Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow: A Harmonious Celebration of Sound and Story
A Legacy Rooted in Excellence
The FSU College of Music has long stood as a beacon of musical education and performance, boasting more than 125 years of distinguished history. The upcoming season not only honors this rich heritage but also looks ahead to the future with bold artistic vision. Greg Jones, Associate Dean of the College of Music, emphasizes that each performance reflects the institution’s dual commitment to preserving time-honored traditions while embracing innovative approaches that inspire both students and audiences alike.
This year marks several milestones tied to the university's deep musical roots, including the centennial celebration of its first official orchestra concert. On March 25, the University Symphony Orchestra will recreate the original 1926 program performed by the Florida State College for Women ensemble. Conductor Alexandra Dee, an esteemed alumna, will lead an all-female orchestra in a historically significant and emotionally resonant performance that pays tribute to the trailblazing women who laid the foundation for today’s thriving musical community.
Opening Nights: Grandeur, Nostalgia, and New Beginnings
The season kicks off on September 19 with the University Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Alexander Jiménez, Professor of Conducting and Director of Orchestral Activities. Audiences can expect a powerful opening featuring Ravel’s “Piano Concerto for the Left Hand,” performed by Doctoral Concerto Competition winner Molly Reid, followed by Respighi’s evocative tone poem “Pines of Rome.” This dynamic pairing sets the stage for a season filled with emotional depth and technical brilliance.
In the weeks that follow, the Wind Orchestra will pay homage to legendary FSU Band Director James Croft on September 26. Known for his charismatic leadership and enduring influence on generations of musicians, Croft’s legacy will be honored through a carefully curated program that showcases the band’s evolution over the decades. Meanwhile, the faculty-led event “May I Have This Dance?” on October 9 offers a unique blend of choreography and live instrumentation, celebrating the intersection of movement and melody in a way that is both intimate and theatrical.
Jazz Icons and Contemporary Fusion
Jazz enthusiasts will find plenty to celebrate throughout the season, beginning with Helen Sung’s appearance alongside the Honors Jazz Combo on October 13. A Grammy-nominated pianist and composer, Sung brings a sophisticated edge to the genre, blending improvisational flair with meticulous arrangement. Her collaboration with FSU’s elite student ensemble highlights the college’s dedication to nurturing young talent while offering them opportunities to perform alongside seasoned professionals.
Later in the season, the Bang on a Can All-Stars arrive on January 30, bringing their genre-defying sound that fuses elements of classical, jazz, rock, and electronic music. Described by The New York Times as “a fiercely aggressive group” with the power of a rock band and the precision of a chamber ensemble, the All-Stars are known for pushing sonic boundaries and challenging conventional expectations of what orchestral performance can achieve. Their residency at FSU includes a special concert and masterclasses, providing students with rare access to some of the most inventive minds in contemporary composition.
Opera Under the Spotlight
Opera lovers have much to anticipate, with three major productions scheduled across the season. In late October, FSU Opera presents Massenet’s “Cendrillon,” a lyrical retelling of Cinderella that blends French romanticism with theatrical elegance. The production runs from October 30 to November 2 before moving into Mozart’s effervescent comedy “Così fan tutte” in April. Known for its intricate vocal writing and playful exploration of human relationships, “Così fan tutte” remains one of the cornerstones of the operatic repertoire and will be staged with the same level of artistry and dramatic flair that FSU Opera is known for.
Closing the opera season in May is Nico Muhly’s “Dark Sisters,” a contemporary work that explores themes of identity, faith, and resilience within the context of American religious communities. As part of the modern opera landscape, Muhly’s piece exemplifies the college’s commitment to presenting works that resonate with contemporary audiences while maintaining high artistic standards. Running May 29–30, this production invites viewers into a world where tradition and personal freedom collide, underscored by a score that is both haunting and beautiful.
New Sounds, New Horizons
For those eager to experience the cutting edge of musical innovation, the Festival of New Music returns January 29–31, showcasing premieres and experimental works from emerging composers. Now in its annual iteration, the festival serves as a vital incubator for fresh ideas and avant-garde expressions. With lectures, interactive workshops, and performances by visiting artists, it offers a multidimensional experience that bridges academic inquiry with public engagement.
This year’s lineup includes collaborations with leading institutions and ensembles dedicated to expanding the frontiers of contemporary music. Alongside the Bang on a Can All-Stars, the festival features appearances by guest composers, student ensembles, and interdisciplinary projects that explore how music interacts with technology, visual arts, and spoken word. By integrating educational outreach with professional-caliber concerts, the festival continues to establish FSU as a hub for forward-thinking musical discourse.
Community Connections and Collaborative Performances
Beyond the mainstage events, the season is enriched by partnerships and collaborative efforts that extend the reach of the College of Music beyond campus borders. Opening Nights at FSU plays a pivotal role in bringing world-class performers to Tallahassee, with highlights including Grammy-winning country artist Kendell Marvel (October 7), jazz vocalist Nicole Zuraitis (January 20), and internationally acclaimed ensembles Boston Brass and Imani Winds (February 3). These performances not only elevate the cultural landscape of the region but also provide students with exposure to diverse genres and performance styles.
The University Musical Associates (UMA) continue to serve as essential supporters of the college’s mission, offering members exclusive benefits such as reserved seating, behind-the-scenes access, and invitations to special events. Their contributions help sustain the high level of excellence that defines FSU’s musical offerings, ensuring that both established programs and new initiatives receive the support they need to thrive. UMA membership provides a tangible way for patrons to invest in the next generation of musicians and scholars while enjoying unparalleled concert experiences.
Seasonal Highlights and Signature Events
Throughout the year, beloved annual events return with renewed energy and expanded programming. PRISM, the student-led chamber series, runs December 2–5, offering intimate performances that highlight the versatility and creativity of FSU’s instrumentalists and vocalists. Similarly, the Seasonal Celebration on December 7 unites choirs, orchestras, and soloists in a festive concert that captures the spirit of the holiday season through sacred and secular works.
Looking toward spring, the college joins national commemorations with “America 250: A Celebration” on April 14, a concert that reflects on the nation’s musical heritage through works spanning early American hymns to contemporary patriotic compositions. This special event aligns with broader cultural observances and underscores the role of music in shaping collective identity and historical reflection.
Supporting the Future of Music Education
At the heart of the FSU College of Music’s mission is a commitment to cultivating the next generation of performers, educators, and scholars. Each concert, workshop, and masterclass contributes to a learning environment where students are challenged to grow technically, intellectually, and creatively. Faculty-led showcases like “May I Have This Dance?” not only entertain but also demonstrate the pedagogical depth embedded in every aspect of the college’s programming.
Through scholarships, competitions, and mentorship opportunities, the college ensures that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to world-class training. The Doctoral Concerto Competition, which awarded Molly Reid the chance to perform with the University Symphony Orchestra, is just one example of how FSU invests in its students’ futures. By giving them platforms to shine on prestigious stages, the college reinforces its reputation as a launchpad for successful careers in music.