ACADEMICS
Organ Studies
Led by prominent and internationally distinguished faculty members Ladd Thomas and Cherry Rhodes, students of the USC Thornton School of Music Organ Studies program are richly educated in the performance of all periods of music written for this iconic instrument. Alumni of the program have received grants and awards at local, regional, national and international levels. In addition to regularly performing recitals and concerts, both as soloists and in ensemble capacities, graduates of the organ studies program occupy significant university, college and church positions throughout the country.
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor of Music
Organ Performance
4 years | 132 units
The BM in organ performance is a four-year, 132-unit program consisting of course work in the major (individual instruction and functional skills), core music studies (theory, aural skills, music history, conducting, large ensemble) and USC’s general education and writing program. A senior recital is required.
Refer to the USC Catalogue for complete course descriptions and degree requirements here.
Graduate & Doctoral Programs
Master of Music
Organ Performance
2 years | 30 units
The MM in organ performance is a two-year, 30-unit program consisting individual organ instruction, interpretation of baroque music, ensemble, music history and electives. A graduate recital is required.
Refer to the USC Catalogue for complete course descriptions and degree requirements here.
Doctor of Musical Arts
Organ Performance
65 units
The DMA in organ requires a minimum of 65 units beyond the bachelor’s degree and consists of the following areas of study: the basic DMA curriculum, course work in the major, an academic field and two elective fields. Four doctoral recitals are required.
Refer to the USC Catalogue for complete course descriptions and degree requirements here.
Graduate Certificate
Graduate Certificate
Organ Studies
2 years | 16 units
The Graduate Certificate in performance is a two-year, 16-unit program consisting of individual instruction, studio class, and two ensembles, or the equivalent thereof, each semester. This graduate-level program is designed for students who have completed their undergraduate education in music, or its equivalent, and intend to concentrate their energies on the full-time development of their discipline.
Refer to the USC Catalogue for complete course descriptions and degree requirements here.
Minors & Electives
Minor in Musical Studies
18 units
The Musical Studies minor is for students who already have a background in music performance and want to continue to develop their skills. Musical Studies minors have the opportunity to study their instrument in private lessons and participate in ensembles, as well as study music theory and music history. Through the electives, students may explore their own unique musical interests. Students may apply on virtually any instrument, including voice.
Organ Faculty
Spotlights
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