Department of Music

Simpson College is widely recognized for its premier music education.

Whether you’re looking to major in music or want to continue singing and playing while in college, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to hone your talent at Simpson.

We offer three distinct music majors and a minor. Plus, students of all majors engage with our department through general education and elective classes (such as Music Across Cultures) and by lending their talents to various ensembles—including boosting school spirit on game days with our pep and marching bands. 

Our faculty members are respected music scholars, performers, conductors, and composers. Their diverse areas of expertise include opera, silent film scoring, jazz piano, bassoon, and 17th-century music. With small class sizes, you’ll get plenty of personal attention, both in the classroom and during lessons.

Simpson music alumni do remarkable things. They go on to lead organizations like the Des Moines Metro Opera, serve as principals in regional performing arts groups, teach music in K-12 and college settings, and tour internationally as professional musicians.   

Simpson College is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.