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Bachelor of Music
Piano Performance & Pedagogy
Perform with excellence. Teach with purpose.
Is This Program for Me?
The Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy is designed for students who want to become both accomplished pianists and effective teachers. This degree combines advanced performance training with hands-on teaching experience to prepare for careers in music education, private instruction and performance.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Want to pursue both piano performance and teaching
- Enjoy working with students and developing others’ musical skills
- Plan to open a private studio or teach in a variety of other settings
- Value mentorship, collaboration and individualized instruction
- Are interested in graduate study in performance or pedagogy
What Will I Learn?
Students develop high-level performance skills alongside practical teaching experience, gaining a well‑rounded understanding of musicianship and pedagogy.
You Will Learn
- Perform advanced piano literature with technical ease and artistic control
- Understand educational and musical needs for students from beginning to advanced levels
- Design lesson plans and instructional strategies
- Evaluate student progress and adapt teaching methods
- Apply music theory and historical analysis to performance and instruction
- Lead studio instruction through supervised teaching practicum
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s piano pedagogy program integrates performance and teaching as complementary skills, preparing students to succeed as both artists and educators.
Equal Focus on Performance and Teaching
Students receive the same rigorous performance training as piano majors while also developing structured teaching skills through pedagogy coursework and hands-on experience.
Real-world Teaching Experience
Through supervised practicums, students teach pre-college learners in real instructional settings, building confidence and professional readiness before graduation.
Personalized Mentorship
Students study with experienced faculty and engage in masterclasses, workshops and seminars that support both artistic growth and pedagogical development.
Performance and Professional Engagement
Students perform in solo, chamber and ensemble settings, and participate in competitions, conferences and professional organizations that build experience and connections. Students have an opportunity to engage with the Music Teachers National Association and the Alabama Music Teachers Association.
Career Preparation
The Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy prepares students for careers that combine teaching and performance.
Prepare to Succeed
Students who complete the pedagogy emphasis are prepared to:
- Teach in private studios or community music programs
- Perform as soloists and collaborative pianists
- Develop and manage a teaching studio
- Continue to graduate study in performance or pedagogy
- Balance artistic excellence with instructional effectiveness
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the piano pedagogy program pursue careers such as:
- Private piano instructor or studio owner
- Collaborative pianist
- Church musician or worship accompanist
- Community arts educator
- Graduate student in piano performance or pedagogy
Performance & Professional Experiences
Students gain extensive experience through recitals, teaching practicums, competitions and ensemble performances. Many teach pre‑college students through the Academy of the Arts or in private settings, while also performing with ensembles across campus and beyond. Many participate in organizations such as Music Teachers National Association and the Alabama Music Teachers Association.
Performance opportunities extend both on and off campus, with ensembles that travel nationally and internationally, preparing students for professional careers.
Application Information
Freshman applications for next fall are open.Freshman Early Action applications close November 1st.The freshman first scholarship deadline is December 1st.Transfer applications for the spring semester close Dec. 15.Freshman FAFSA priority and scholarship deadlines are Feb. 15.Decision day is coming! Freshman applications for fall enrollment close May 1st.Transfer applications for fall enrollment close July 1st.Freshman applications for fall enrollment are closed. Applications for next year open August 1st.Transfer applications for fall enrollment are closed. Applications for next year open September 1st.
