Frequently Asked Questions

No, you do not have to be a music major to participate in an ensemble or take applied lessons. Any full-time student undergraduate at Washington and Lee University can participate. There is a $360.00 applied music fee for applied lessons. The applied music fee is waived for students who are a pursuing a major in music and taking applied lessons in their primary instrument/area. Students who are not music majors but wish to take applied lessons, and for whom the applied music fee presents a financial hardship, are encouraged to contact the Department Head or the Administrative Assistant.

No, there are no scholarships specifically in music. However, there is a full range of financial aid available for qualified applicants. Information is available through the Office of Admissions’ page on Financial Aid.

All Department of Music events and performances are automatically recorded and archived. Digital recordings of all performances are available through the department’s archives; please contact the Audio Engineer, John Taylor.

Yes, all applied lessons and ensemble courses are typically for (1) credit and may be repeated for credit. You must be registered for the course to earn credit. These courses also fulfill the experiential learning requirement and are open to first-year students. Applied lessons require instructor consent, which must be obtained through Workday. Some ensembles may also require auditions. For more information, please contact the instructor of the ensemble course you’re interested in.

Yes, the Department of Music has a large inventory of university-owned instruments that are available for student use at no charge. To obtain an instrument, please contact Christopher Dobbins, Director of Instrumental Activities.