Electives

Customize the LSM experience! A variety of electives encourage students to build new musical skills and dive into their unique musical interests. 

Note: some electives which culminate in a final performance are only available to Full Session students.

  • Chapel Choir. This non-auditioned choir rehearses daily and provides music for worship throughout LSM.

  • Church Music. Lutheran hymnody, liturgical history, and worship planning are explored.

  • Class Piano. Curious how to play the piano? Piano beginners, or those who need a brush-up, are encouraged to attend this class!

  • Class Voice. Learn vocal fundamentals and find your voice in this class! Ideal for interested singers who have never sung in a choir or taken lessons before.

  • Composition. Discover your creative voice with the instruction of a professional composer, and premiere your original piece in collaboration with your fellow students. Full Session Only.

  • Conducting. Learn basic conducting patterns and methods for conducting both instrumental and choral ensembles.

  • Handbells*. Learn the elements and techniques of playing in a handbell choir.  The handbell choir regularly serves in worship, the Hymn Festival, and select concerts.

  • Intro to Music Education. Explore education career ideas and basic principles of teaching music. A great experience for potential future music educators!

  • Intro to the Pipe Organ. Learn how the pipe organ works and experience playing this majestic instrument (basic keyboard skills required).

  • Jazz Ensemble*. Jazz theory, techniques, and history come together in this lively auditioned performing ensemble. Full Session Only.

  • Jazz Improv. In this non-auditioned class, instrumental students interested in jazz will learn fundamentals, techniques and improvisational skills.

  • Music Technology. Basics of audio recording and editing. Includes training with digital software, working with microphones, recording practices for different types of music and instruments, and editing techniques.

  • Musical Theatre*. Hands-on experience in Broadway-style of singing and performance. Full Session Only.

  • Music Therapy. The Art and Science of Music Therapy: Discover the stories and science behind the inspiring profession of music therapy. In this class, you will learn what music therapy is, its powerful therapeutic qualities, how to use music for your own stressors, learn therapeutic repertoire, and find out about music therapy as a potential career path.

  • Non-Western Music: Introduction to traditional music and musical instruments from Asia (India, China, Japan, Indonesia) and countries of Africa.

*Onsite audition required