The Music program has been a vibrant part of the College for over 80 years, starting with a small orchestra and chorus and blossoming to a comprehensive university-level transfer program devoted to inspiring a broad spectrum of artists and ground-breaking community performances. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in musical performance or composition in classical, jazz, popular, and film music.
Teaching excellence and creative collaborations with internationally acclaimed musicians have long established the Music Program as a key artistic contributor to the San Francisco Bay Area music scene. This great tradition is carried on by our performance groups, including the College of Marin Symphony Orchestra, Marin Oratorio, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Contemporary Opera Marin, the College of Marin Brass Band, and the Jazz Ensemble – all of which provide the community with free or low-cost performances both on campus and throughout Marin County.
The Music Program offers a comprehensive program leading to an Associate of Arts degree in music or preparing music students for successful transfer into a university program as a junior. In addition to the music major curriculum, many courses are appropriate for those wishing to rekindle their musical abilities and interests, increase instrumental or vocal competency, or perform with a large or small ensemble. Our courses and performing ensembles are open to talented high school students interested in further building their skills while establishing a college GPA and earning arts elective credits.