Northeastern State University boasts an exciting, rapidly growing music department that offers many opportunities for both music majors and non-majors. With numerous degree options, including Performance, Jazz Studies, Music Education, Music (Business), and Musical Arts, NSU music graduates pursue careers as teachers, performers, church musicians, and numerous other professions.
NSU offers the musical opportunities of a large university with the low cost and convenience of a regional institution. Private lessons are offered to both instrumental and vocal students. Specialized private study in jazz improvisation is also offered. Private instructors at NSU have national and international reputations as virtuoso performers on their respective instruments.
There are numerous ensemble opportunities at NSU as well. The band program is led by Dr. Norman Wika, and consists of the Riverhawk Marching Band, Concert Band, Basketball Band, Winter Guard, and Wind Ensemble. The Riverhawk Marching Band proudly displayed their new uniforms during the 2008 marching season.
Dr. Tommy Poole, Director of Jazz Studies, leads a nationally recognized jazz program. The recent CD release of the top jazz ensemble, Appointment in Milano, was selected as one of the ten best CDs in the nation by Jazz Education Journal. NSU Offers the only bachelor's degree in jazz studies in the state of Oklahoma.
The choral program is led by Vaughn Roste and consists of the University Singers and University/Community Chorus. The choral ensembles present numerous concerts throughout the year, often with full orchestral accompaniment.
The piano area is led by Dr. Ronald Chioldi. In 2008, Dr. Chioldi reinstituted the NSU Piano Festival and Competition, which is attended by many students and community members.
Opportunities for experience in small ensembles exist as well, with jazz combos, chamber music, and opera workshop.
For more information, feel free to contact us at 918-444-2700.