Happenings
There’s always something exciting happening at the College of Music! Stay informed and get to know our community through our accomplished students, alumni, faculty, supporters and college leadership.
Recent news
Dean’s Downbeat
Celebrate + aspire
“At the College of Music’s recent Eklund Opera gala, Chancellor Justin Schwartz described the magic of music as a hallmark of human connection; of a civilized society; and as its own kind of renewable energy. As I reflect on the first couple months of 2025, I’m struck by the countless ways in which our students, alumni, faculty, staff and supporters embody these values. In these disorienting times, I’m heartened that our mission is more relevant than ever—as is my commitment to continue to celebrate and support our students and colleagues in their transformative work and artistic aspirations.” MORE
Browse previous editions of the Dean’s Downbeat,
a regular communiqué from Dean John Davis.
Noteworthy media mentions
Many musicians suffer playing-related pain and stress. A retiring CU professor says wellness is the solution (June 11, 2025, CPR News)
Colorado Public Radio spotlights the impact and increasing relevance of the College of Music’s Musicians’ Wellness Program, one of the first of its kind.
CU NOW explores new opera by Mark Adamo (June 8, 2025, Sharps & Flatirons)
Every summer, CU Boulder’s New Opera Workshop (CU NOW) hosts an extended workshop where students and alumni work with living composers and librettists to develop and perform their music over a few weeks. This summer, Mark Adamo’s new opera about opera conducting and producing legend Sarah Caldwell will present semi-staged workshop performances of excerpts.
‘I’m never going to stop’: Facing NEA cuts, a young composer and an unusual music venue turn hurt into action (June 3, 2025, CPR News)
Undergraduate composer Holly McMahon (BM ’26) was selected for a residency at The Tank Center for Sonic Arts in Rangely, Colorado. Learn more about the residency, also involving double bassist Asher Dorbin (BM ’26); as well as the collaboration between CU Boulder and The Tank, and the impact of federal funding cuts.
