The Department of Music offers a conservatory-like experience within a traditional liberal arts institution—the best of both worlds. Our voice, piano, and organ students have consistently ranked at or near the top of regional and national competitions for many years. Furthermore, our music education majors are frequently sought after by prospective school systems before they reach graduation.

In addition to private study, Shorter music students all participate in departmental ensembles. The Shorter Chorale is an auditioned choir and recognized as one of the best ensembles in the region. Other ensembles include the Shorter Chorus and the new Javanese Gamelan Ensemble.

The Opera Theatre and Musical Theatre each produce two major works each academic year. The fall 2006 production of Sondheim’s Into the Woods was invited to compete at the annual America College Theater Festival, an honor they have earned the past four years. The accomplishments of our students and graduates demonstrate the success of our programs.