Major in Classical Liberal Arts
Mission
The mission of the Patrick Henry College Music program is to develop and exercise the musical gifts and talents of its students in a way that honors the Lord, represents the college with distinction, and prepares and motivates students for life-long musical service.
We believe that every musician is a leader and a teacher. In each of our programs, therefore, we work to develop skills that will enable our musicians to:
- Serve in a variety of musical contexts.
- Make valid musical decisions autonomously.
- Possess communication skills that will direct, encourage, and inspire others in the musical enterprise.
- Shepherd others toward Christ through the integration of artistic excellence and fidelity to the Holy Scriptures
Vision
Our vision for the next five years is two-fold, and involves both people and spaces.
Music Facilities
We plan to fully develop the facilities dedicated to music study in the Barbara Hodel Center. When completed, the music department's facilities will include the following:
- A large rehearsal room
- 4 teaching studios with pianos
- 12 practice rooms
- A teaching classroom with an electronic piano lab
- A music lab with computer stations equipped for music study
People
In five years, we intend to see 30 students enrolled in the Music track of the Classical Liberal Arts major. Further, we plan to have received approval for launching the full-fledged music major.
Music Opportunities:
Classical Liberal Arts Music Track: With the extensive and intensive training of the Classical Liberal Arts major, students in the Music Track will be well equipped to apply their gifts and abilities while receiving additional instruction in music history, music theory, conducting, pedagogy, philosophy, and an applied music area.
J.S. Bach Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship was established in 2009 to enable and encourage the growth of musical leaders in various majors. Open to all qualified students by audition.
PHC Chorale: A mixed-voice ensemble which represents the college at campus events and throughout the region. Christmas and spring concerts, Advent chapels, community presentations, and a European tour have created beloved traditions for the student body, established relations with the greater Northern Virginia community, and produced a live recording in the Church of San Rocco, Venice. Open to all students by audition.
Chamber Orchestra: Our chamber orchestra rehearses and performs pieces in various styles, including historical literature and modern compositions, under the direction of Dr. Scott McCormick. This ensemble often joins the Chorale to perform major works. Open to all students by audition.
Chapel Guild: The Chapel Guild is composed entirely of students who are called to participate as worship leaders. Guild members sequence music and Scripture, leading our campus in thoughtful and intentional corporate worship. The Guild meets weekly with the Director of Music and the College President to discuss the place of music in worship and how the Guild can cultivate hearts for service, stewardship, and encouraging fellow students in the Gospel. Open to all students by audition.
PHC Youth Music Academy: The YMA is a consortium of ensembles, vocal and instrumental. Composed of 8-12th grade students from various educational backgrounds, the ensembles meet for rehearsal once a week on the PHC campus. Entrance by audition.
Besides these venues, Patrick Henry College also offers applied lessons in piano, voice, and strings for academic credit, along with informal musical opportunities.
Faculty
Jennifer Jackson, M.M.
Sherry Doyle, M.M.
