About Us

The mission of the Conservatory of Music at Chapman University is to provide an outstanding education for the professional and intellectual development of artists and scholars in a supportive, rigorous liberal arts environment that enriches the human mind and spirit.

The Conservatory of Music offers the Bachelor of Arts in music and pre-professional programs leading to the Bachelor of Music in composition, music education, and performance (conducting, instrumental, keyboard collaborative arts and vocal).

Chapman University first offered the Bachelor of Music degree in 1930-31, and has striven to present thorough music curricula, blended with liberal learning ever since. The university’s music facilities compare with institutions far larger in size and offer a fine setting for both instruction and musical presentations. The Conservatory of Music is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

The National Association of Schools of Music was founded in 1924 for the purpose of securing a better understanding among institutions of higher education engaged in work in music; of establishing a more uniform method of granting credit; and of developing and maintaining basic, threshold standards for the granting of degrees and other credentials.  NASM is an association of approximately 615 schools of music, primarily at the collegiate level, but also including postsecondary non-degree-granting schools of music. It is the national accrediting agency for music and music-related disciplines. The Association also provides information to the public. It produces statistical research, provides professional development for leaders of music schools, and engages in policy analysis. Information: http://nasm.arts-accredit.org/index.jsp.