The Department of Music
Brooks Concert Hall
Phone: 508-793-2296
Fax: 508-793-3894
Primary Contact: Alice Resker
Carol Lieberman, Associate Professor Emerita, Music, has been one of the leading exponents of Baroque violin performance for three decades.
Small Classes Taught by Faculty Mentors
One of the greatest assets of our music department is our faculty. Students have the benefit of studying with award-winning composers, performers, and musicologists in small, intimate classes where there are countless opportunities to explore courses in music theory, composition, history, jazz, music technology, popular music and world music.
Learning experiences take place both inside and outside of the classroom, and foster dynamic interactions between students and faculty. We believe this synthesis of the curricular and cocurricular aids in the development of well-rounded students and enriches their musical journeys.
Prior Performing Arts Center
The College is currently constructing a center devoted to the arts, where students might incorporate the arts into the essence of their everyday lives — and find the inherent connections between study and performance. The new facility will include a 400-seat concert hall and a 200-seat flexible performance space, plus technology to support creative interactions between the arts and other disciplines.
Learn more about the Prior Performing Arts Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the music department at Holy Cross compare with music programs at other colleges?
The Department of Music at Holy Cross is distinctive among nationally ranked liberal arts colleges for its quality, range and robust offerings.
What is the size and what are the credentials of the music department?
The department consists of internationally-renowned composers, scholars, music technology specialists, performers, and conductors.
Faculty members have received three Grammy nominations and awards. In addition, 15 exceptional artist-teachers professionally active in the Boston and Worcester musical communities provide instruction in instrumental and vocal music.
Our courses, which are open to all students (majors and non-majors), attract more than 350 students each semester. Each year, about one quarter of the Holy Cross student body is involved in the department, either though the College Choir, Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, athletic and concert bands, the gamelan, chamber ensembles, private instruction or by taking a class.
Do I have to audition to become a music major?
No, however departmental approval is required. We generally encourage students to keep an open mind about their major until they have been on campus for at least two semesters and taken some music classes. Students interested in pursuing music as a major typically declare at the beginning of their second year at Holy Cross.
Can I also major in another discipline?
Yes, it is possible to major in music alongside another discipline. As always, the sooner you begin planning for a double-major, the better.