September 24, 2024
How long do you think Grand Rapids Community College has had a music program? If you guessed close to 60 years, you would be right!
Albert P. Smith was the first person hired to teach music back in 1946. Since that time, the program has grown from one class to four distinct degreed offerings.
“People don’t know that GRCC confers music degrees,” said Kevin Dobreff, Music Department head and program director. “We have multiple options for people who want to continue on to a four-year program, or for those who want to go straight into the workforce.”
If you’re a musician, you can think of this in terms of optional endings.
The first ending, or in this case, academic path, is an Associate of Music. This is a degree focused on transfer. Students who pursue this degree are often interested in music therapy, music education in the public schools, or music performance. They will complete two years at GRCC and then transfer to the program of their choice to complete a four-year degree.
The second path is the Associate of Music in Recording Technology. This is primarily a school-to-work program that equips students to work in studio recording, the music business, digital editing, live sound or broadcasting.
Our third path is the Digital Audio Specialist Certificate. This program is designed for people who are interested in recording technology. It emphasizes more technology and fewer music classes. Students will learn to apply their technical knowledge and skills to the production of sound recordings as finished products, or as components of film/video, broadcast, live or mixed media productions.
The final path is an Associate of Arts Degree in Music and Entertainment Business. This degree is specifically tailored for transfer to the Ferris State University bachelor’s degree program of the same name. This program requires three years at GRCC and then one year at Ferris. Students who pursue this degree are focused on the business side of music. This might include promotion and music production, sales, marketing and management, public relations or similar careers.
Regardless of the path you choose, you need to know one important fact: GRCC is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Why does that matter? Less than 30 community colleges in the entire country are accredited. And that accreditation is more than just a bureaucratic rubber stamp.
“The accreditation means that our students meet the standards for the first two years of a four-year program,” Dobreff said. “They are ambassadors…they carry the reputation of GRCC when they transfer. So we are focused on making sure they meet the standards.”
Dobreff also says that GRCC is the perfect place for music lovers to hone their skills.
“Four-year music programs are competitive,” Dobreff said. “You don’t get in unless you pass the audition. GRCC offers a wonderful pathway for learning what you need to learn and honing your skills so that you can successfully transfer and pass an audition. Big dreams are not enough in this field: you need guidance to succeed.”
Even if music is not your career goal, you can join one of the GRCC instrumental or vocal ensembles, or take private lessons as an elective.
“The data shows that people who participate in music do better academically,” said Dobreff. “So whether you’re interested in a music major or just want to enjoy music as part of your college experience, please check out the music department.”
Learn more about GRCC’s music programs.
This story was reported by Julie Hordyk.