Near Interstate 94 and Highway 131, the Western Michigan University School of Music (wmich.edu) offers both undergraduate and graduate-level music coursework in areas such as Elementary Music Education, Music Performance, Composition and even Music Therapy --- areas of concentration also include conducting, jazz studies, voice and instrumental studies. Prospective attendees may also have the opportunity to perform in the college ensemble group which travels to areas such as South America, Europe, Asia and varied locations throughout the United States.
Along West Michigan Avenue and West Main Street, Kalamazoo College Department of Music (reason.kzoo.edu) offers two-year degrees in a variety of music-related coursework in subject areas such as composition, drumming, voice and music theory. The school provides students with the opportunity to learn how to play an array of musical instruments with basic to advanced musical instruction in guitar, horn, violin, and even harpsichord. Students are required to submit a video or DVD performance sample upon applying to the school --- one that demonstrates some technical and creative ability.
Less than a mile from Bronson Park, the Kalamazoo Valley Community College (kvcc.edu) awards two-year degrees to its graduates. With concentrations in subject areas such as musical composition, voice, instrumental improvisation, music theory, and musicianship, the school offers basic and advanced band training, as well. Students may also audition for the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra --- some prerequisites may apply, however. Performance requirements change periodically, so prospective members should inquire with the music department coordinator or staff for details.
Close to both South Park and Westnedge Avenue, the Crecendo Music Academy (crescendoacademy.com) caters to students of all "ages and abilities." With composition and music theory instruction, the school provides additional training with instruments such as the violin, cello, saxophone, piano, and electric guitar. Students may attend private or group lessons either daily or weekly. Some tuition discounts are available for advanced payment. Adults may audition for acceptance into the Kalamazoo Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra, as well.