A broad-based music competence is necessary to allow the music therapist freedom to focus on treatment related to the special needs of each client. A personal interview with a member of the Music Therapy staff is required of all applicants. This can be done on the same day as the music audition. Applicants must possess good emotional and physical health, as well as an abundance of patience and ingenuity. Students must complete three major fieldwork experiences while taking the music therapy core.
Music therapy offers a viable career option for persons interested in both human services and music.
The jazz studies major experiences a teaching philosophy based on a broad view of jazz styles, world music, computer and electronic music and the avant-garde. Students receive a thorough exposure to the theory and history of music, and progress to specialized training in jazz styles and improvisation. The Hudson Valley and the College have become known as regional centers for live jazz. Renowned artists live and perform in the area and are frequent guests on the New Paltz campus. Jazz studies majors often perform in recital hours and a wide variety of chamber music groups.