About the Department of Music at Whittier College

Breadcrumb

Study music with internationally acclaimed and Grammy Award-winning faculty, participate in a diverse range of solo and ensemble performance opportunities, and engage with guest musical artists from around the world.

Encompassing Music Technology, Western and non-Western music, and comprised of world-class faculty, the Whittier College Music Department offers a broad curriculum open to students who choose to major or minor in music, students who desire an ongoing involvement in music while at Whittier, and students who wish to explore music one course at a time.

Our diverse range of courses includes such offerings as American Popular Music, History of Jazz, Music of Latin America, Music of Africa, Music Business and Music Production. Music students benefit from easy access to practice facilities, one-on-one mentoring and advisement with professors, and international travel programs. Students at all skill levels, regardless of major, can take private instrumental and vocal lessons. The department also has a library of instruments that may be checked out free of charge.

Performance groups

Beginning and advanced students alike have opportunities to perform with a wide range of ensembles. Ensembles include: 

  • College Choir
  • Bella Voce
  • Chamber Singers
  • Opera Workshop
  • Jazz/Blues Ensemble
  • Wind Ensemble
  • String Ensemble
  • Handbell Ensemble
  • Guitar Ensemble

Career preparation

Many of our students pursue graduate studies in music and related fields, and alumni are active throughout the world as professional performers, composers, scholars and teachers. Other students pursue graduate studies and careers in a variety of fields, including medicine, law and business. Music instruction at Whittier is designed to develop skills that include building community, communication, cultural perspectives, and making connections across disciplines so students understand the complex world around them.

Contact

Erin Holmquist-Squires
Administrative Assistant
Peasley Center for Music
562.907.4237
562.464.4592 (fax)