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Audition Dates
Interested in auditioning for UM-Flint’s Music program? See below for the 2025-26 dates.
- Thursday, August 6, 2026
Audition appointments begin at 4 p.m.; you will receive your specific appointment time upon registration.
To register for an audition, please email musicumflint@umich.edu.
Accreditation
UM-Flint is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music, 11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21, Reston, VA. 20190-5248.
Make Music at the University of Michigan-Flint
As part of the regional comprehensive University of Michigan-Flint, the Department of Music offers students a personalized University of Michigan experience. For nearly 40 years, the experienced faculty has created an environment that develops the very best of student talent and creativity. Students who graduate from music programs at UM-Flint go on to outstanding careers and experiences as performers, teachers, and artistic visionaries. At UM-Flint, you will make music as you make a foundation for your future.
UM-Flint is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music and the Department of Music is recognized for its performances, creative and collaborative students and faculty, and intellectually rigorous programs of study. Programs are open to music majors and minors who wish to pursue undergraduate music degrees and non-majors who want to participate in various performing ensembles offered by the Department of Music.
Recent Music Program News & Events
The Music program produces several concerts open to the public each year. Here are recent highlights.
Then. Now. Wow.
What do 18th-century composer Luigi Boccherini and contemporary percussionist Ivan Trevino have in common? Their work shared the stage at UM-Flint’s annual MusiCollage, March 26, at the FIM Whiting Auditorium.
An Evening of Three Worlds: Spring 2026 Chamber Music Recital
On April 2, UM-Flint hosted a special Chamber Music Recital, showcasing its Woodwind, Percussion, and Steel Drum ensembles.
Featured Faculty
Doug Burtch
Assistant Professor of Music
Doug Burtch is also UM-Flint’s Band Director and the Coordinator for the Music Education Program.
“We have some of the brightest and best students; they have a tremendous work ethic and goals. They keep me young! I feel like they teach me as much as I teach them, and I look forward to walking in each day and working with them.”
All Music Program News
On Page
Faculty Spotlight
UM-Flint’s Hristova receives 2025 Maynard Klein Award from the American Choral Directors Association
In recognition of her artistic excellence and a lifetime of leadership in the field of choral music, Gabriela Hristova, associate professor of music at the University of Michigan-Flint, received the 2025 Maynard Klein Award from the Michigan chapter of the American Choral Directors Association.
Hristova received the award during the association’s state conference at Alma College, Oct. 17.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Music
Bachelor of Arts in Music
The Bachelor of Arts degree emphasizes the study of music in combination with selected fields outside of music. Students participate in studies as music majors in conjunction with other disciplines within the College of Arts, Sciences & Education.
Bachelor of Music Education
The Bachelor of Music Education is designed to meet the needs of future K-12 music teachers. Completing the program requirements and passing the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification leads to certification to teach music in K-12 schools in Michigan.
Bachelor of Music
The Bachelor of Music degree prepares students for future careers as performers and studio instructors. Students prepare solo recitals, participate in chamber and large ensembles, and study pedagogy related to the major instrument or voice. This program’s high quality and rigor enable students to compete nationally as performers auditioning for professional groups and as continuing students in graduate schools.
Michael Abbasspour
Music 2018
Michael Abbasspour has gone on to do great things and serve the community as the new Music Director of El Ballet Folklórico Estudiantil.
“I am honored to be named the Music Director at El Ballet Folklórico Estudiantil! Our mission is to provide the community with a space that celebrates and preserves Mexican culture through the arts. With this position, I will strive to continue our mission to further empower our youth and community”.
Minors in Music
The University of Michigan-Flint offers a dynamic and enriching music minor program that complements a wide range of majors. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of music theory, history, and performance. It allows students to explore their passion for music through various courses and ensemble opportunities. With access to experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, students can hone their skills whether in vocal or instrumental performance. The music minor fosters both creative and critical thinking, preparing students for diverse careers in music and enhancing their overall educational experience.
Performing Opportunities
The University of Michigan-Flint’s active schedule of concerts and recitals contributes to the educational and cultural offerings of UM-Flint and the greater Flint community. Students have the opportunity to perform as soloists as well as in a variety of ensembles.
Opportunities for Future Students
Chamber Choir Invitational
This annual event brings together UM-Flint’s Chamber Singers with local high school choirs for a day of learning, practice, and performance.
High School Honor Band
UM-Flint Music’s annual High School Honor Band weekend brings talented student musicians from around the area to our campus for two days of making music, taking master classes, and collaborating together to perform for the public on Sunday afternoon.
Keep Music in Your Future
Join us for a day in the life of a university music student, including sitting in on ensemble and theory courses, learning more about the Music program, and exploring the UM-Flint campus.
Instrumental & Vocal Workshop
High School students from around the area join us to participate in instrument-specific workshops, enjoy performances from current music program students, and experience life on the UM-Flint campus.
Summer Vocal Academy of Music
Each year, 5th through 12th grade students from the local area participate in this two-week long summer day camp featuring a variety of music classes and creative activities, all culminating in a public performance.
Scholarships
The Music Department has awarded more than $75,000 in scholarships during the past three years. Scholarships are awarded during department auditions, and each semester, they are awarded by separate applications submitted to the department. Find out the specific music scholarships that can be awarded.
Free Tuition with the Go Blue Guarantee!
Upon admission, we automatically consider UM-Flint students for the Go Blue Guarantee, a historic program offering free tuition for high-achieving, in-state undergraduates from lower-income households.
Academic Advising for Music Students
The music faculty advises all current and potential music students to ensure students are enrolled in the proper courses for their instrument of study and degree program. Please contact the music faculty by emailing musicumflint@umich.edu for advising information or questions about any music program.
In addition to Music faculty advising for specific programs, Therasa Martin is the UM-Flint academic advisor dedicated to Music majors. Academic advisors can help you choose general education classes, navigate personal student life issues, find internships and other experiential learning opportunities, explore career and graduate school options, and otherwise help guide your journey here at the University of Michigan-Flint. Email Therasa at tsimpson@umich.edu or schedule an advising appointment.
Get Started on Your Music Career Today
If you want to develop your artistic skills and vision – or to help others develop their own as a teacher, apply to the University of Michigan-Flint today. If you have questions, you can contact our dedicated academic advisors.