Music Without Barriers

The text "Music Without Barriers" is imposed on a red background with a decorative music notes and a staff. The school of music logo is on the bottom.

Music Without Barriers is a FREE program designed to provide high school aged students with the information needed to pursue an education for a career in music.  

In this once monthly program, University of Minnesota School of Music Faculty and guest presenters will cover a variety of topics crucial to taking that first step towards your career in music. In addition to the topic presentations below, students will participate in masterclasses and mentorship meetings with our world-class University of Minnesota School of Music faculty.  A career and education in music requires planning, preparation and knowledge. If you are ready to learn what it takes to succeed in music, this program is for you! 

Registration is REQUIRED, find the form link here

Sessions

November 11 
Creating a Career in Music:  In this class you will learn about the exciting career possibilities in music. Come discover the different degree possibilities designed to prepare you for your dream job!  

December 9
Audition Crushing 101: Most music degrees require an audition.  The preparation and planning required to give a great audition can be daunting.  Join us to learn how to plan and prepare for this important step. 

January 13
Present like a PRO!:  Come and learn how to put your best foot forward to maximize your potential for crushing your college audition and application!  You will learn how to create quality recordings, present yourself online and interact with university faculty and administration.

February 10
Music at UMN: In this session participants will receive a tour of the University of Minnesota Facilities, attend a faculty performance and participate in a Q&A with the faculty and students of the School of Music. 

March 9
Music Students Toolkit: Majoring in Music can often look different than other areas of study. In this presentation we will discuss effective tools for practicing, ways to obtain equipment you may need and other vital information for music majors.  

April 13
Funding your Education: Finding ways to pay for college can sometimes be an overwhelming challenge. In this session we will discuss various funding opportunities from scholarships, grants, and awards. This class will include a Q&A with our School of Music undergraduate.  Parents are welcome to attend!!  

May 11
Music Entrepreneurship: Once you decide to make music a career you will need tools on how to be successful and thrive in the arts. With special guest Steve Cole we will begin discussing how to find your musical voice and build your dream career.

All sessions will be held at Lloyd Ultan Recital Hall in Ferguson Hall at:

The University of Minnesota School of Music (Map)
100 Ferguson Hall
2106 4th St S 
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Sample Schedule  (10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Second Saturday of each month beginning in November)

10:00 AM -12:00 PM Guest lecture with breakout room discussion.

12:00 PM -1:00 PM Lunch 

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Lessons and Coachings with UMN Faculty 

This program is free to all registered students!

Lunches provided by Schmitt Music. 

Students would need to provide and transport their own instruments. Free parking available for all students attending. We can provide metro transit cards for those in need. Please email Preston Duncan at least two weeks prior to the event to request support.  

Parking information

Schmitt Music