Welcome to the UT Viola Studio!
At the University of Tennessee, violists study in a collaborative, forward-thinking environment that supports both technical mastery and artistic growth. Our program blends tradition and innovation, encouraging students to explore performance, pedagogy, and musicianship through a holistic lens. Whether your goals involve orchestral playing, chamber music, education, or new music, you’ll find opportunities here to develop your unique voice as a violist.
Academics
Whether your goal is a professional career, teaching, or advanced academic study, the UT Viola Studio provides the foundation and mentorship to help you succeed.
Undergraduate Programs
Students in the Viola Studio may pursue either a Bachelor of Music (BM) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music, depending on their career goals and interests.
- The Bachelor of Music (BM) is a professional degree designed for students seeking advanced training in music performance, education, jazz, composition, or theory. Applied lessons are a central part of the degree for most concentrations (such as performance, education, and jazz) and may be optional in others (such as composition and theory).
- The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music is a flexible, interdisciplinary degree that allows students to study music in context with other fields such as media, business, communications, and culture. Applied lesson requirements are dependent on the chosen track.
Students should review the degree requirements carefully to see how applied lessons fit into their intended program of study.
Graduate Programs
Graduate students may pursue a Master of Music in Music Education or Music Performance with viola as their primary area of study.
Graduate Artist Certificate
Designed for highly accomplished performers seeking to refine their artistry, the Graduate Artist Certificate offers advanced study as a stand-alone program.
Meet Professor Hillary Herndon
Violist Hillary Herndon has earned a national reputation for her brilliant playing, “sweetly soaring tone” (Time Out New York), creative programing and insightful teaching. She has been heard on NPR and PBS and has collaborated with some of the world’s foremost artists, including Carol Wincenc, James VanDermark and Itzhak Perlman, who described Hillary as “having it all… a gifted teacher and an excellent musician.”
- 1.5 hours of weekly instruction, including a 30-minute scale and technique lesson
- Regular studio projects such as presentations at the International Viola Congress and American Viola Society Festival
- A supportive and enthusiastic studio culture focused on shared success
- The nationally recognized Annual Viola Celebration, a fall weekend event featuring world-renowned performers and pedagogues, the All-Viola Orchestra, a viola ensemble competition, master classes, and workshops
- Orchestral excerpts courses and professional playing opportunities in regional ensembles
- Guest artist master classes each semester
- Frequent performance outlets: weekly studio class, studio recitals, and community outreach concerts
Performance Opportunities
Viola students at UT perform regularly with large ensembles such as the Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and Contemporary Music Ensemble. Students are also encouraged to take part in chamber groups, studio recitals, and regional orchestra gigs. Events like the Annual Viola Celebration and guest artist master classes further enrich the performance experience and build lasting professional connections.
Interested in the UT Viola Studio?
Schedule a Music Major for a Day Experience or Building Tour!
Get a true sense of what it’s like to be a music major at UT! Sit in on classes, attend rehearsals, meet with Professor Herndon, and tour our beautiful facilities.
Learn How To Apply
Whether you’re applying as a first-time college student, transfer student, or graduate student, admission to the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music is a multi-step process that includes applying to the University of Tennessee and to our college. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Graduate Teaching Assistantships
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music offers a number of graduate teaching assistantships each academic year.
Assistantships carry a waiver of the university tuition, pays for mandatory university fees, medical coverage, and carries a monthly stipend.