Students pursuing music education at Trinity University complete an academically challenging Bachelor of Music degree. A solid background in the liberal arts and sciences will equip you, as a future teacher, with a breadth of knowledge that will sharpen your understanding of contemporary education.
The music curriculum includes private lessons with outstanding teachers, performing experiences in fine ensembles, and stimulating courses in music theory, music history, and music education. In addition to concerts and tours with the larger performing ensembles, many solo and small performing ensemble opportunities exist for all students studying music at Trinity. Students are also actively involved in observing and teaching in elementary and secondary schools throughout their four-year undergraduate experience.
Trinity’s student chapter of music educators brings to campus speakers, concerts, video teleconferences, and special programs dealing with various aspects of music education. A highlight is the state TMEA conference held in February every year in San Antonio.
Upon completing the Bachelor of Music degree, students begin a summer graduate program, followed by an eight-month internship with accompanying course work. During this innovative fifth year program, carefully identified teachers join University faculty members in providing a supportive, realistic initial teaching experience. Students are then awarded a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and All-Level Teacher Certification in Music. Trinity offers attractive financial aid packages and a career placement network which prides itself on placing 100 percent of the graduates of the Trinity teacher education program. Recent graduates are currently teaching in many diverse settings, are active in leadership roles in the profession, and have presented their ensembles at state conferences.
Music Education Faculty
While all of the music faculty support Trinity University’s commitment to music education, three faculty members are involved in teaching the primary courses in music education. They have had extensive experience in the public school music programs before coming to Trinity University and are active as clinicians and adjudicators for music events in Texas and across the country.
Dr. Diane Persellin teaches courses in music education theory and elementary music education. Her research areas include early childhood music education and music and the brain. She is Past President of Texas Music Educators Conference and active as a workshop clinician and speaker at music education conferences across the country. Before coming to Trinity, Dr. Persellin taught elementary music in the Minneapolis public schools.
Dr. James Worman received his doctorate in music education and conducting from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. As Director of Bands, Dr. Worman conducts the Symphonic Wind Ensemble and teaches conducting, woodwind methods, and instrumental music education courses. Prior to his arrival at Trinity University, Dr. Worman directed high school band programs in Maryland and Virginia.
Dr. Gary Seighman received his doctorate in choral conducting from the University of Maryland. As Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Seighman teaches classes choral conducting and choral methods and directs the Trinity Choir, Chamber Singers, University Women’s Chorus, and the Trinity Choral Union. Dr. Seighman directed high school choirs in New Jersey prior to joining the faculty of Trinity University.
