Music Department
The Music Department is a vital part of WSU’s campus life and our community. Not only does our program give students the opportunity to enrich their lives through music, but it also exposes other students, staff, and community members to the performing arts.
We believe that all learners should have the chance to participate in music, whether they are:
- preparing for a career in the field
- enhancing another degree with music education
- playing or singing in a performance for enjoyment
- simply attending concerts and recitals
In our department, you will learn from experienced educators and professional musicians. They are active in the music world through performing, presenting workshops, composing, researching, and writing to not only enrich themselves, but also their students.
Our faculty will give each student our best effort to help them get what they want from our program, whether it’s the skills for a career or the simple enjoyment of music.
Music Scholarships
Music scholarship auditions for the 2025-26 academic year will be held on Feb. 1 and March 1, 2025.
Renewable yearly awards range from $500 – $3,000.
Learn MoreMusic Events & Performances
Students can participate in a wide variety of music events on campus and in the community.
Every year the music department brings in a variety of guest artists and clinicians, such as jazz, classical and world music vocal and instrumental performances.
The WSU Symphonic Wind Ensemble hosts the annual High School Honor Band Festival each November.
View the Music CalendarFacilities & Equipment
Located in the center of the Winona campus, the DuFresne Performing Arts Center houses the Music Department and all its performance and rehearsal spaces.
The Vivian Fusillo Theatre seats 490 people and is used for large ensemble concerts, theater, and dance performances.
Students, faculty, and guest artists throughout the year also perform in our recital hall which comfortably seats 190.
Two large rehearsal rooms are set up for instrumental and choral groups complete with audio systems.
We also offer large teaching studios, a small ensemble rehearsal space and a piano lab equipped with Yamaha clavinovas and a teaching station.
Music Student Resources
Explore the Music Department SharePoint site to learn more about the department’s mission and goals, programs and events, policies, musician safety recommendations, and more.
Accreditation
WSU is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).