A wide variety of performance opportunities await our students each year, with orchestras, bands, choirs and opera, jazz nonets and combos, small ensembles, and more.
A variety of programs and initiatives operate continuously or annually to enhance learning experiences and help students prepare for their future in music.
The MSU College of Music supports and challenges students, values innovation and creativity, and helps every community member achieve professional excellence.
MSU cellist Suren Bagratuni and pianist Soojin Kim perform sonatas by Brahms, Debussy, and Britten, showcasing the rich emotional and expressive breadth of the cello-piano repertoire across eras.
This program of dynamic works, conducted by David Thornton, includes Pegasus Fanfare from The Sleeping Spirit by John Gibson, Starry Ocean by Shuying Li, Anahita by Roshanne Etezady, Hands Across the Sea by John Philip Sousa, and The Wild Goose by Ryan George.
MSU composer Zhou Tian premieres his Concerto for Saxophone with acclaimed saxophonist Joseph Lulloff, joined by Hindemith’s Konzertmusik für Blasorchester and Maslanka’s Symphony No. 8, conducted by Kevin L. Sedatole.
The MSU Symphony Orchestra, led by Octavio Más-Arocas, celebrates the Honors Concerto Competition winners with a vibrant program of student soloists and a Sam and Mary Austin Fanfare by an MSU student composer.
MSU pianist Ralph Votapek performs Schubert’s final two piano sonatas, presenting a rare and profound journey through the composer’s richly expressive late style.
MSU artists Richard Sherman (flute) and Eric Zuber (piano) present a diverse program of expressive American works, highlighting the versatility of the flute-piano duo.
MSU Opera Theatre’s spring double bill presents two powerful one-act operas—Rossini’s comedic La Cambiale di Matrimonio and Puccini’s tragic Suor Angelica—exploring themes of family, obligation, and sacrifice through contrasting musical styles and emotional depth.
Known for their bold artistry and global presence, the Erinys Quartet makes their MSU debut with a dynamic program of Bartók, Smith, and Beethoven, showcasing the ensemble’s expressive range and deep musical connection.
MSU Opera Theatre’s spring double bill presents two powerful one-act operas—Rossini’s comedic La Cambiale di Matrimonio and Puccini’s tragic Suor Angelica—exploring themes of family, obligation, and sacrifice through contrasting musical styles and emotional depth.
MSU Opera Theatre’s spring double bill presents two powerful one-act operas—Rossini’s comedic La Cambiale di Matrimonio and Puccini’s tragic Suor Angelica—exploring themes of family, obligation, and sacrifice through contrasting musical styles and emotional depth.
MSU Opera Theatre’s spring double bill presents two powerful one-act operas—Rossini’s comedic La Cambiale di Matrimonio and Puccini’s tragic Suor Angelica—exploring themes of family, obligation, and sacrifice through contrasting musical styles and emotional depth.
MSU pianist Stanislav Khristenko presents a solo recital exploring the evolution of etudes, from early virtuoso pieces to modern works that redefine the genre.
MSU cellist Suren Bagratuni performs Bach’s Six Suites for solo cello, offering a rich, expressive journey through these iconic Baroque masterpieces.
Viridis showcases contemporary global music from Bulgaria, Armenia, and beyond, followed by Campus Choir’s program centered on Gwyneth Walker’s An Hour to Dance, all conducted by Mariana Romero Serra and Michael Huey-Jones.
The Singing Spartans honor the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with music exploring freedom’s enduring meaning, while Mosaic performs works centered on Isabella Leonarda’s Domine, expressing hope and resilience, led by Meredith Bowen and Stuart Chapman Hill.
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.