What do IBC Worship Studies Majors do after graduation?
Most parents ask, "What can be done for employment with a Bachelor of Worship Studies Degree?" Our music major graduates do not have trouble finding full-time positions in music ministry if that is what they desire. Some have positions waiting for them at their home church when they graduate. If that is not a possibility, with the counsel and full support of the student's pastor, we help place our graduates in music ministry positions. We receive several calls every month from pastors across the country seeking music ministry leadership for their church, and many of these are full-time positions. Some of our music graduates also feel a call to preaching or teaching ministries. We have alumni in serving full-time as Pastors, Youth Pastors, and Christian School teachers and administrators. A growing number of our students are continuing their education into master's programs at accredited colleges. Some of our graduates are working in the music recording industry, in the music publishing industry in Nashville, as recording artists, or with traveling music groups.
What is the difference between the Worship Studies Major and Worship Studies Minor Degree?
The Bachelor of Arts in Worship Studies major with a minor in Biblical Studies is comprised of approximately 64 music hours and 64 Bible and Theology hours. The Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies with a minor in Worship Studies is comprised of approximately 32 music hours and 70 Bible and Theology hours. The Worship Studies minor degree plan also requires the student complete some course work in the Religious Education, Social Science, Ministry, International Studies and Communications & Media departments at IBC. The Worship Studies minor degree is designed for IBC students who feel a call to preach and are gifted musically.
Can I transfer college credit to IBC towards a Worship Studies Major or Minor Degree?
Yes. Any previous college credit with a grade of a C or higher is considered for transfer credit. We try hard to use any previous credit that will fit into the degree plan that you choose at IBC. If you are a Worship Studies Major or Minor some of the classes that usually transfer include Speech, English, Psychology or Sociology, Bible and Music classes. Minors can transfer some business, education, and international type classes. To know exactly what will transfer for one of the music degrees, a personal evaluation will have to be completed by the IBC Dean of Music.
Can I "test out" of any of the introduction level music classes?
We are certainly happy to administer a test to determine if a student is capable of passing the first year music classes. Theory 1-2, Dictation (Ear Training) 1-2, and Sightsinging 1-2 are the classes that the IBC Woship Studies Majors may attempt to pass.
Do I have to be able to read music or play the piano?
These are skills that music majors will learn while at IBC. Obviously, any previous music education or experience will help you. However, our piano lessons are private so that one of our wonderful piano instructors can gear the lesson to your level. These lessons are designed to help the student be able to play by note, read a chord chart, and play by ear. If you are a beginner, you will be expected to work really hard and show progress quickly. All piano students are required to practice a minimum of six hours per week.
What is the audition process for the IBC Chorale?
The IBC chorale is a select group that performs at several community events around Indianapolis and during the two annual chorale tours. Students who want to be a member of IBC Chorale must audition vocally. In addition, returning chorale members must re-audition each year. The candidates should use a soundtrack and select a song that demonstrates the best qualities of their voice. Students who play a musical instrument will also be asked to audition on their instrument. The music faculty judges the vocal performance on a variety of characteristics including tone quality, intonation, breath support and proper diction.
What is the audition process for IBC PRAISE?
The initial step for the IBC PRAISE audition is the Chorale audition. Those who score highest on the chorale audition are called back for PRAISE auditions where specific songs are assigned. Returning IBC PRAISE members in good standing with the academic and financial offices can remain in the group without another audition. IBC PRAISE members who complete a year as a member of the group receive a $500 scholarship for the next fall semester.
Will I have an opportunity for Music Ministry experience my first year at IBC if I don't make Chorale or IBC PRAISE?
YES! The 200-voice IBC Choir is open to all students. No audition required. The IBC Choir sings annually at the Steadfast Conference, and the IBC Music Fest. The choir also sings one Sunday night per month at Calvary Tabernacle and at various community events including events held during REALITY, our intense evangelism week that includes an outreach service on the circle in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Many other performance opportunities are available to IBC Students. Some of these include the IBC Singers, IBC Chapel Services, IBC Accent at Calvary Tabernacle, MSA trips, Freshmen Chapel, Nursing Home Services, the IBC and Calvary Tabernacle Orchestra, the IBC Recording Studio, and other in-house bands such as TIMELESS - the IBC Blue Grass Band, Men's Quartet, Ladies Sextet, and other contemporary Christian bands.
Do you offer any Music Scholarships?
Each year the IBC Music Department awards two half-tuition scholarships for incoming freshmen. To be considered, you must submit a scholarship application by April 15. The scholarships are renewable each semester until graduation. Scholarship students must maintain a 3.0 GPA and are required to work in the IBC Worship Studies Office for three hours each week. To request a scholarship application, please call 317-554-8069 Ext. 322 or e-mail IBCMusicOffice@aol.com.
