Vocal performance students and faculty were well represented at the recent National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Central Region Conference and Competition, which was held at Northern Illinois University. The competition featured participants from three states: Missouri, Iowa and Illinois. Areas of recognition Kara Libby (student of Carol Chapman) — 3rd place … [Read more...] about Vocal performance students recognized in competition
In July 2016, Jerry Hoover, music professor and director of bands, will retire after more than 30 years at Missouri State. Saying farewell to a band era Hoover joined the university in 1985 and started the Pride Band program. In March, Hoover told "The Standard," MSU's student-run newspaper, that he estimates he's taught more than 4,000 students in that time. Hoover … [Read more...] about Longtime band director to pass baton this summer
Dr. Richard Todd Payne, associate professor in music, has been selected to perform the role of Hero/Louis Armstrong in a Memphis, Tennessee, production of “The Real Ambassadors." The performances will be 7 p.m. on April 8 and 2 p.m. on April 10 at Playhouse on the Square. The production is sponsored by Rhodes College, Opera Memphis and the 2016 Brubeck Festival as part of … [Read more...] about Payne snags lead in Brubeck’s ‘Real Ambassadors’
Emeritus Professor Bill Armstrong and his wife, Margo, have gifted $25,000 to the MSU jazz studies program after hosting two art gallery fundraising events in November. Armstrong, co-founder of the Watercolor USA Honor Society, donated more than 30 of his watercolors, oil paintings and drawings for the events, held at his Springfield gallery at 2053 S. Waverly Avenue, Suite … [Read more...] about Artist raises $25,000 for jazz studies program
Grammy award-winning saxophonist Dick Oatts will headline Missouri State's 2016 Jazz Festival in April. The festival is an opportunity for young musicians to perform at MSU and take master classes from jazz professionals. Register your band Registration is now open to school bands and ensembles interested in participating in the annual event. Schools have the option of … [Read more...] about Saxophonist Dick Oatts to headline 2016 Jazz Festival