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Committee backs Western Connecticut State reconfiguration of Bachelor of Music performance
Summary
The ASA committee recommended Western Connecticut State University's restructured Bachelor of Music (performance)—reducing options from four to two, adding a pedagogy requirement and an entrepreneurship component—be forwarded to the full Board of Regents.
The Board of Regents Committee on Academic and Student Affairs recommended approval of Western Connecticut State University's modification to its Bachelor of Music (performance) program, a restructuring intended to broaden the degree’s appeal and reduce program complexity.
Provost Hagedas described the change as consolidating three performance-focused options into a single performance track, leaving the degree with two primary tracks alongside an audio and music production option. Dean Brian Vernon and department chair Dr. Laurel Larson told the committee the move reduces redundant courses, may lower instructional costs and adds a pedagogy component and an arts entrepreneurship course.
"We're going from 4 options down to 2, and it does save money," Dean Brian Vernon said, adding the restructure should make the degree more accessible to students who want a practical career in performance rather than a conservatory emphasis.
Dr. Laurel Larson described a new pedagogy requirement for performance students: "Pretty much every freelance musician teaches. It's just a part of the lifestyle. Right? We all teach private lessons." Larson said the department also added an arts entrepreneurship course to teach marketing and business skills.
Western told the committee it currently has nearly 80 students in the music program and expects the reconfigured degree to stabilize or boost enrollments. The committee moved the modification forward to the full board for final action.
The item passed by voice vote in committee and will appear on the full Board of Regents docket for final approval.
