1. A WONDERFUL ENVIRONMENT: The Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State is committed to the principal of “Being the best musician you can be across a spectrum of musical endeavors.” Providing access to opportunity is a core ideology that we strive to give every student so that the only person they are competing against is their former self. This results a refreshingly supportive and thriving musical community rich with the exploration and exchange of new ideas.
2. NUMEROUS PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES: With multiple large ensembles, chamber music groups, opera productions, competitions, concert tours, recording projects and student-led collaborations, App State offers an incredible variety of performance opportunities in which students can pursue the many facets of the musical arts.
3. A PROFESSIONAL IN-HOUSE RECORDING STUDIO: A team of professional audio and video technicians not only teach outstanding courses in music industry and recording techniques, but provide all students access to the highest quality audio and visual recordings of their performances, collaborations and/or album projects.
4. PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE WORK OPPORTUNITIES: There are multiple symphonies in the area (Symphony of the Mountains, Johnson City Symphony, Western Piedmont Symphony, etc…) that hire students from App State. There is also a high demand for musicians for special events since the high country is a destination spot for many people, especially for weddings.
5. HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS & TEACHING OPPORTUNITIES: Cannon Music Camp, in its 56th season, brings in students from across the country for a summer intensive every year. It has been a launching point for many students’ passions to pursue music as a career due to its amazing staff, faculty and supportive nurturing environment. Throughout the school year, App State also offers outreach programs to students of any age in the community. Classes include private lessons in all instruments, group piano classes, choirs, percussion ensembles and guitar & ukulele ensembles. College students have the opportunity to apply to teach through these programs to help gain experience and build their own teaching studios.
6. SCHOLARSHIPS DESIGNATED FOR HARPISTS: App State has two scholarships that are specifically reserved for in-coming harp majors.
