Greetings from the Ohio University School of Music
Welcome to the Ohio University School of Music’s internet home! As the new director of the Ohio University School of Music, I am very excited about the talents and achievements of our faculty and students. As you explore your educational options, I urge you to keep Ohio University at the top of your list! OU offers
- A warm, and friendly environment in which to learn and live
- A great setting for performance and academic studies in music
- A nationally-recognized faculty who are devoted to the students they teach
- Programs of study aimed at helping you achieve your dreams as a professional musician, regardless of your specific interest.
Located in Athens, Ohio, a scenic center that is nationally known for its artistic life, the College of Fine Arts includes the schools of Music, Art, Dance, Film, Interdisciplinary Arts, and Theater. For more than 75 years, School of Music alumni have enjoyed prominent careers with major orchestras, military bands, as well as jazz and popular music ensembles. They have held major positions as composers, conductors, educators, and music therapists across the nation.
Ohio University offers outstanding undergraduate and graduate degrees in music. The Bachelor of Music includes programs in composition, music education (instrumental-vocal), music history, music theory, music therapy, and performance (orchestral instruments, piano, organ and voice). With permission, students may select two areas such as music education and performance, or performance and composition. The Bachelor of Arts in Music allows for emphasis in a second field. Graduate students may pursue the Master of Music in the above programs or Performance-Pedagogy in piano, brass, woodwinds, and voice. Advanced students may select the Performance Certificate. The PhD in Interdisciplinary Arts includes music and is offered through The School of Interdisciplinary Studies. The OU School of Music is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Each year the School of Music presents almost 200 concerts, master classes and workshops in a variety of styles. Students are admitted free of charge with a valid school ID card. We are proud to announce ARTS FOR OHIO, a series of events for OU and the Athens community that will bring audiences into the worlds of the composer, conductor, performer, and scholar. Visit the Calendar of Events for more information.
The School of Music faculty is comprised of outstanding professional practitioners in the composing, analysis, teaching, conducting, and performing of music. The School of Music houses the Athens Community Music School, a great resource that provides instruction and ensembles for children through senior adults from across our region. Select music majors have the opportunity to serve as teaching apprentices.
Ohio University ensembles provide outstanding experiences to students, regardless of major. Among these are the Symphony Orchestra, Marching 110, Symphonic Band, New Music Ensemble, Choral Union, University Singers, Women’s Chorale, Singing Men of Ohio, Opera Theater, and Jazz Ensembles. Numerous chamber music opportunities are also available. The OU Wind Ensemble will perform at the 2008 Ohio Music Education Association Conference in Cincinnati and the World Projects Wind Band Festival at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. All ensembles are open to all OU students by auditions held during the first week of classes.
Ohio University students are encouraged to avail themselves of several international study opportunities. Music students may take advantage of several unique programs in England, Spain, Poland, and Africa. Details on these activities will be posted in the near future.
We invite you to join us at Ohio University! If you would like to receive more information, contact the School of Music at 740-593-4244 or Email me at parkinsw@ohio.edu. To schedule a campus visit or an undergraduate audition, contact Elizabeth Braun. For graduate information, contact Dr. Richard Wetzel. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you continued success as you pursue your future in music.
Most Sincerely,
Michael Parkinson, DMA
Director, School of Music