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Giving & Alumni
College of Music
Giving & Alumni
College of Music

Discover
What
Moves
You.

World-class education. World-class performances.

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What is it like to be part of
the MSU College of Music?

We have a laser focus on the educational and professional preparation you need to succeed in today’s music world, but we also aim for personal fulfillment and enjoyment. That is what makes us special. We care about your success, and it shows.

Students from throughout Michigan, across the U.S. and around the globe come together in our undergraduate and graduate degree programs, developing and supporting their personal, creative expression. The commitment and passion of our faculty and staff, and the supportive nature of student colleagues lead to professional success in our programs.

WE
ARE
SPARTANS
OF
research
"I've really enjoyed being able to explore new ideas and topics in my musicology and theory courses that were never presented as an option to me before, and I love the variety of research topics that faculty and students are participating and the amount of learning opportunities that provides."
Daniella Greene, graduate, violin
Areas
WE
ARE
SPARTANS
OF
Community
"Life as a music major at MSU feels like growing and pushing yourself alongside family. The close-knit community within the College of Music creates a supportive environment where both peers and professors hold you accountable and genuinely want to see you grow and succeed."
Laura-Simone Martin, undergraduate, jazz bass
Admissions
WE
ARE
SPARTANS
OF
opportunity
“The MSU College of Music has been a great place to develop meaningful friendships and expand my professional network. It is both rigorous and supportive, providing a great balance throughout the school year."
Yuji Jones, graduate, conducting
Admissions
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CARVE
YOUR
PATH.

We believe in providing the highest-quality music education to give musicians like you the space and inspiration needed to grow. Our undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and non-degree programs are designed to help students deeply develop their interests and talent. Realize your unique potential at the MSU College of Music.

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Upcoming Events

Sunday, April 12, 2026
Barbara Wagner Chamber Music Competition Showcase
1:00 pm
Cook Recital Hall
MSU Chamber Ensemble

Now in its sixth year, the Barbara Wagner Chamber Music Competition showcases top student ensembles competing for cash prizes and professional development opportunities, with winners selected by external jurors and announced at the event’s conclusion.

Event Details
$$$
Monday, April 13, 2026
USA at 250 years
7:30 pm
Fairchild Theatre
Joanne and Bill Church West Circle Series

Celebrate 250 years of American independence with an evening of familiar American music reimagined through solo and duo piano, violin and piano, and jazz-infused ensemble arrangements performed by MSU artists.

Event Details
$$$
Monday, April 13, 2026
Hearing Song and Conversion in Medieval France
4:30 pm
Music Building Room
Hollander Distinguished Lecture Series

This talk by Mary Channen Caldwell explores the concept of conversation literally and metaphorically through the lens of French, Hebrew, and Latin song in thirteenth-century France.

Event Details
Free
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Sensory Friendly Spartan Concert
10:00 am
Other
MSU Small Ensembles

All are welcome to this inclusive chamber concert tailored for individuals on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities, featuring interactive music activities, audience mobility, noise-making, and a quiet room for comfort.

Event Details
Free
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Percussion Ensemble
7:30 pm
Fairchild Theatre
MSU Small Ensembles

MSU’s Percussion Ensemble presents a dynamic program of contemporary works, showcasing a wide range of sounds and textures through varied instrumentation. 

Event Details
$$$
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News

MSU Jazz Spectacular Series Closes Season with Weeklong Celebration Featuring Anat Cohen
April 8, 2026

Four-event series includes swing dance, high school jazz competition, and a finale concert with an internationally acclaimed guest artist.

A Voice for Artistry and Access: Kenneth Thompkins Honored at DSO’s Classical Roots
March 27, 2026

Recognition spotlights the MSU professor’s musicianship, advocacy, and commitment to expanding opportunity for young musicians of color.

West Circle Series Finale Presents “USA at 250 Years”
March 26, 2026

Unique concert celebrates American music and composers.

Wilks Earns First Place for Development of a Helpful Piece of Equipment
March 19, 2026

DMA candidate and bassoonist Madeline Wilks created an adaptable instrument strap that earned top-level support among eight finalists in the annual Running Start Competition.

Dudamel debuts Humboldt’s Nature by Ricardo Lorenz in Los Angeles
March 17, 2026

The world premiere by the LA Phil of a deeply personal new work by MSU Music’s Ricardo Lorenz draws together Venezuela, Berlin, and a connection to Alexander von Humboldt.

Emerging Chamber Musicians Take the Stage in MSU Competition
March 11, 2026

Annual showcase concert features six student groups competing for top prizes.

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