Lionel Hampton School of Music
Advancing the art of music
At University of Idaho’s Lionel Hampton School of Music (LHSOM), you’ll join a student-centered program dedicated to excellence in music education, performance, composition and innovation. Named in honor of legendary jazz artist Lionel Hampton, the school blends tradition with forward-thinking instruction, preparing students to thrive as artists, educators and professionals in today’s diverse music industry.
Whether you aspire to teach music in schools, perform on stage, compose original works or work in music-related industries, LHSOM offers mentorship, resources and performance opportunities to launch your musical career. As one of the most active schools on campus, we present an extensive calendar of concerts, festivals and recitals each year — including the world-renowned Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival.
University of Idaho is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Academic programs
Whether you’re pursuing a career as a performer, teacher, composer or music industry professional, the Lionel Hampton School of Music offers accredited degree paths designed to develop your artistic skills, musical knowledge and career readiness. Our programs emphasize applied learning, studio instruction and broad exposure to music theory, history and performance.
Undergraduate degrees
- B.A. in applied music
- B.S. in applied music
- B.Mus. in music education
- B.Mus. in music composition
- B.Mus. in music performance
Graduate degrees
- M.Mus. in music
- Concentration option in music education, performance, composition, piano pedagogy and performance studies, or collaborative piano.
Minors
Upcoming events
Explore our degrees
See which area of study fits your interests.
Audition with us
Join us January 31 on-campus or schedule a virtual audition.
Admission requirements
Admission to the Lionel Hampton School of Music (LHSOM) requires an application to the U of I and an audition for the LHSOM. We welcome passionate musicians from all backgrounds who are eager to grow artistically and academically in a supportive environment.
Have questions about auditioning? Contact us at music@uidaho.edu for more information.
Undergraduate admission process
- Apply to University of Idaho
- Complete the LHSOM application
Schedule and complete an audition
All applicants must audition on their primary instrument or voice. Auditions can be completed in person, via video call or by submitting a recorded audition. Priority scholarship consideration is given to those who audition by Feb. 21, 2026 and have a 3.0 GPA.
Audition day
Our in-person audition day on Jan. 31, 2026, is the best way to learn about your school and meet your future faculty and colleagues.
Activities include:- Meeting one-on-one with professors and students who share your interests.
- Hearing U of I faculty and students perform.
- Attending a panel discussion with current students who will answer questions about what it is like to be a music student at LHSOM.
- Auditioning for admission and scholarships.
- Touring our beautiful campus.
- Discussing financial aid, scholarships and admission with experts.
You may complete an application to the LHSOM at any point during the year. To receive priority consideration for scholarships, audition by Feb. 21, 2026.
View Audition Day 2026 Schedule
Primary instruments
Students may audition on one of the following:
- Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba
- Woodwinds: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone
- Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass (String Bass), Guitar
- Keyboard: Piano
- Voice
- Percussion: Concert Percussion, Drum set
Piano Placement Exam
The Piano Placement Exam is for students seeking to place out of some, but not all required piano courses.
The Challenge by Exam Form is necessary only when testing out of all four semesters for majors and two semesters for minors. This form must be filled out prior to taking the challenge exam. No exam may be conducted during the last two weeks of any academic session.
Theory and Aural Skills Diagnostic Exam
The goal of this exam is to advise transfer students regarding deficiencies in their prior theory training. The exam is given during the first week of classes each semester, as needed.
Exam resources
Transfer students
LHSOM will provide you with a transfer advisor to help ease the transition from your previous institution and typically accepts music credits from NASM-accredited institutions.
Graduate admission process
- Apply to University of Idaho Graduate Admissions
- Complete the LHSOM application
You will also need to complete the Supplementary Information Form and the Graduate Assistantship Form and send them to the Graduate Admissions Office. Schedule your audition
Review the Master of Music concentration requirements before scheduling your audition.
Have questions? Contact Javier Rodriguez for more information.
Master of Music concentration requirements
- Piano performance: One Baroque piece, plus two contrasting works from different stylistic periods (Classical, Romantic, Impressionist, 20th/21st century). Memorization required.
- Piano pedagogy and performance: Three contrasting pieces from different stylistic periods (Classical, Romantic, Impressionist, 20th/21st century). Memorization required.
- Collaborative piano: Sight-reading: Score will be presented at the audition, one solo work or sonata movement (memorized), one collaborative instrumental piece or sonata movement, and two art songs representing two different languages.
- Choral conducting: Audition (in person or recorded performance), and submission of repertoire lists (solo, accompaniments, chamber music).
- Composition: Portfolio of representative compositions.
Graduate teaching assistantships
Assistantships include a stipend and tuition waiver. Priority consideration: February 1. Award notifications typically begin March 1. To be eligible for a teaching assistantship, you must be enrolled as a full-time graduate student (9 credits).
Students awarded assistantships are required to take the TA training course through the College of Graduate Studies before assuming teaching responsibilities. This course is offered the week prior to each semester.
Diagnostic placement exams
All incoming graduate students are required to take two diagnostic exams prior to enrolling in advanced (500-level) courses in the subject areas covered by the placement examinations. These exams are designed to assess foundational knowledge, ensure readiness for advanced study and help faculty advisors determine if any remedial coursework is needed to strengthen areas of deficiency.
Exam timing: Exams are typically administered on the Saturday before the start of the fall semester. Students must arrive on campus in time to complete the exams.
Required exams
- Music history and literature
- Aural skills/ear training
Exam resources
International students
You are required to have a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 575 (PBT) if English is not your native language or if your undergraduate education was not in English. You must submit an official TOEFL report to the College of Graduate Studies (COGS) prior to admission to the music graduate program.
Transfer students
LHSOM provides advising support to help transfer students navigate their transition from another institution. We typically accept graduate-level music credits from NASM-accredited institutions, with a maximum of nine credit hours eligible for transfer. All transfer students are required to complete the diagnostic placement exams.
Auditions
Once you have submitted your U of I and LHSOM applications, you will choose one of the following audition formats:
- Attend Audition Day (recommended): Held on Jan. 31, 2026, this in-person event allows you to:
- Meet LHSOM faculty and students
- Attend live performances and Q&A panels
- Audition for admission and scholarships
- Tour campus and speak with financial aid experts
- Schedule a private Zoom audition – Speak directly with faculty and receive real-time feedback.
- Submit a video audition – If you are unable to attend a live audition, upload a video via YouTube and email it to music@uidaho.edu. A faculty member will follow up with you.
Note: If auditioning on more than one instrument, submit a separate audition for each.
Accompaniment
- Instrumentalists: Auditions are typically unaccompanied.
- Vocalists: May bring their own accompanist or a pianist will be provided to sight-read the accompaniment. Please bring the original music or a double-sided, three-hole punched copy in a three-ring binder. CD or a cappella accompaniment is discouraged.
Request more information
Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll connect you with the information you need to start your journey.
Launch your musical career
Our graduates pursue careers as performers, educators, composers and arts professionals. Whether you’re preparing for graduate study or seeking industry opportunities, LHSOM offers the foundation and connections to support your goals.
Career paths include:
- K-12 music education
- University teaching
- Professional performance
- Arts administration
- Music production and technology
Ensembles
Interested in joining an ensemble? Whether you’re pursuing a music degree or simply love to perform, the Lionel Hampton School of Music welcomes all U of I students to be part of our ensemble community. From jazz and classical to choral and opera, there’s a place for every voice and instrument to shine on stage.
Signature events and outreach programs
At the Lionel Hampton School of Music, performance and public engagement go hand in hand. Through an exciting calendar of concerts, festivals and community outreach programs, LHSOM students and faculty share their talents with audiences across campus, the Palouse and beyond. These events offer transformative experiences—not only for performers, but also for K-12 students, aspiring composers, local music lovers, and visiting artists. Whether you're attending a performance, mentoring young musicians, or participating in a workshop, LHSOM invites you to be part of the music that brings our community together.
Future Vandal Singing Day
Future Vandal Singing Day is a free, one-day immersive choral event held annually each November for middle and high school students and their choral directors. Participants experience what it’s like to be a college music major by attending interactive classes, workshops and rehearsals led by LHSOM faculty and students.
This event is designed to inspire the next generation of vocal performers and demonstrate how music can remain a part of their lives in college and beyond—regardless of their chosen major or institution.
Event details
- Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
- Location: University of Idaho, Moscow Campus
- Cost: Free (Lunch not included; campus options available)
- Registration deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025
Questions? Contact Evan Stoor for more information.
Preparatory Division
Welcome to University of Idaho's Music Preparatory Division, coordinated by Sam Welsh, DMA. The "Prep" offers high quality music instruction in a university lab school setting. Our faculty includes Lionel Hampton School of Music professors, experienced professional musicians and student teachers working under professional supervision. We provide private lessons to students of all ages and levels in piano, voice and several string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. Our ensembles include the Greater Palouse Youth Orchestra and the Cantabile String Ensemble.
Ready to sign up? Please contact us at music-prep@uidaho.edu. We look forward to welcoming you to the Preparatory Division family.
Join our community
Be part of a collaborative, passionate and inspiring school that honors tradition while pushing musical boundaries. Whether you’re here to perform, teach, compose or explore, LHSOM will support your artistic journey.
Student opportunities
LHSOM offers hands-on learning experiences and extracurricular activities to enrich your student experience beyond the classroom.
Leadership and professional growth:
- Engage in student organizations for networking, professional development, and other opportunities.
- Gain real-world experience by joining the production crew (work study and non-work study eligible).
Contact us at music@uidaho.edu to discover more student opportunities.
Give to LHSOM
Support the next generation of musicians and music educators through scholarships, performance opportunities, and community outreach. Your gift makes a lasting impact.
Meet our people
The Lionel Hampton School of Music is a close-knit community of prominent performers, teachers, composers and scholars who interact closely with dedicated and talented students. Get to know our amazing faculty and staff here at the Lionel Hampton School of Music.