When you think of Florida the first thing that probably comes to mind are beaches and then perhaps the Gator Bowl, but the state also offers some excellent educational opportunities. Florida colleges have become known for their great football teams, but Naples in particular is the home of two solid music programs and neighbor to a third.
Ave Maria, located in Naples, has a name that suggests that is it the most Catholic of colleges. It has a music program that offers instruction in conducting, music history, theory and the art and science of music. The University offers a major in music which is designed to combine all the competencies needed for a student interested in professional studies in music. A music minor is also offered which provides an opportunity a student to pursue an educational sub-specialty within the liberal arts program.
NSU boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, which results in plenty of personal attention from the professors. They offer a music major that includes four semesters of music theory and instruction. They also focus on sight reading and ear training. Students receive instruction in instruments and voice and have the opportunity to perform regularly though out southern Florida. They also offer a music minor to students wishing to learn more about music but not necessarily becoming a professional performer.
The Bower School of Music makes its home at the Florida Gulf Coast University in neighboring Fort Myers. They offer Bachelor of Arts degrees in both music performance and education. They also have a music minor for students interested expanding their knowledge and enriching their education. An audition is required for both a major and minor in music at Bower. They have recently moved into new quarters that offer expanded facilities for both classes and performance space.