Music

Connecticut College to become 'All-Steinway School'

Nancy Marshall Athey '72 and husband Preston Athey recently made a commitment: An $855,000 gift that will elevate Connecticut College to distinction as an "All-Steinway School" by infusing the College's comprehensive music education program with these top quality pianos. Read the news release.

Student realizes his full music potential

Jonathan Markson '12 doesn't have much free time. As a music and technology major with a computer science minor, he has devoted his senior year - and nearly every free minute - to the creation of music through two major projects. Read the news release.

Music students take their talent on the road

In April 2011, eight Connecticut College music students were selected to perform at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research at Ithaca College, and the 2011 New England Intercollegiate Band Festival. "... a true honor for a liberal arts college to have two students presenting at such a prestigious conference and six performing with the region's premier honors ensemble," said professor Margaret Thomas, chair of the Music Department. Read the news release.

About the music department

Our department of music seeks to distinguish itself among liberal arts college music departments in the United States. Our curriculum is modeled on the best features of a music conservatory, but we are small enough to offer personal attention. We are proud of our excellent performance spaces and studios.

Two different majors, four concentrations

The music program offers you the choice of two different majors (music or music & technology) and four different concentrations, as well as a teaching certificate program in music education. 

Music lessons

We offer applied instruction (private music lessons) on any orchestral or band instrument, as well as classical guitar, voice, harp, piano, organ and harpsichord. Lesson fees are waived, thanks to the generosity of the Jack Niblack ’98 Music Lessons Fund. Lessons constitute two credits, and are graded. They carry the additional requirement of taking a music theory course during the first or second semester of study, and performing in a College ensemble for the first four semesters of study. Students must audition for lessons, demonstrating at least a moderate facility with their instrument.

Beginning vocalists and pianists may take Basic Vocal Skills or Basic Keyboard Skills, which are one-credit lessons designed for students with minimal background. These lessons are also free, thanks to the Niblack Fund. They require a music theory course as either a prerequisite or parallel registration.

Whether you are contemplating a career in music or simply enjoy learning and making music, the department is here for you.  

Join us for a performance

View our calendar of events and join us at an upcoming performance!