Organ at MSU

“Since starting two and a half years ago, organ has steadily grown to be a larger part of what I do. Each semester, my comfort levels increase with the instrument, as does my affection for it.” – Kelly Bohan, BM ’24, MM ’26

The MSU College of Music is home to the Red Cedar Organ, “Opus 134, ” designed and custom-built by Létourneau Organs. This magnificent instrument significantly expands the performance opportunities for students, offering a rich, resonant sound ideal for a wide range of organ repertoire. Located in the MSU Alumni Memorial Chapel, the Red Cedar Organ serves as an authentic and inspiring resource for students to learn, study, and perform. Its presence enhances the educational experience, allowing students to engage deeply with the complexities and nuances of organ music.

The opportunity to learn and perform on instruments such as the Red Cedar Organ under the guidance of dedicated faculty provides a comprehensive and enriching performance experience, broadening the perspectives and versatility of musicians of all disciplines.

The Red Cedar Organ Concert Series is an annual highlight of the College of Music’s concert season, featuring faculty from the College of Music and prestigious guest artists to bring world-class organ performances to East Lansing.

In 2024, the College of Music received a generous donation of a fully refurbished Hammond B3 organ. The B3’s iconic sound is common in jazz, blues, gospel, and many other styles of music, and having this instrument allows College of Music students to broaden their skills and creativity. Our Hammond is kept in the jazz combo
practice rooms and transported for performances as needed.

Ways to Support

Scholarships and Fellowships

Scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships are the cornerstone of excellence at the College of Music. Gifts may be made to existing scholarship funds for students taking organ lessons, or we can work with you to establish a new scholarship fund supporting students studying organ at MSU.

Concert Sponsorships

You can help ensure our ability to bring the best music to mid-Michigan and beyond by sponsoring the Red Cedar Organ Concert Series, or an individual concert. Sponsors receive recognition in the form of event publicity, promotions, programs, and pre- concert announcements. Sponsorship gifts start at $1,000.

Alumni Chapel Instrument Fund

Gifts to the Alumni Chapel Instrument Fund are used to support ongoing maintenance needs associated with keeping the Red Cedar Organ in top shape.

Ready to learn more? Get in touch with us:

517-353-9872 | music.giving@msu.edu