BOONE—The Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University has received a renewal of membership and accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Music.

The accreditation comes after a 10-year process of creating and completing a self-assessment and a visit from the association’s Commission on Accreditation.

The NASM reviewed the school’s classes, professor credentials and every degree program the school offers.

In the letter of approval, the commission commended the Hayes School of Music for “an outstanding self-study and effectively addressing issues raised in the visitor’s report.”

“This is the national stamp of approval from our peers that says our programs in all ways measure up to the high expectations for the discipline of music in universities,” Hayes School of Music Dean William Pelto said. “Our students are looking for professional positions and we need to have a program that is recognized and meets those standards in order for our students to be successful.”

When reviewing a music school for reaccreditation, NASM considers such factors as sufficient enrollment to cover the size and scope of programs offered; an appropriate number of faculty and other resources to cover the size and scope of programs offered; sufficient advanced courses in music appropriate to major areas of study at degree or program levels being offered; and ensemble experience at an advanced level.

According to information provided to NASM during its review process, the Hayes School of Music has one full-time faculty member for every 12 students. The school offers a range of ensembles that provides students opportunities to excel as performers and master a range of repertoire in their chosen instrument. Private support to the school enables it to support student scholarships, faculty travel for professional development and maintain and improve its instrument and technology equipment inventory.

The Hayes School of Music will begin the process again for their next review during the 2023-24 academic year.

The National Association of Schools of Music establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is comprised of schools, conservatories, colleges and universities with 652 accredited members.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.

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