Music (Worship Arts)
The Worship Arts degree program synthesizes three strands of study at Cornerstone University. By weaving together musical, biblical and media studies, these students are well-equipped for fruitful ministry in the local church.
Students who pursue the Music major with a Worship Arts emphasis are skilled musicians and leaders who recognize that people are starving for the greatness of God. They are growing their capacity to create opportunities for a gathered church to encounter God. These students are passionate about God's Word and possess strong interpersonal skills and a creative spirit.
"When you study Worship Arts at Cornerstone, you’re taking music classes, Bible classes and media classes. But everyone knows there’s more to an education than just classes. Our campus is in Grand Rapids, which puts it within driving distance of an incredible spectrum of churches: liturgical, traditional, contemporary, cutting edge – you can see them all in Grand Rapids. These classes and experiences combine to make you not only very hirable, but ultimately fruitful as you serve Jesus Christ and His church."
Matthew Westerholm
Associate dean of the chapel and director of worship arts
Division of Fine Arts
Meet the Music Faculty
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
- What can I do with this major?
- As churches above five hundred attendees become more common, the need for vocational worship professionals continues to grow. The Worship Arts emphasis is part of Cornerstone University’s ongoing commitment to provide the local church with qualified, skilled and capable workers.
- Why choose Music at Cornerstone?
Faculty Commitment
The Fine Arts Division faculty is committed to helping our students achieve excellence – both musically and academically. The faculty also develops caring and compassionate mentoring relationships with many of our students. This combination of excellence in the classroom and genuine attention outside the classroom significantly contributes to the personal and professional success of our students.
Technology
The Fine Arts Division has well-equipped midi and keyboard labs with up-to-date music software. In addition, music students have access to our Communication and Media Studies Division’s new Production Center which includes a recording room and over a dozen audio and video editing facilities.
Touring Groups (Credo, CU Brass and Red Letter Edition)
Cornerstone is committed to serving the local church and surrounding community. Our touring groups play a vital role in this mission and provide excellent opportunities for real-life performance experience in a variety of settings.
- Interesting classes I may take?
Music and Worship
Church Music Methods and Materials
Learning, Liturgy and Technology
Interpersonal Relationships in Ministry
Contemporary Ensembles
- What internships or partnerships are available with this program?
- The city of Grand Rapids is home to hundreds of churches of various denominational types that span the complete church spectrum from contemporary to traditional, small to large, young and old. Internships involve worship positions in churches, youth groups or other community ministries.
- What are grads doing now?
- With this major, students are prepared for leadership positions within the Christian church as worship leaders, musical directors and church musicians.