The music program of study at Sheridan College is designed to provide basic core courses which will enable students to adequately prepare for advanced work in either applied music (performance), music education or music theater. Portions of the program are approved for teacher recertification and it has been used by elementary education majors needing background and training in music. Students in other disciplines enroll in general music courses to fulfill humanities requirements and for personal enrichment.
Students electing to major in music are expected to become proficient in written and aural theory; acquire a historical perspective of music; acquire instrumental or vocal performance skills; and to develop a professional approach to ensemble rehearsal techniques and performance. Music majors must participate in at least one ensemble during each semester, subject to audition when required.
Upon completion of the program, students can choose to transfer to a four-year institution, or to pursue a career in music. Musicians work in a number of fields including, recording, composition and performance. Some musicians have steady, salaried positions within large orchestras, high schools and colleges.
Other musicians choose to work as freelance musicians, taking jobs with different bands or ensembles as they please. Freelance musicians earn money by performing solo, in orchestras, through studio recordings and teaching private lessons. Others make money by composing original songs for popular artists, and every time the song is played on the radio, the freelance musician earns more money in the form of royalties.
Student Success
Sheridan College is commited to student success.
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Adam Cruz
2003 Sheridan College Music Graduate
Adam pursued his music passions and graduated with an A.S. degree, having emphasized in music. He now works as the Creative Director for Element Church in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
"Sheridan College prepared me for my future in music. I love what I do!" - Adam Cruz
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Distinguished Professional Faculty
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Dr. David Knutson
Director of Bands
My Biography |
Dr. Christian Erickson
Part-time Music Instructor
My Biography |
Gene Sager
Instructor of Voice and
Director of Choral Music
My Biography |
Lillian Graff -Sager
Co-Director of the
No Frills Theater Company
My Biography |
SC Performance Groups:
- Jazz Band - Jazz band is an ensemble usually numbering from 14 to 18 members and performs music in mostly jazz genres. The group usually performs 2 concerts per semester and also may perform at other functions such as dances as the opportunities occur.
- Concert Band - The concert band numbers from 35-50 members and performs symphonic band literature, including many of the standard major works for band, at 2 concerts per semester.
- Community Chorus - This large chorus meets one evening per week to rehearse works in a variety of choral music forms. The Chorus performs at least one concert each semester.
- General Delivery - The singers meet daily to rehearse work of sufficient difficulty to challenge the vocal music major. A variety of forms are included in the repertoire, from madrigals to modern jazz. The ensemble tours each spring and averages 10-20 performances a year. Students must audition for this group.
- Basketball Pep Band - The Basketball pep band numbers from 10-20 players and performs at all of the regular season home men’s and women’s basketball games.
Venue #1: The Historic WYO Theater
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The WYO was originally built in 1923 as the Lotus, a vaudeville theater. The theater entertained Sheridan families for nearly 60 years with both live performances and films before closing its doors in 1982. Its future seemed uncertain, the theater possibly destined to become just another main street memory.
Faced with the loss of this venerable landmark the citizens of Sheridan came together to rescue the building. Community leadership coupled with the generous gifts of time and money by individuals, businesses, and private foundations not only saved the theater, but renovated it to become an architectural centerpiece and important performing arts facility for downtown Sheridan.
Since reopening in 1989 as a road house, the WYO has brought countless hours of live entertainment, cultural enrichment, and educational opportunities to the greater Sheridan community.
Sheridan College frequently uses the WYO Theater for music and theater performances.
Venue #2: The Carriage House Theatre
The Carriage House Theatre is located on the grounds of the Trail End State Historic Site - Wyoming's premier historic house museum. The Carriage House is primarily used by the Sheridan Civic Theater Guild.
Located in a residential neighborhood on the grounds of a major state historic site, the Carriage House Theatre offers an intimate space for viewing the finest in local theater. With only eighty-seven seats to choose from, every seat is the best seat in the house!
Sheridan College frequently uses the Carriage House Theatre as a venue for theatrical performances.
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