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About the Major
The music major at South prepares students musically, academically and professionally to excel in the areas of instrumental or choral music education or performance as well as music business or music in association with other academic fields.
Jobs in Music
- Music educator
- Professional singer
- Professional orchestra or band musician
- Music producer
- Arts administrator
Related Programs
Music Major Claims Her Place in the Spotlight
When Desirée Whitehead stepped onto a Las Vegas stage in a green sequin gown, she wasn’t just performing. She was claiming her place in the spotlight. As the crowd erupted in applause, she stood stunned: Her classical trio, Symphony of Dreams, had just won the international “Lowe’s Has Talent” competition.
As a student majoring in vocal performance at the University of South Alabama Department of Music, Whitehead never expected her day job at Lowe’s to lead her to an international stage. Still, everything changed after coworkers urged her to audition.
“I’ve always had the urge to sing,” she said. “But I almost gave it all up.”
After arriving at South from Birmingham, she became an education major, dropping her music plans after struggling with theory and confidence.
But the call of music never left. One email to Dr. Thomas Rowell, professor of music and coordinator of vocal studies, changed everything. He cast her in USA Opera Theatre’s “Elixir of Love.” That experience reignited her passion. She switched majors, threw herself into voice lessons and opera roles, and never looked back.
“I grew so much, so fast. I felt supported, challenged and seen.”
“That opera will always have a special place in my heart,” she says. “It reminded me that this was where I belonged.”
As a student, Whitehead found her voice both literally and figuratively. She credits the Department of Music’s welcoming environment and personal mentorship with giving her the confidence to grow. She performed in multiple productions, participated in recitals, and built close friendships with peers who shared her passion.
“I grew so much, so fast. Everything just started clicking,” she said. “I felt supported, challenged and seen.”
That support propelled her into a career in performance. And she’s willing to go anywhere in the world just to share her voice.
“I consider myself a sponge,” she said. “There’s so much good music, good opera and so many places to explore. I want to soak up as much of it as I can.”
Did You Know?
- Students have the opportunity to perform with a professional symphony orchestra and opera company. Twenty-five-plus on-campus ensembles also provide performance opportunities.
- Participation in the Jaguar Marching Band provides excellent experience for future band directors as well as scholarship and leadership opportunities.
- Students who gain admittance to the University can apply to be accepted into the music program, where world-class faculty provide instruction, mentorship and networking.
Contact:
Dr. Laura Moore
Chair
Department of Music
(251) 460-6361
Curriculum and Degree Requirements
- Instrumental Performance concentration
- Instrumental Music Education concentration
- Vocal Performance concentration
- Vocal Music Education concentration
- Elective Studies in Business concentration
- Elective Studies in Specific Outside Fields concentration