Our department’s mission is threefold: to create music through performance and composition, to understand the structural organization of sound in different music traditions, and to explore the social, political, economic, and historical roles and meanings of musical culture around the globe. Our scholarship and practice ranges widely from music cognition to ecoacoustics, from music of the Western classical tradition to musics from specific cultures around the world.
For applicants to the university looking to explore the degree programs offered in the Department of Music.
For music majors, minors, and those who might want to be—explore opportunities to study, learn, and play music at UC Santa Barbara.
For currently enrolled graduate students in Music—resources, advising, and referrals to resources.
For the music lover. Explore the Department of Music's diverse events calendar, including lectures, concerts, recitals, and masterclasses.
UCSB Professor Jennifer Kloetzel Receives Silver Medal from 2026 Music Awards
UCSB Professor of Cello Jennifer Kloetzel has been named a Silver Medal Winner – Outstanding Achievement in the 2026 Global Music Awards for The Bach-Wilson Project, an album that brings together the music of J.S. Bach, The Beatles, and original compositions in a creative exploration of Baroque musical traditions. Read More
"One of my favorite aspects of studying music at UCSB is being able to collaborate with, engage with, and learn from such a diverse community of students and faculty. It has been so interesting to connect with those of different backgrounds and experiences, while maintaining a similar passion for music."
Alexis Mancilla
Bachelor of Music | Flute
Class of 2023
"I was looking for places to enjoy the ocean, play music and live the college experience—and at UCSB I’ve found all three. I was made aware that UCSB’s music department has a lot of knowledge and resources to offer, including groundbreaking research and the amazing feat of human creativity that is the AlloSphere."
Joel Jaffe
Bachelor of Arts | Music Studies
Class of 2024
