Central Michigan University School of Music

Central Michigan University School of Music Never wonder what you’ll do with a degree. Start doing it now at Central Michigan University! For a list of events: https://music.cmich.edu/events

The School of Music, in collaboration with Clarkston High School, is excited to present the "Band Rehearsal Workshop." T...
06/03/2026

The School of Music, in collaboration with Clarkston High School, is excited to present the "Band Rehearsal Workshop." This event offers directors and colleagues a valuable chance to enhance their conducting and rehearsal techniques for their upcoming concert bands! Scheduled for Friday, November 13th, it will take place during regular school hours.

Band staff and selected private lesson instructors from Central Michigan University will be visiting Clarkston High School to conduct a CMU Band Rehearsal Workshop. The sessions will cover tailored instrument guidance during rehearsals, effective conducting methods to optimize rehearsal time, and performance strategies designed for full ensembles. 🎵🎶

For a fee of $50, participants will gain access to a wealth of insightful information and will have the opportunity to practice these techniques on the podium. To secure your spot, kindly scan the QR code or follow the link provided below:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/SxAjQQxTTk

A heartfelt thank you to Mike Lewis, his team, and the students for facilitating this event! The faculty from the CMU School of Music is thrilled to collaborate with you, and we look forward to seeing you on November 13th! 🔥☝

For any questions or concerns regarding this event, please contact Dr. Christopher Chapman, Director of Bands at [email protected].

Since 1979, the United States has celebrated African American Music Appreciation Month in June, honoring the essential c...
06/01/2026

Since 1979, the United States has celebrated African American Music Appreciation Month in June, honoring the essential contributions of African-American musicians, composers, and singers to American culture. 🎵🎶

This month pays homage to the rich African roots that gave rise to various music genres like rap, hip-hop, jazz, and blues, reflecting themes of slavery, racism, and heritage.

In 1979, President Jimmy Carter officially designated June as Black Music Month, and in 1998, journalist Dyana Williams (pictured) aimed to organize an event at the White House during President Clinton's term, but it required official recognition.

Undeterred, Williams collaborated with Congressman Chaka Fattah to advocate for legislation, leading to June's official designation as Black Music Month two years later. In 2009, President Obama renamed it African-American Music Appreciation Month, highlighting the importance and variety of Black music genres. This includes sacred music rooted in gospel, blues, and R&B reflecting connections to heritage, and the global rise of hip-hop and rock and roll among youth.

The 1970s were pivotal for Black music, marking its national and international recognition and boosting its commercial value. African-American music is a crucial thread in the fabric of American history. The influence of African-American musicians gave rise to genres like jazz and rap, transforming the cultural landscape and connecting generations, especially during the Civil Rights Movement. These sounds have shaped rock, soul, gospel, and more, with iconic bands like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles citing blues and jazz as key inspirations.

Today, funk, Motown, and hip-hop continue to evolve from this rich legacy. In June, music lovers come together to celebrate African-American Music Appreciation Month, honoring the community's diversity and its significant role in America’s cultural dialogue. 🔥☝

📅 MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 📅The School of Music is pleased to announce that internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble LYYRA w...
05/24/2026

📅 MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 📅
The School of Music is pleased to announce that internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble LYYRA will serve as the guest artists for this year's Choral Vocal Day on Friday, November 6th, 2026. 🎤🎵🎶

Recognized for their innovative artistry and dynamic performances, LYYRA is a six-voice women's ensemble celebrated for blending diverse musical traditions with contemporary vocal performance. Comprised of singers from around the world, the ensemble is known for its rich harmonies, expressive storytelling, and collaborative approach to music-making. Through performances, educational residencies, and outreach initiatives, LYYRA continues to engage audiences internationally while championing creative, connection, and excellence in choral music.

As part of their residency, LYYRA will present a free public concert on Thursday, November 5th, 2026 in Staples Family Concert Hall at 7:30PM. The ensemble will also lead masterclasses in collaboration with participating choral ensembles throughout Choral Vocal Day, offering students and directors the opportunity to learn directly from internationally recognized artists.

Choral directors interested in participating are encouraged to register soon, as space is limited! Reservations may be completed using the QR code on the post or the registration link provided below:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Sk6AcSNPuY

For question regarding Choral Vocal Day, please contact Dr. Amon Eady, Director of Choral Activities at ([email protected]).

To learn more about LYYRA, visit their official website:
https://www.lyyramusic.com/

We hope to see you there! 🔥☝

🌟ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT🌟Ning Zhang, a viola performance major from the Central Michigan University class of 2026, has garnered...
05/22/2026

🌟ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT🌟
Ning Zhang, a viola performance major from the Central Michigan University class of 2026, has garnered the prestigious scholarship from the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University for graduate studies in viola performance, commencing in Fall 2026.

In addition to the offer from Peabody, Ning has also been awarded full scholarships from several esteemed institutions, including the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University Bloomington, the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, the College of Music at the University of North Texas with a Graduate Assistantship, and the University of Oklahoma with a Graduate Teaching Assistantship.

Throughout her undergraduate journey at Central Michigan University, Ning honed her viola skills under the guidance of Dr. Chris Ferrara, receiving support from Dr. Fiste, Dr. Wang, and the entire faculty of the School of Music.

When asked about this opportunity, she said, "I’m truly grateful to my professors Dr. Ferrara, Dr. Fiste, and Dr. Wang, along with all the faculty who supported me throughout my undergraduate studies. Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in me made this possible."

Ning will pursue her graduate studies at the Peabody Institute with Professor Choong Jin Chang.

Congratulations to you, Ning, on this outstanding achievement! Good luck!🔥☝♾️

There is still time to enroll in the 2026 Marching Chips High School Summer Camp, which is set to take place from Sunday...
05/21/2026

There is still time to enroll in the 2026 Marching Chips High School Summer Camp, which is set to take place from Sunday, July 12th through Friday, July 17th! We are excited to welcome back returning campers as well as those who will be joining us for the first time! 🌟

Please note that the application deadline is rapidly approaching, with the final date being Monday, July 6th, 2026! We encourage you to register promptly to take advantage of the early registration fee of $665, available for those who sign up on or before June 1st. After this date, the regular registration fee will increase to $680. To secure your place, simply scan the QR code featured on the flyer or click the link provided below!
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/HZEtFW2BNQ

If you have any questions or require further information regarding the Marching Chips Summer Camp, please do not hesitate to reach out to Dr. James Batcheller, the Director of the Marching Band, at ([email protected]). 🔥☝

The School of Music is delighted to announce that Dr. Will Chandler will join us as our Music Education professor starti...
05/21/2026

The School of Music is delighted to announce that Dr. Will Chandler will join us as our Music Education professor starting in August 2026! 🎵🎶

Chandler brings with him an impressive background, having served for seven years as a high school choir director in Texas and teaching at various universities across Texas and the Southeastern United States.

Recently, he made his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall this past April. His expertise has been showcased at events such as the Texas Music Education Association (TMEA) and the National American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), and he frequently leads professional development workshops. Additionally, he is a sought-after guest conductor and clinician for regional and district honor choirs.

When discussing his move to Michigan, he expressed, "I’m thrilled to relocate to Michigan and be nearer to family, including my nieces and nephew. I eagerly look forward to joining the outstanding music faculty at Central Michigan University." 🔥☝

🎻 VIOLIN FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY! 🎻The School of Music is thrilled to announce an exceptional fellowship opportunity desi...
05/21/2026

🎻 VIOLIN FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY! 🎻

The School of Music is thrilled to announce an exceptional fellowship opportunity designed specifically for incoming graduate violinists! This fellowship encompasses a variety of performance opportunities, collaborative projects, and invaluable real-world experiences! 🎵🎶

For more information, please contact either:
☑ Dr. Matheus Garcia Souza, violin professor ([email protected])
☑ Dr. Keith Dodson, Director of Orchestral Studies ([email protected])

Share this with any graduate violinists that are interested! 🔥☝🎻

National Band Director’s Day, observed annually on May 20th, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated school band ...
05/20/2026

National Band Director’s Day, observed annually on May 20th, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the dedicated school band directors and conductors who tirelessly strive to enhance students’ experiences during sporting events while also nurturing the talents of young musicians through the art of music education. 🎵🎶

This special day presents a wonderful opportunity for everyone to express their gratitude towards these remarkable individuals and acknowledge the countless hours they invest in their roles. After all, the vibrant atmosphere at football games would be significantly diminished without the exhilarating performances from the school band!

A particularly heartfelt acknowledgment goes to Dr. Jim Batcheller and Dr. Chris Chapman for their unwavering commitment to showcasing the exceptional talents of the Central Michigan University Chippewa Marching Band each year! 🔥☝

The School of Music is thrilled to welcome Professor Allison Parramore as our new Assistant Professor of Flute beginning...
05/18/2026

The School of Music is thrilled to welcome Professor Allison Parramore as our new Assistant Professor of Flute beginning in August 2026! 🎵🎶

Previously, she held positions on the flute faculties of the Longy School of Music (Boston, MA), University of Rhode Island, and Ithaca College.

Recognized for a multifaceted and versatile career as an orchestral, chamber, and solo musician, and freelance artist, Parramore has also performed with leading ensembles including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Boston Ballet and Lyric Opera, and the New World Symphony, among others. She currently holds positions with the Boston Festival Orchestra and the Cayuga Chamber Orchestra.

In the summers, Parramore serves on the flute faculty of the New England Conservatory Summer Orchestra Institute and has been a guest educator at the Boston University Tanglewood Institute.

If you want to read more about her, please go to her website below:
➡️ www.AllisonParramore.com

Parramore says, “I’m overjoyed to join the CMU community in their commitment to a vision and mission that propel today’s students towards their dreams in this rapidly changing musical landscape. These remarkable students are so well-equipped to serve communities in meaningful ways and through many pathways. I can’t wait to get started!” 🔥☝

05/15/2026

⭐️DRUM MAJOR REVEAL⭐️

As we start gearing up for band camp and prepping for the marching band season, we’d like to announce our new drum majors:

✅ Tucker Dion as Assistant Drum Major
✅ Harry Krafchak as Head Drum Major

The Chippewa Marching Band and the School of Music wishes Abigail a positive farewell on her new journey after graduating! When we asked her what her next chapter in life was, she said she was heading out to the mountains of Idaho to work as a Teaching Assistant for Idaho State University’s Geology Field Camp for 6 weeks.

Congrats on your new adventure, Abigail, and good luck! 🔥🆙♾️

Address

162 Music Building
Mount Pleasant, MI
48859

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

(989) 774-3281

Website

https://www.cmich.edu/academics/colleges/college-arts-media/departments-schools/school-of-musi

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