John Davis

Key change

May 10, 2023

In this edition of the Dean’s Downbeat, Dean John Davis offers reflections and a vision for the future as he shares highlights from our newly revamped annual digital magazine—Colorado Music. “...our mission matters more than ever. Because what we do as musicians requires not only skill, but humanity—that is, the simultaneous conveyance of emotion, connection and understanding. Colorado Music takes stock of how far we’ve come.”

Daniel Sher

Passing the baton: Celebrating faculty retirements

April 27, 2023

Professor of Music Education and CMEA Hall of Fame inductee James Austin, Professor of Double Bass Paul Erhard, Associate Professor of Trombone William Stanley, and Professor of Piano and former Dean Daniel Sher have dedicated their careers to inspiring up-and-coming musicians and educators. We reflect on their contributions, achievements and legacy with gratitude.

Allan McMurray

Meet Allan McMurray: Honoring a career in service to music

April 26, 2023

In 2013, Allan McMurray retired after 35 years as professor at the College of Music, directing our bands, developing the master’s and doctoral programs in instrumental conducting, and more. He was the college’s first to receive a lifetime appointment as a Distinguished Professor and he’s recently been awarded the University Medal by the CU Board of Regents.

Boettcher concert hall

From CU Boulder to Denver—a music extravaganza

April 11, 2023

In addition to Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” and our collaboration with El Sistema Colorado, the College of Music’s upcoming CU at Boettcher concert will feature the world premiere of composer Carter Pann’s new work: his five-movement, 17-minute Symphony No. 3–“On The Importance of Our Democracy.”

Robert Shay Photo credit: Katherine Shay

Confronting the “Dido” dilemma

April 5, 2023

For Professor of Musicology Robert Shay, the many mysteries of Purcell’s “Dido and Aeneas” are too important to ignore. His critical edition of the English composer’s score provides fresh answers to a number of questions.

Assistant Professor of Trombone Sterling Tanner

Meet incoming Assistant Professor of Trombone Sterling Tanner

March 23, 2023

The College of Music is pleased to announce the appointment of Sterling Tanner who will join our faculty this fall!

André de Quadros

Inclusive excellence at the College of Music

March 13, 2023

What does inclusivity look like at the College of Music today? What are the college’s DEI—diversity, equity and inclusion—goals going forward? We’re making strides, but we know we must do more.

World music ensembles

Expanding the student experience through world music

March 8, 2023

Our world music ensembles mark three decades of exploring artistic identity, intercultural collaboration, global pedagogy and multidisciplinary approaches to music-making at the College of Music.

Kelly Parkes

Meet incoming Associate Professor of Music Education Kelly Parkes

Feb. 14, 2023

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!

Alexina Louie

Visiting composer Alexina Louie navigates Asian identity in Western classical music

Feb. 7, 2023

In a week-long residency coming up—including four free, public events—Canadian composer Alexina Louie will explore what it means to find your own voice and identity.

Pages