State University of New York - Oneonta

The Music Department's mission, goals and objectives are appropriate to institutions of higher education, appropriate to the field of music, compatible with National Association of Schools of Music standards, and demonstrate that the fundamental purposes of the institution and the department are education. The Music Department majors -- Music and Music Industry -- have been approved as liberal arts degrees. The Music Department's 14:1 student/teacher ratio allows for engaging and meaningful mentorships, often highlighted in independent studies where faculty guide students working on their own research projects and creative activities. Students also have the opportunity to go on music-focused faculty-led trips across the globe, such as recent trips to Spain with Dr. Adam Kent (pianist) and England with Dr. Timothy Newton (choral director). In 2011, the Jazz Appreciation Society traveled with Professor Art Falbush (Big Band director) to New Orleans to help in the rebuilding of the Lower Ninth Ward after Hurricane Katrina. In addition to activities directly related to courses and clubs, students have the opportunity to attend conferences with faculty every year. Two regularly attended conferences include the National Association of Music Merchants Convention (NAMM) and the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC). SUNY Oneonta offers student conference attendance and travel grants that make it possible for many students to take advantage of these opportunities at a very low cost.