Music Department

Annual Music Events

North Star Music Festival

Held in the fall, this festival celebrates the newest music and brings to campus renowned artists who collaborate with Music Department faculty and students. A new composition is commissioned each year for one of our large ensembles and is premiered on the final concert.

Jazz Festival

Traditionally held the last weekend in February, “JazzFest” brings in nationally renowned artists every year. It includes a day of performances by high school and middle school jazz combos and big bands with a personalized clinic for each group. The guest artist also presents a clinic and performs with Truman jazz groups on an evening concert.

Honor Band Day

High school students from Missouri and other states visit campus and participate in a day-long musical experience that culminates in concerts with Truman’s Wind Symphony.

Piano Festival

This annual event features a guest artist who performs on campus and conducts a master class for Truman piano majors. This festival includes a Piano Fellowship Competition for high-school seniors interested in pursuing a degree in music with piano as their primary instrument.

Gold Medal Competition

The Gold Medal Competition invites all members of Truman’s Music Department to compete against one another in their sections, such as woodwinds against woodwinds and strings against strings.