Keyboard Studies Program

The Keyboard Studies Track has degree programs focusing on piano and organ. The program is committed to excellence and is dedicated to the journey each student takes in becoming a musician. Students study with renowned faculty and have opportunities to accompany and play chamber music. 

B.A. in Music on the Keyboard Track

Students pursuing a B.A. in Music on the Keyboard Track will participate in the following courses:

Private Lessons in piano and organ allow students to work one-on-one with an instructor on a weekly basis and perform twice throughout the semester.

Studio Classes provide students the opportunity to practice performing in front of their peers.

Keyboard Literature studies piano literature from the Baroque to the 21st Century in a historical context.

Piano Pedagogy lets students get acquainted with techniques of teaching and become familiar with piano literature from beginning to intermediate levels.

Accompanying and Chamber Music teaches students techniques needed to collaborate with other musicians and ensembles.

View a sample course schedule 

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

Music majors are required to perform throughout the semester for juries, concerts, and monthly recitals as a soloist and with University ensembles. Additional performances may include department wide productions and off campus performances for students who meet the audition standards.

"We really go the extra mile to make sure students have what they need to be successful in our rigorous yet personalized degree program."

- Dr. Stephanie Bruning, Coordinator of Keyboard Studies

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Pursuing a degree in music can be challenging but very rewarding. To help prospective undergraduate students prepare for college we encourage you to heed the following tips.

1. Play with Others
   Studying music in college will require ensemble performances. Music by nature is a collaborative art form. Join your school ensemble or find a youth music program in your community. If neither is available, try practicing duet and trio pieces with friends.

2. Take Music Lessons
   Music performance in university settings is more competitive and rigourous. Give yourself a head start by taking music lessons with a qualified professional music instructor. If you are unable to identify someone in your community contact a local college or university to request lessons with a music major.

3. Learn Music Theory
   Music theory is the study of the practices and possibilities of music making. It is an evolving life long study. Register for a music theory class if your high school offers one.  Purchase a beginner theory book if you are unable to take a class at your school or find a beginner music theory course at a local community college.

4. Develop your Ear
   Expand your awareness of music genres, instrumentation, and sound. Listen to other genres beyond your favorites. Practice trying to mimic and harmonize the melodies of your favorite songs on your instrument.

5. Discover Music Technology
   There are several ways to compose and produce music in this age of technology. Become more aware of the different music making programs such as Finale, Smart Music, and Sibelius. Some programs offer free trials and discounts for students. Begin exploring music technology.

6. Invest in Your Craft
   Be prepared to invest time and money for equipment in your study of music. You will be required to pay for your own music, instruments, accessories, and etc. as a music major. While other majors may spend hours in the library studying from a book, student musicians will spend hours studying theory while practicing their instrument.

AUDITION (Undergraduate & Graduate)

REQUIREMENTS

Students must have applied to the University before you can schedule an audition.

Students should prepare the following:

1. Two contrasting solo works
2. All major and minor scales in two, three, or four octaves

• Audition Example #1
  • J.S. Bach's Invention No. 4 in D minor (WTC Book I)
  • Chopin's Waltz in B minor, Op. 69, No. 2
  • Scales in three octaves in C Major and C harmonic minor
• Audition Example #2
  • Beethoven's Sonata Op. 27, No. 2 "Moonlight" (1st movement)
  • Gospel or jazz improvisation
  • Scales in four octaves in G Major and G harmonic minor

*If you would like to confirm that you have the appropriate repertoire, please contact Dr. Stephanie Bruning at 443.885.3570 or by email at Stephanie.Bruning@morgan.edu

AUDITION DATES

Spring 2024 Audition Dates TBA

Please schedule an in-person audition.  Alternatively, recordings may be accepted.

Recording Requirements

Videos accepted via YouTube link, MP4 or MOV formats submitted to Dr. Stephanie Bruning at Stephanie.Bruning@morgan.edu no later than April 1st.

• The recordings should be unaltered.
•  Announce the title and composer before each piece.
• Please note that a virtual interview may be required for students seeking financial support.

NOTABLE ALUMNI

Marcus Smith
MSU C/O 2006
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Piano Performance

"I was inspired to attend Morgan from my high school choral teacher, Lady Linda Hall. My Morgan experience was simply rich. I had the opportunity to study with world class performers and teachers such as Dr. Nathan Carter and Professor Robert Jordan. I am grateful for that experience. I will cherish it for the rest of my life. Fair Morgan!"

Additional Degrees:

• Master of Science Degree in Music Education - 2011

Organizational Affiliations:

• Honorary Member of Choir Psi Phi National Music Society

Current Position(s):

• Choral Director at Baltimore City College
• Adjunct Professor at Peabody Conservatory, Baltimore MD
• Professor at The Carter School of Music
• Minister of Music at the Ark Church in Baltimore, MD

Career Achievements:

• Traveled Shanghai, China to teach at Fudan University 2019
• Guest Pianist for the Ithaca College Gospel Invitational, Czech Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra