The SBU Jazz Band performs at Jazz 'n' Wings night in the university Rathskeller.

St. Bonaventure University

Music Program


The Music major at St. Bonaventure University is a liberal arts degree program, one that allows students to seriously satisfy individual creative inclination while providing the opportunity to increase aesthetic awareness and knowledge of art in general.

Creative aptitude and skills are developed in a methodical manner while relating music's history, trends, and current practices to those of other fields of study.

The Music degree program evenly distributes required courses among the areas of history, theory, and practical experiences. Students have the opportunity to perform in a variety of musical ensembles, enroll in private studio study, and take courses such as composition, conducting, jazz improvisation, and MIDI/Audio production.


Support from 'home' buoys double major


At the end of a demanding day as a double major in Music and Psychology, Julie Curran loves coming home to her SBU family.

Program information


The Music Program offers a B.A. in Music and a minor in Music.


Bachelor of Arts in Music

The major in Music evenly distributes required courses among the areas of history, theory, and practical experiences, with ample opportunities to satisfy individual creative inclinations.

Degree requirements and a four-year plan for the Music major

  • Minor in Music

    For non-majors, the Music minor provides a solid grounding in the fundamentals of music to complement their major fields.

    Requirements for the Music minor


    Sabina at the RathskellerAbove: Music Professor Dr. Les Sabina (center) and The Septet perform at the university's Rathskeller at one of their popular Jazz 'n' Wings events.

    News, Publications & Research
      Feb 27, 2026 | Willis Delony, one of the nation’s foremost classical/jazz crossover artists, will perform Friday, March 13, at St. Bonaventure University’s Quick Center for the Arts.Delony’s performance will feature collaborations with regionally acclaimed jazz artists for an evening of evocative and genre-blending music.

      Feb 05, 2026 | The award-winning Galvin Cello Quartet performs Feb. 20 as part of the Quick Center's 30th anniversary season, with additional masterclasses and community performances.

      Nov 19, 2025 | Dr. Brian Stevens, director of choral activities in the Department of Art, Music and Theater, hosted acclaimed Latvian composer Laura Jēkabsone for a week of rehearsals and workshops with his Western New York-based professional treble chamber choir, Vox Lusciniae, in preparation for their Oct. 4 concert.