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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I visit the college and take a tour of the facilities?
Yes, in fact we want to meet you before approving your admission to the program. Your visit will give us a chance to sit down and talk, and show you the entire facility. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to ask us questions.
What are the programs within the Commercial Music Program?
There are two degrees in Commercial Music at Lamar State College – Port Arthur and one certificate: A.A.S. Commercial Music Sound Engineer, A.A.S. Commercial Music Performance,
and Cerficate Level 1 in Entertainment Business.
What are the requirements for admission to the Commercial Music program?
We expect you to have at least a basic knowledge of music with some experience as a musician, and an aptitude and interest in the ‘science’ of recording sound. If this fits your bill, then read on....
Students interested in pursuing the track in Commercial Music: Sound Engineer are required to interview with a representative from the Commercial Music department. Students interested in pursuing the track in Commercial Music: Performance are required to interview and audition.
Perspective students for the certificate in Entertainment Business must interview prior to admission.
Upon acceptance into a program you will be given a signed 'Commercial Music Acceptance Form'. This form is required at Admissions in order to register for Commercial Music classes. General admission to the College is a separate process.
How do I apply to the College?
Requests for application forms or admission information may be directed to the Office of Admission and Records, Lamar State College – Port Arthur, P.O. Box 310, Port Arthur, Texas 77641-0310. Or you may call them at 409-984-6165.
For the Performance major, how strong of a music background do I need to have?
You need to have a fundamental ability to play a musical instrument or some experience singing in a vocal ensemble. (Playing guitar or drums in your rock and roll 'garage band' actually counts!) We just want to know that you love making music and want to understand more about it. As for reading music, proficiency is not necessary, although it's always helpful.
Can I enroll in the Entertainment Business certificate before I audition or interview for the Sound Engineer or Performance major?
It is expected that perspective Entertainment Business certificate students have prior curricular or professional experience in entertainment/music business. It is an advanced level certificate designed to enhance your existing skill and knowledge.
Do you offer financial aid?
Financial Assistance in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and employment is available to a number of qualified students. Information about the types of scholarships available and eligibility requirements can be obtained from the Office of the Admission advisors. Eligibility criteria and information regarding grants, loans, and the college work-study program can be obtained from the Office of Student Financial Aid. Both offices are located in the Student Center, 1600 Proctor Street. Call 409-984-6203 for information. Information is also available online at www.LamarPa.edu.
What kind of courses are in the degree plans?
The degree programs are centered on a philosophy that good audio engineers and good performers are good musicians. In order to record music, the audio engineer must possess 'musical ears' and be able to communicate to the musicians who are being recorded. Performers need to be versed in all genres of music to communicate effectively with their audience. Therefore, our courses are a mixture of commercial music classes, music business, and applied music. For the full curriculum, see courses/degree plan.
Can I take individual courses instead of enrolling in the full degree program?
Commercial Music courses are not available to take as individual courses. You must be enrolled in the degree to register for a course.
How long will it take me to get a Commercial Music degree?
The curriculum for the two degrees is laid out in four semesters and a summer session of courses which total 66-68 credits, based on a full-time load each semester plus the summer. Therefore, as a full-time student, it's possible to get your degree within the span of two years. However, we do not require that our degree candidates register full-time. The certificate, consisting of 21 credits, can be completed in two semesters.
Do you have job placement assistance?
We want you to succeed in the music business, so we will point you to resources so you can help yourself find work in your field. First, because we care. Second, because if you succeed, we succeed. Keep in mind that just like in the 'real world', the more effort and work ethic you show while you're with us, the higher the recommendation you will receive from us.
Is housing available?
On-campus housing is not available at Lamar State College – Port Arthur. However, there are several apartment complexes and rental properties within an easy commute to campus. The Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce provides an online resource of area housing options.
What types of jobs are available for Commercial Music majors?
There are over 50 different kinds of jobs available for Commercial Music majors in the general areas of performance, music recording, DVD production, gaming, post production, mastering, live sound, internet audio broadcast, audio acoustics, speech recognition, audio software and hardware, music restoration, forensic audio, and so on.
I would like to speak to a department representative. Who should I call?
Call Dr. Kristel Kemmerer, Chair of Commercial Music, at 409-984-6520. |
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