The Programs in Fine Arts prepares passionate, spiritual leaders for careers and service in the fine arts.
The Programs in Fine Arts will prepare you with the skills, experience, and knowledge you need to follow your calling as an artist and creator. You’ll be challenged to perfect your craft and supported as your pursue your passions.
Whether you’re interested in performance, worship, recording, or the music business, our programs offer applicable, hands-on training, engaging classes, and mentorship from dedicated, highly-qualified professors with years of experience in their fields.
North Central is also home to state-of-the-art recording facility McPherson Studios, giving you opportunities to hone your skills using all of the latest recording equipment. Over the years we’ve worked with recording artists Sara Groves, Ben Gowell, and Kristi Northrup, among others.
Participating in one or more of our performance groups will prepare you with live performance experience and give you opportunities to practice your art.
Purchase tickets for Fine Arts productions
North Central University’s Programs Fine Arts is proud to present several annual theatre and music productions. For details on these events and to purchase tickets, click the link below.
"NCU’s music program really propelled me into what I’m doing now. I enjoyed endless hands-on opportunities to get better at my craft. North Central has always had a way of fostering the presence of God. Believe me when I say there is something special in the atmosphere. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?"
Ryan Williams '07 - Worship Leading Major
Watch the new Worship Live single, performed and recorded by NCU students and alumni!
North Central’s premiere touring performance group, Worship Live is composed of current students under the direction of Dr. Ellington Porter. The group members combine their unique styles to create and play music that worships and praises our God. Members of the group have come to Minneapolis from all parts of the country with one common goal—to learn and create amazing music that will change the world!
Worship Live members are selected by audition and serve as the primary worship team for our daily chapel services. Worship Live also performs nationally at camps, conferences, and conventions. If you are interested in having Worship Live at your church or event, booking requests can be made via email to the Booking Coordinator.
Book Worship Live:
Hannah Sawczak | Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Academic Affairs
hnsawcza@northcentral.edu
Concert Chorale
The Concert Chorale is an ensemble of fifty singers and instrumentalists from North Central. They’re known for their exciting and passionate music ministry in styles ranging from choral classics to contemporary gospel. The Chorale has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, singing in churches, schools, and concert halls.
Faculty Spotlight
Vinnie Zarletti
Dean, Undergraduate Studies
I am originally from Kenosha, WI (go Pack go!), and am married to my high school sweetheart (Justine). We have three amazing kids (Vinnie, Sofie, and Santino), and live in Princeton, MN (way north!). As a graduate of NCU (B.A. Music, 2002), I have had a love for the school for more than half of my life, and truly enjoy teaching here! Since graduating, I have served the local church in music ministry for over 18 years (serving in Orlando, FL and Princeton, MN). It has been my pleasure to lead people in worship through these years, and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with the next generation of worship leaders and music pastors here at NCU.
WHAT ARE YOUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE?
Worship Studies and Musical Worship Leadership in the Local Church
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT TEACHING AT NORTH CENTRAL?
I love the culture of NCU and the impact that it has around the world. It is an honor to work with such incredible students!
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE CLASSES TO TEACH?
Theology of Christian Worship. Worship is so much bigger than we think it is! This class helps us to connect to God’s Story and explore the truth that Christian worship leads us to the Father, through the Son, by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What Sets Us Apart
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Scholarships
The program of Fine Arts awards Music and Theatre Scholarships up to $5,000 per year for students interested in pursuing a calling in these fields. These awards are not need-based and are renewable for up to 4 years provided you continue to meet the scholarship requirements. Scholarships are awarded based on your audition and interview with faculty.
Visit our financial aid site to learn more about Music Scholarships, and how you can apply.
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McPherson Studios
McPherson Studios is North Central’s state-of-the-art recording facility, featuring the latest equipment and technology including a Pro Tools HD system (loaded featuring McDSPand Antares plug-ins) with a Digidesign Control 24 interface, Genelec and Westlake monitors, and a wide selection of microphones and outboard equipment. Our Control Room is a great place to work with comfortable leather sofas and a warm atmosphere. The Studio A recording room is over 1200 square feet with enough room to record a choir, a big band, or an orchestra. Studio A also features a Yamaha grand piano with full MIDI capability. There are two additional rooms when isolation is needed for the session.
Artists who have recorded with us:
- Sara Groves
- Ben Gowell
- Kristi Northrup
- David Pedde
- David Juve
- Sovereign Grace Music Kids Project
- Jeff Kerr and River Valley Worship Team
- David Santisteven
- Emmanuel Christian Center Youth Worship Team
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Internships
The following Programs in Fine Arts majors require an internship as part of the graduation requirement:
- Worship Leadership
- Music Recording Arts-Studio Production
- Music Recording Arts-Live Production
Please visit the Career Services page for more information.