Hollins music program takes many forms: performing, composing, learning a new instrument, joining an ensemble, or making new discoveries in the classroom. Some music majors concentrate in a performance area, which leads to a senior recital. Other students pursue study in an area such as theory, composition, or music history, which culminates in a senior thesis, lecture/recital, or other creative project.
Tracks
Music Major
Music program students may concentrate in a performance area, either instrumental or vocal, leading to a senior recital. Other students may choose to study in an area such as theory, composition, or music history. Their work culminates with a senior thesis, lecture/recital, or other creative project.
Music Minor
Students whose career interests lie in another field, but who wish to study music seriously, may pursue a music minor.
Certificate Programs Available
A Certificate in Piano Teaching is available to enrolled students as well as members of the community. It offers specialized study and practical work in piano pedagogy.
A Certificate in Arts Management is available to music degree candidates (music majors or minors).
The Musical Theatre Performance Certificate offers a toolbox for the student who knows musical theatre will somehow be part of her future.
Exceptional Facilities
Extensive renovations have transformed historic Presser Hall into a professional music facility, as well as an inviting space to study and relax. Hollins was recently named one of just a few “All-Steinway Schools” in Virginia.
The Rath Library and Listening Center contains over 15,000 discs, scores, and books for reference and study. Talmadge Recital Hall is widely known for its admirable acoustics and is ideal for performances of piano, vocal, and chamber music.
Join an Ensemble
The music department’s ensembles allow students to further their knowledge of and expertise in music. They also provide an entrée into a community of like-minded peers, who are endeavoring to create something of beauty and value in a group setting. Besides, it’s just plain fun to enjoy some friendly social time while making music together. Ensembles are open to students of all majors and include:
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Hollins University Concert Choir
A introductory treble-voice chorale of students from across campus that performs music from a wide variety of styles and genres. This ensemble focuses on healthy vocal technique and the development of comprehensive choral musicianship through the performance experience. This ensemble performs regularly throughout the year. Open to students in all majors and departments, with no audition.
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Hollins University Talmadge Singers
An elite small ensemble, singing advanced repertoire from a variety of musical styles and genres. Open to students from all majors and departments, by audition. Intended for singers with significant vocal/choral experience, this ensemble will focus primarily on repertoire and performance – performing regularly on campus throughout the year, as well as on and off campus for university functions, run-out concerts, and community outreach events. Auditions are held are the beginning of each semester.
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Hollins University World Music Ensemble
The Hollins steel pan group, Pan Divas!, and the African Mallet Ensemble combine to perform an eclectic mix of music from around the world. Open to all students; no audition required.
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Hollins University Mariachi Ensemble
The Hollins Mariachi Ensemble performs the rich music of Mexico. Students with ability to play guitar, violin, and trumpet, as well as singers are invited to participate. The ensemble gives at least one public performance each semester.
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Hollins University Mountain Laurels
The Mountain Laurels perform traditional Appalachian music on such instruments as fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar, or bass. The ensemble meets once a week and explores the interests of its members in the genres of mountain music and bluegrass.
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Valley Chamber Orchestra
A resident ensemble consisting of Hollins students and Roanoke Valley community members. Students may elect to participate in the orchestra for credit or as an extracurricular activity. The orchestra rehearses once a week in the evening and is a popular ensemble for instrumental studies students. Open to all students by audition.
The Hollins Academy of Music
Individual lessons to students of all ages and skills
The goal of the Hollins Academy of Music is to provide our students with a strong musical education in a community atmosphere. We have a beautiful campus setting and several piano studios equipped with two pianos per studio.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Student recitals in Talmadge Hall
- Presser Hall practice rooms
- Opportunities to perform in master classes and group lessons
- Community and out-of-town musical contacts
- Performances in area and state auditions for qualified students
- College placement advising
- Periodic progress and repertoire reports
Admission
Auditions
For purposes of placement and scheduling, we need prospective students to submit a registration form.
Intermediate and advanced students should list recently learned pieces and previous music studies.
To audition, complete the registration form and send it to:
Kerry Morgiewicz
Hollins Academy of Music Coordinator
Email: kmorgiewicz@hollins.edu
Fax: 540-362-6512
U.S. Mail: Hollins University
Department of Music
Box 9643
7916 Williamson Road
Roanoke, VA 24020
Due to scheduling and teacher load, sometimes immediate placement isn’t always possible. We keep a waiting list on file, and notify prospective students on the list once openings occur.
Fees
Enrollment is by semester only, and tuition for each semester is due in full at the beginning of the term.
2023-24 Schedule of Fees (14-week term)
- 30-minute lesson: $325.00
- 45-minute lesson: $485.00
- 60-minute lesson: $650.00
The Hollins University Business Office processes billing, and answers all questions about billing or payment. Tuition is not prorated for students starting late. There are no refunds of any part for early withdrawal during the term.
Make checks payable to Hollins University and mail to the Cashier’s Office:
Cashier, Business Office
Hollins University
Box 9658
7916 Williamson Road
Roanoke, VA 24020
LESSONS
Parents are welcome to arrange studio visits during lessons.
Private lessons are taught during 14-week fall and spring semesters. Some teachers may substitute a group class for private lessons before preparatory recitals.
- Private lessons may be one hour, 45 minutes, or 30 minutes in length. The teacher determines the appropriate length.
- Schedules and start dates for lessons for individual teachers may vary slightly.
- The teacher reserves places for the following semester for students making satisfactory progress.
- If for any reason you expect to stop lessons, notify the teacher as early as possible.
Absences
Let your teacher know if you’re unable to attend a lesson. While our teachers will make up any appointment they are unable to meet, it is not always possible to reschedule lessons missed by the student.
Frequent cancellation of lessons by the student can lead to the termination of study at the end of the semester.
Program Faculty
