this performance may be required of a more advanced student.