<p>The differences between BA and BM are pretty well outlined in the thread link I gave you.</p>
<p>It is not so much a function of being “harder” as it is a function of focus. The BM tends to be the “preferred degree” for those in performance based programs, as it is more “hands-on” than a BA counterpart. </p>
<p>The BA is in effect a liberal arts based degree, with an emphasis in a specific discipline, in your case popular music.</p>
<p>The BM is a professional or technical degree with greater credit requirements in the major field of study, much like a BS degree. This means in general more REQUIRED courses in specific areas of the major such as music theory & history, private instruction, ensemble work, courses using applied knowledge in mastering a skill. Virtually all BMs will require some liberal arts requirements and non-music electives. The amount will be based on school specific parameters.</p>
<p>The best place to get a feel for this is to look at the degree requirements for specific music areas at Thorton.</p>