The Music program prepares students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue professional careers and graduate study. Students perform throughout the year in traditional formal and non-traditional informal concerts, recitals, and gigs. Professional musicians who are active in the regional and national performance scenes, as well as in the international academic field, guide students in their study of music. A low student-to-faculty ratio sets the stage for valuable mentoring relationships. Emphasis is placed on integrating Music Technology, including Live Sound and Lights, Studio Recording, Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), Music Composition, and Music Notation Programs. While at the Mount, students will engage in performances in academic, athletic, religious, and community settings. An audition is required for initial acceptance into this program.
Audition Information for Music and Music Education Majors
MSJ Music conducts both in-person and video auditions. Please visit our Accepted landing page at https://app.getacceptd.com/msj for more information on video auditions, and audition requirements. To schedule in-person auditions, please contact Mark.McCafferty@msj.edu
Program Highlights
Music at the Mount
Professional musicians typically work in several areas of music, including teaching, performing, and composing/arranging. These careers vary between employment at institutions such as schools, orchestras, publishing houses, and in an entrepreneurial (self-employed/independent) arrangement. Many professional musicians find it beneficial to maintain contacts throughout the music, education, and entertainment industries.
Professional musicians who are active in the regional and national performance scenes, as well as in the international academic field, guide students in their study of Music. A low student-to-faculty ratio sets the stage for valuable mentoring relationships. While at the Mount, students will engage in performances in academic, athletic, religious, and community settings. Large ensembles, chamber ensembles, and opportunities for individual performances abound. Many students build experience in Church Music, and all students have the opportunity to serve communities in need. Outreach to retirement homes, underserved communities, and educational venues are a central part of the MSJ Music major experience.
- Film Music Lab
- Game Music Lab
- Live Sound and Lights
- Studio Recording Lessons
- Church Music
The Mount’s location in Cincinnati provides students with a wealth of musical opportunities. Minutes away are professional orchestras, Broadway touring theater productions, and all the benefits of a metropolitan city.
Our facilities offer students an intimate Recital Hall (90 seats) and Theater (1100 seats) as well as access to contemporary and traditional performance venues. Our food court is equipped with the latest sound equipment—used for Open Mic Nights and other social/entertainment events. Students are able to participate in the choir for worship, including Baccalaureate Mass and weekly Sunday Mass in Mater Dei Chapel.
MSJ Performing Arts Events 2024-2025
9/28 Choir Summit Park Blue Ash
10/15/24 7pm Choir Concert in Mater Dei
10/29/24 7:00pm Band Joint Concert with Jazz and Percussion Ensemble in Theatre
11/1/24 7pm Joint Senior Recital, Rachel Zucker and Seth Campbell in Theatre
November 7, 8, 9, 15th (7pm), 16th (2pm) Recital Hall Theatre Performances of The Oregon Trail
11/19/24 7pm Student Recital in Recital Hall
11/26/24 Austin Gray, Senior Recital, 7pm Recital Hall
12/5/24 7:00pm Theatre, Band and Choir Joint Ensembles Performance
12/12/24 Kenneth Rahm, Senior Recital, 7pm Recital Hall
1/7/25 7pm Faculty Recital in Recital Hall
2/25/25 7pm Choir Concert in Mater Dei
3/11/25 7:00pm Band Joint Concert with Jazz and Steel Drum in Theatre
April 3, 4,5, 11th (7pm), 12th (2pm) Theatre Performances of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
4/14/25 7pm, Student Recital in Recital Hall
4/22/25 7:00pm Band Concert in Theatre
4/24/25 7pm Choir Concert in Mater Dei Chapel
Click below to view our University Theatre, Recital Hall, Rehearsal Room, and other facilities and equipment at MSJ.
Launch University TheatreNews and Updates
Stay up to date with the most recent music program news and events; visit the Department of Creative Arts page.
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Michaelann Kelley
Mark McCafferty