What is the School of Music and Dance at SDSU?

The School of Music and Dance is the music and dance unit of San Diego State University (SDSU), based at music.sdsu.edu. It provides specialized instruction and career development for students, built around what the school describes as a dynamic artistic environment grounded in the strengths and knowledge of its faculty. If you are a prospective student, a current SDSU student looking for an ensemble, or a community member searching for concerts, this page is the school's main entry point.

What the school offers

The school emphasizes three things in its own description: high-quality performance experiences, professional engagement, and applied practical training. Each student's career aspirations are advanced under the supervision of faculty.

By the numbers listed on the site:

Performance opportunities for majors and non-majors

Performing is described as the heart of the school, and opportunities are open to both majors and non-majors. Ensembles include multiple orchestras, concert bands, choirs, jazz ensembles, athletic bands, global music, and chamber music groups.

A key distinction for anyone deciding whether to get involved: the school offers both auditioned and non-auditioned ensembles, so musicians at all levels can find an outlet. Examples given on the site include a clarinetist seeking symphonic experience, a singer interested in choir or opera, and a mariachi violinist. All performance ensembles are guided by experienced faculty.

Dance at SDSU

The dance program follows the same inclusive framing. The school states that dance is for everyone, and lists several ways in:

• Dance auditions
• Dance opportunities for non-majors
• Chances to dance
• Fulfilling a GE requirement
• Attending a show

This matters if you want to keep dancing without committing to a major, or if you are weighing a dance degree.

Ways into the program

The site presents multiple entry points rather than a single admissions path, including a music minor degree, dance degrees, dance auditions, and opportunities for non-majors. Which route fits depends on whether you want a degree, a minor, or participation alongside another major.

Events and tickets

The school maintains a calendar of upcoming performances and concerts, including recitals, concerts, festivals, and artistic performances. Listed examples include Brass Divisionals I and II at 12:00 PM and "We Are The Lucky Ones" at 7:00 PM. Tickets to music and dance events are sold through the site.

When this page is the right starting point

Use music.sdsu.edu if you want to:

• Understand the school's degree and emphasis options before applying
• Find an ensemble as a non-major or major
• Check audition requirements for music or dance
• See what is performing and buy tickets

If you need current tuition, specific audition dates, or faculty contact details, those are not covered in the material summarized here — check the relevant linked pages on the site directly.