Department Of Music

Valley City Normal School hired its first music teacher in 1892. In 1900 two instructors were hired: one of these was Fannie C. Amidon. Amidon proposed to the president of the Normal School that a department of public school music be organized, offering teachers a special certificate in music. Permission was given and thus was established the first music education department west of Detroit, Michigan. Other early accomplishments of the department include the establishment of North Dakota's first instrumental music program and the formation of the North Dakota Music Education Association. In Fall, 1963 the Department of Music moved into the newly constructed Foss Music classroom building. Foss Hall, on the bank of the Sheyenne River, was the first independent music building in North Dakota. In 1997 the Department became accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).

The goals of the Department of Music are to: (1) provide superior training for future public school music teachers; (2) assist musicians to perform at their highest possible level of ability; (3) develop in students a broad understanding of music within the cntext of a liberal arts education; and (4) contriubte to the cultural environment of campus and community.

Many kinds of scholarships are available to students in the Department of Music. Over 50% of music students receive scholarships.

The Valley City State University Department of Music accepts online donations to the Friends of Music Scholarship fund at any time. Support from Friends is very important to music students, with over 80% of current full-time students receiving scholarships. Thank you!