Musical Organizations

All MSU students, regardless of academic major, are enthusiastically invited to participate in one or more of the musical ensembles offered through the University Band and Choir programs and the Department of Music. These ensembles offer diverse performance opportunities both on and off-campus. Membership is available through audition. Scholarships and tuition waivers are available in the band and choir programs based on talent and experiences as demonstrated through audition.

Founded in 1902, the Maroon Band Program is one of the oldest and best-known bands in the Southeast. The Famous Maroon Band is at the center of game-day spirit, is one of the most visible groups on campus, and serves as musical ambassador for the university. The band appears at all home football games and travels to championship and bowl games. Interested members of the Maroon Band audition for placement in two Basketball Pep Bands to continue supporting the Bulldogs in the basketball season.

The Wind Ensemble, Symphonic, Community, and Concert Bands offer opportunities for students of all ability levels to pursue the study of the instruments through the performance of advanced ensemble literature, with the Wind Ensemble serving as the premiere instrumental concert ensemble. The Jazz Bands are offered for those with an interest in jazz, and numerous chamber ensembles for winds and percussion are offered through the Music Education Department.

The Chamber Singers are the premiere, touring ensemble on the MSU campus. Comprised of students from various disciplines, each member is committed to singing choral music at the highest level. A significant amount of previous experience in vocal and choral music is usually expected for membership. Repertoire is chosen from a cappella and accompanied choral traditions, and the group tours either nationally or internationally every year.

The Concert Choir is the largest vocal ensemble on the MSU campus. The Choir is open to any MSU student with prior choral experience who enjoys participating and singing in a choral ensemble. Repertoire consists of music from all genres of choral music. The ensemble performs at least two concerts on campus each year and with the Famous Maroon Band during the annual patriotic halftime show.

The Philharmonia is the MSU student orchestra. String students are encouraged to audition for this group as well as the local professional orchestra, The Starkville-MSU Symphony.

All musical ensembles are offered for academic credit and do not constitute an overload fee.

Contact information: Band - (662) 325-2713 Choir - (662) 325-7801 Orchestra - (662) 325-3070