Music education news

“When I think about the College of Music, I think about a vibrant learning environment and a vibrant space to grow,” says alumna Sarah Stoneback. “The College of Music provided me the skills and tools that I keep developing in pursuing my own teaching career.”

We’re thrilled to announce that—after a comprehensive national and international search—Kelly Parkes has accepted our offer to join the College of Music as associate professor of music education!

International student Samantha Torres candidly shares how her culture influenced her to pursue a career in music education, the challenges she’s overcoming, and why attending our College of Music is the best institution to support her in achieving her goals and her DEI mission. “I know with conviction that with every step and even misstep, I continue to learn,” she says.

“Rather than mourn what we have lost, try to find new, different ways of music making. I tried to take this as an opportunity to create long-term curriculums with student-centered projects, and this was a great way for students and myself to interact with music in new, safe ways.”

Olivia Huizar Conner shares how her background inspires her to promote Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in music.

Alumna Annie Booth shares how the College of Music continues to impact her career as an award-winning jazz pianist, band leader, composer/arranger and educator—and offers valuable career advice.

We’re so excited to welcome alumnus Damani Phillips back to campus this week and to present him the College of Music’s 2022 Distinguished Alumnus Award at our commencement ceremony on May 5! “The versatile training provided by CU has been the cornerstone of my success to date, and has enabled me to do and be many things well beyond typical expectations,” he says. Meet Phillips and discover his powerful advice to graduating Music Buffs.

To support our students’ and our community’s musical development, the College of Music offers summer session courses and richly varied summer programming.

Recent alumna Carrie Proctor always knew she wanted to impact young lives by becoming a music educator. Discover her passion to inspire youths through a shared connection to music.

College of Music student ambassador and bassoonist Laynie Metsker recently shared with us—and Future Buffs—her perspectives on becoming a music educator.