Music
Program Overview
The Simpson University Department of Music develops musicians through comprehensive study of the musical enterprise from a Christ-centered perspective. Students are prepared for careers in music ministry, music production, music education, and music performance. The Music Department also serves the greater community through performance opportunities and cultural enrichment.
Upcoming Music Events
Simpson University’s Music Department hosts a variety of concerts throughout the academic year that highlight the creativity and skill of our student musicians and faculty. Regular performances include choral and instrumental concerts, ensemble showcases, and student recitals, offering a diverse range of musical styles and experiences. These events provide meaningful opportunities for students to perform publicly and for the campus and surrounding community to engage with the arts in a vibrant and welcoming setting.
IN THE HARMONY OF NOTES, WE DISCOVER THE UNIVERSE OF EMOTION, WHERE MELODY AND RHYTHM PAINT THE CANVAS OF OUR INNERMOST FEELINGS.
Specializations and Emphases
Worship Arts
The Worship Arts specialization is a professionally focused degree designed for students called to lead worship through music in church and ministry contexts. With a strong foundation in music theory, performance, and worship leadership, this program equips students to serve as skilled, theologically grounded leaders in contemporary Christian worship.
Music Liberal Arts
The Liberal Arts Emphasis is ideal for students seeking a broad and flexible foundation in music within the context of a well-rounded education. Combining core musicianship training with the freedom to explore diverse academic interests, this emphasis supports careers in music education, worship arts, media, or further graduate studies. This pathway is ideal for those who wish to integrate musical gifts with a calling across multiple vocations.
Commercial Music
The Commercial Music specialization prepares students to thrive in today’s dynamic music industry by blending classical training with modern creative skills. Students develop a strong foundation in music theory, performance, and history while diving into songwriting, recording techniques, music technology, and real-world applications like internships and senior projects.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Artistic Synthesis: Students will be able to relate a wide range of music proficiencies to a culminating or capstone artistic endeavor.
- Performance Skill: Students will be able to perform (on their chosen instrument) at professional level.
Ensembles
Vocal Ensembles
Chorale
Directed by Lauren Dillon, is an auditioned mixed ensemble specializing in advanced vocal and choral techniques.
Simpson Symphonic Choir
Directed by Lauren Dillon, the Symphonic Choir is a community chorus sponsored and hosted by Simpson University. It is open to all Simpson students, faculty, and staff as well as community members. Repertoire includes a variety of chorale literature, but focuses primarily on the performance of large scale choral works. Simpson Symphonic Choir performs in conjunction with the Shasta Symphony Orchestra.
Anyone interested in joining, please contact Lauren Dillon
Instrumental Ensembles
The Shasta Symphony Orchestra
The Shasta Symphony Orchestra is a collaboration between Shasta College and Simpson University and is conducted by Dr. Jeff Specht, Music Theory and Orchestra Instructor at Shasta College. It consists of students from both institutions, as well as musicians from within the community. The mission of the Shasta Symphony Orchestra is to help students reach their artistic and educational goals by providing them with a challenging and successful performance experience, in addition to contributing to the overall enrichment of the arts programs within the Redding community.
Jazz Ensemble
The Simpson University Jazz Ensemble is open to all Simpson students by audition. Jazz Ensemble performs in a wide variety of styles including rock, pop, jazz, Latin, and funk.
Audition Requirements
New and transfer students do not need an audition to be a music major or minor, but they do need to audition if they would like to apply for a Music Scholarship. Students must complete a music audition for scholarships prior to the beginning of the semester. This is arranged through the admissions department or the music department.
Audition procedure:
· Contact the Music Department to set up a live audition (if you are unable to audition in person, other arrangements can be made).
· Perform two contrasting pieces (live or send YouTube recording).
· Submit two references.
· Share in a live audition or submit a video testimony of your musical and faith journey (2-3 minutes).
*Understand that commitment to participate and perform in musical groups as required may be to the exclusion of other time-consuming activities and obligations.
Music Minor
Required Courses
- Music Appreciation: Rock History
- Music Theory I
- Music Theory II
- Music Theory Lab I
- Music Theory Lab II
- Philosophy of Music & Worship -OR- Music Technology -OR- Songwriting
- Performance Ensembles
- Private Instruction
- Studio Class
“I have been having a fabulous time so far as a music and worship major at Simpson! I love having a compact class size that allows me to have fun and enjoy community while learning and growing in my passion for music. Looking forward to seeing what the rest of the semester brings!”
Kalea Siu
Music – Class of 2029
