John M. Long School of Music
The School of Music provides opportunities for all university students to develop the musical skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become artistic performers and/or intelligent consumers of music.
The School of Music provides opportunities for all university students to develop the musical skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become artistic performers and/or intelligent consumers of music.
The John M. Long School of Music is a vital part of a dynamic, global university.
The School of Music has more than 250 undergraduate and graduate music majors and
undergraduate music minors and more than 30 faculty members who are world-class teachers,
scholars, conductors, composers, and performers.
The School of Music provides opportunities for all university students to develop
the musical skills, knowledge and attitudes needed to become artistic performers and/or
intelligent consumers of music. Music majors are provided with “real-world” educational
experiences designed to prepare them for viable careers in music. Graduate Assistantships
are available working with university bands, university choirs, music education, and
music industry.
The School of Music has a rich performance tradition. More than 15% of the TROY campus
is involved in music study. A comprehensive choral, instrumental, traditional, and
popular music ensemble program provides more than 200 public performances each year
to an audience of more than 250,000 people.
Troy University is a fully accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), an Avid Learning Partner, and is an All-Steinway School.
For additional information, please call us at (334) 670-3322 or email music@troy.edu.
School of Music Calendar
Since 1853, Steinway and Sons pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound, touch, beauty, and investment value. The All-Steinway distinction is a mark of prestige held by few institutions. In February 2015, Troy University was proud to become a member of this elite category by acquiring 29 Steinway pianos, including the first 9-foot and 7-foot sterling silver concert grand pianos in the world.
Being an All-Steinway School reinforces our goal of providing the best of the best to our current students, and, most importantly, it demonstrates our commitment to challenging students academically and providing opportunities for them to excel to their fullest potential.
The All-Steinway Initiative is an indication of Troy University's continuing commitment
to academic excellence.
A Troy Story: Eager Music Students open Treasure Trove of Steinway
Music is part of the universal human condition. Whenever and wherever humans have existed, so have music and entertainment. As a result, opportunities for careers in the music industry can be found far and wide. If you have an artistic vision, passion for music and business awareness, Troy University's Bachelor of Science in Music Industry program can help you refine your skills and prepare you for a wide variety of music industry jobs.
Bachelor of Science in Music Industry
As a music major, you'll have ample opportunities to enhance and share your vocal and instrumental talents. Whether you perform with one of TROY's many instrumental or vocal ensembles, as a music student you'll gain experience through taking part in some of the School of Music's annual, public performances. Students are provided with real-world experiences designed to prepare them for viable careers in music performance, music industry and music education should students decide to pursue education as a double major.
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Graduate with the education and real-world experience you need for a professional career in the music industry with Troy University's specialized MBA. TROY is the only university to offer a Music Industry MBA that's accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). By merging art and business, the TROY music business master's gives you all you need to break into the music industry — and to succeed in this rapidly evolving industry once you're there.
Master of Business Administration - Music Industry
Deepen your expertise in music pedagogy with a Master of Science in Music Education from Troy University's John M. Long School of Music. With an emphasis on either choral or instrumental music education, Troy's M.S. in Music Education is designed for educators who are passionate about their discipline. This program strengthens your teaching techniques while expanding your understanding of choral, instrumental, and general music education. Whether you're shaping young voices in elementary school or leading advanced ensembles at the high school level, you'll gain the skills to inspire, educate, and lead with confidence in P-12 settings.
Master of Science in Music Education
The Troy University Symphony Band, conducted by Dr. Mark J. Walker, is comprised of the top 55 - 63 wind and percussion students in the John M. Long School of Music. The ensemble has an active commissioning schedule and regularly participates in commissioning consortia. In 2011, this premiere group completed its first international tour, performing for enthusiastic audiences in Vancouver and at the Whistler Music Festival in Whistler, Canada.
In March 2014, the Symphony Band received the honor to perform the opening concert at the 80th Annual Convention of the prestigious American Bandmasters Association. The Band also performed for the Alabama Bandmasters Association All State Conference in 2017, and in 2018, the Symphony Band performed at the Southern Division Conference of the College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA). Over the years, the Symphony Band has enjoyed an active recording schedule, and has recently produced their latest compact disc, The Troy University Symphony Band – Live! and has regularly provided demonstration recordings for C.L. Barnhouse, Alfred Publications, TRN and others. Throughout its distinguished history, the Symphony Band has recorded chapters for the acclaimed series “The Heritage of the March” and broadcast its own radio program, “Strike Up the Band!” for twenty years on the Southeastern Public Radio Network.
Since 2001, the Symphony Band has performed under the baton of every living member and inductee of the National Band Associations Hall of Fame of Distinguished Conductors.
The Troy University Symphony Band is open to all university students by audition at the beginning of each semester.
For information regarding band scholarships, auditions, or opportunities to support the band program through the University Foundation, please contact Dr. Mark J. Walker, Director of Bands at mjwalker@troy.edu or phone 334-670-3281. The street address is: 102 Long Hall, Troy University, Troy, AL 36082.
The Troy University Guitar Ensemble was established in 2010. Since this time the ensemble
has performed numerous concerts and has participated in several guitar festivals.
The Guitar Ensemble rehearses weekly and is open to all music major-guitarists in
the School of Music as well as non-music majors that receive the instructor's approval.
A wide range of repertoire consisting of all of the major style periods, as well as
newly commissioned work, are explored and performed.
Please contact Dr. Robert Gibson for more information about the Troy University Guitar Ensemble at rgibson82106@troy.edu.
For over sixty years, the Troy University Collegiate Singers have provided first-rate
performing experiences for students of all majors exploring outstanding repertoire
from a wide variety of historical and cultural styles. Students learn skills in vocal
technique, music reading, ensemble performance and more. Collegiate Singers serves
as ambassadors of the university, performing at important university events, special
school programs, and other regular performances. Collegiate Singers is open to all
university students, with no audition is required; scholarships are available.
Dr. Michael J. Mills, conductor
Founded in 2006, the Troy University Concert Chorale is the premier vocal ensemble
in the John M. Long School of Music. This mixed choir performs challenging classical,
traditional, and contemporary choral repertoire at the highest level. The ensemble
performs regularly throughout the United States, including a Carnegie Hall debut in
New York City and multiple performances at the Alabama Music Educators Association
conference. The group has toured internationally throughout Canada, Germany, and the
Czech Republic. Membership is open by audition to students of all majors; scholarships
are available.
Dr. Michael J. Mills, conductor
Membership in the Troy University Gospels Singers (TUGS) is open to TROY students
from all faiths and backgrounds. The ensemble regularly performs music from the African
American gospel tradition, spirituals, and non-idiomatic choral music primary composed
by African American artists. TUGS has performed across the Southeastern United States,
including performances for the late United States congressman John Robert Lewis and
the Montgomery, Alabama memorial service of the notable civils rights activist Rosa
Parks.
Dr. Henry Terry, conductor
The Troy University Percussion Ensemble was established in the Spring of 2009. Since
that time, the ensemble has performed countless local, regional and national tours,
as well as appearances at international conferences and conventions. The Troy University
Percussion Ensemble is a 2-time winner of the Percussive Arts Society's International
Percussion Ensemble Competition (2012 and 2015); as a result of these wins, the ensemble
performed a 50-minute showcase concert at PASIC 2012 and 2015, in Austin, TX and San
Antonio, TX, respectively. During the Fall 2019 semester, the Troy University Percussion
Ensemble was featured on the PASIC stage for a third time, presenting the “New Music
Literature” session – a 90-minute showcase concert of new compositions for percussion
ensemble.
The Troy University Percussion Ensemble is dedicated to the highest possible level of performance, performing both standard repertoire and new works for percussion and mixed-chamber ensembles. We have established a standard of excellence, which provides amazing performance and collaborative opportunities for our students. Advocates of new music, the ensemble has had the privilege of commissioning with more than 25 composers, and giving the world premiere performance of more than 30 new works for percussion ensemble. The ensemble performs one concert per semester, and often embarks on performance tours throughout the region, during the spring semesters.
If you are interested in more information about the Troy University Percussion Ensemble, please contact Dr. T. Adam Blackstock at tblackstock@troy.edu.
The Troy University College of Arts and Humanities is launching a new interdisciplinary hearing screening initiative that offers free, professional hearing checks beginning Spring 2026. The program was initiated by the Music Industry program and developed through collaboration between the John M. Long School of Music and the Troy University School of Nursing. It is designed to promote long-term hearing health and early identification of potential concerns.
The screenings are open to all College of Arts and Humanities students and faculty.
Participants are welcome to bring a roommate or friend. Screenings will use modern
audiometric screening equipment. Each station will be staffed by trained nursing students
under faculty supervision, providing a fast, professional screening experience.
Fall 2026 screening sessions: (TBA)
Participants are encouraged to attend one session and will receive their results immediately.
By offering screenings every semester, individuals can track their hearing over time
and address any potential issues before they become more serious.
The initiative is supported in partnership by Dr. William Michael Thrasher, Dean of
the College of Arts and Humanities, and Dr. Hui Ting Yang, Director of the John M.
Long School of Music. The program was developed in collaboration with Dr. Rebecca
Jo Allen-Jones and Dr. Wade Forehand of the Troy University School of Nursing.
This initiative reflects Troy University's commitment to student and faculty wellness
and interdisciplinary collaboration, creating meaningful partnerships between the
arts and health sciences while supporting community success.
For more information or questions about the screenings, please contact the John M. Long School of Music
Participating Conductors (limit of 10) will each receive 30 minutes of rehearsal time with the Troy University Symphony Band, with live commentary from the clinicians. Additionally, Conductors will conduct the Symphony Band in concert. Auditors will be present in the rehearsal and observe the Conductors and Clinicians work, take notes, and ask questions. Both Conductors and Auditors (Auditors may attend all sessions but not conduct the large ensemble) will take part in Discussion Sessions.
Clinicians (TBA):
Professional Development and Troy University Master of Music Credit Available (please email jslarson@troy.edu for more information).
Repertoire (TBA):
Conductors are responsible for purchasing their individual scores.
Schedule (TBA):
Guest Clinicians/Conductors (TBA):
Distinguished Composer in Residence (TBA):
IMPORTANT DATES AND INFORMATION (TBA):
THE AUDITION APPLICATION
Students wishing to apply to participate in the S.E.U.S. Honor Bands will need to
record and upload a video audition to be considered for one of the four honor bands.
The video will need to be uploaded as "unlisted" to YouTube where it will be evaluated
by Troy University School of Music faculty members. Please read the instructions below
carefully and thoughtfully. If you have any questions, contact us at seus@troy.edu.
Audition Recording Tips and Protocols:
BEFORE YOU BEGIN - CHECK YOUR EQUIPMENT
1. You may use whatever video device you have available (video camera, phone, tablet,
computer, etc). Be sure to select a device that captures the highest quality audio.
2. When positioning the camera, be sure that you can be seen clearly in the video.
3. Before recording, test the audio level and picture quality.
Record Your Audition
1. The audition video recording is to be one continuous take with no pauses or edits.
2. Begin the video with a short personal introduction. Be sure to include: your first
and last name, grade level, full name of your high school, and your home town.
3. Following your personal introduction, play the excerpt provided.
NOTE: Percussionists have multiple excerpts. Please repeat the process for each excerpt
(including the personal introduction).
Finalize and Upload Your Video
1. View your completed video in its entirety to ensure that it includes all of the
required components and your finest performance of the required excerpt(s).
2. Audition should be posted as an unlisted video on YouTube. This instructional video
can help with the process: Uploading Videos to YouTube
3. Confirm that the video has been uploaded and is "unlisted"
AUDITION RESULTS
Once all audition applications have been received, the band directors will receive
a recommendation request list. Once recommendation lists have been returned, the selected
applicant list will be posted below. Additionally, all students who complete and submit
audition application forms will be notified via email if they are selected.
REGISTRATION/PAYMENT
Students who have been selected to participate will be required to register to confirm
their participation and pay a $100 non-refundable registration fee. This fee covers
participation in the event, a t-shirt, and a medal for each participant. Please note
this fee does NOT cover food, hotel, transportation, etc.
Registration is completed individually, however payments can be made as a group via
school check or credit card. Once participants have been selected and posted, we will
notify the band directors with instructions for registration when paying as a group.
Please make school checks or money orders payable to "TROY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION". Personal checks will NOT be accepted.
Chair Placement Process Information (TBA):
Chair placement will be determined by a short on-site audition with Troy University
School of Music Faculty following the opening meeting on February 4, 2027. This audition
will not change the participant's assigned ensemble; it will be used solely for chair
placement within their assigned ensemble.
Students will be allowed to warm-up prior to their chair placement audition using
Claudia Crosby Theater. They will then proceed to their respective audition rooms
located in either Smith Hall or Long Hall. Exact locations will be posted around the
building upon arrival.
Chair placement results will be posted around the buildings after the afternoon masterclasses.
On-Campus Eateries
Troy University has a number of dining options throughout campus. A complete listing
of the options can be found here.
Lodging Recommendations:
Parents, guardians, and/or band directors are responsible for making any and all lodging
accommodations for students attending the High School S.E.U.S. Clinic and Honor Bands.
All reservations are to be made directly with the hotel.
Additionally, transportation to and from the hotel is the responsibility of the band
director and/or chaperones of each student. Please be sure to let whatever hotel you
choose know that you are participating in the S.E.U.S. Clinic and Honor Band. For
your convenience, we have compiled a list of hotels located on or near U.S. 231 in
Troy:
Please note that there will be other events taking place in Troy during this time. We recommend making hotel reservation early knowing that it is easier to cancel an unneeded room than it is to create a new reservation so close to the event.
Do you know a current high school student who is interested in pursuing Music Education as a career? Are you an in-service music teacher looking for a fun professional development opportunity?
Join us for this year's “Troy University Music Education Day” on September 30, 2026!
Come join us for a day of workshops and sessions, tour our wonderful campus, and meet current students and faculty!
The event is free; more details will be available soon.
Troy University Band Day will take place on Saturday, November 21, 2026 in Veteran's
Memorial Stadium.
The “Sound of the South” Marching Band invites local high school students to experience
the day in the life of a college marching band! Students will rehearse with SOTS members,
experience Troy gameday traditions, and perform alongside the “Sound of the South”
at a Troy football game.
A detailed schedule of events and information about registration, ticketing, and logistics will be available closer to the event. If you have questions about the event, please email Dr. Jerianne Larson at jslarson@troy.edu.
The Troy University Summer Music Leadership Camp will take place from June 14-18 2026.
These camps are open to incoming 8th through 12th grade students. Camp will consist
of Drum Major, Dance, Majorette, Marching Percussion Ensemble, and Color Guard classes.
Summer Music Leadership Camp Schedule
Class Descriptions:
Marching Percussion Ensemble- Campers will play in a marching band drumline throughout
the week. Marching fundamentals will be included. Enrollment is open to all percussionists.
Majorette- campers will focus on individual and group twirling techniques throughout
the week. Marching fundamentals for twirlers will be included. Enrollment is open
to all twirlers.
Color Guard- campers will focus on individual and ensemble techniques featuring a
variety of color equipment. Marching fundamentals for color guard will be included.
Enrollment is open to all color guard students.
Dance Line- campers will focus on individual and ensemble techniques featuring a variety
of dance styles. Marching fundamentals for dancers will be included. Enrollment is
open to all students interested in dance line.
Drum Major- campers will focus on conducting, marching fundamentals, vocal commands,
and leadership techniques. Enrollment is open to all future or current drum majors.
Summer Camp Scholarships:
The "Sound of the South" Summer Leadership Camps offer a limited amount of full scholarships
to attend the 2026 camp. This scholarship will cover the cost of camp tuition, room,
and board. The purpose of this scholarship is to provide assistance to those worthy students
who would like to attend the camp with the intention of attending Troy University
after high school.
Scholarship applications must be submitted on or before May 18, 2026. We will not
accept any scholarship applications after the May 18th deadline
2026 Summer Camp Scholarship Recipients
Who May Apply:
Any student who is entering 8th grade in the fall of 2026 through a current junior
in high school (will be a senior in the fall of 2026) may apply for this scholarship.
The student will fill out the top portion of the application form and the band director
will fill out the rest. Either the student or the band director may send in the application.
Scholarship applications must be postmarked on or before May 18, 2026. We will not accept any scholarship applications after the May 18, 2026 postmark deadline.
Please email applications to the address below:
Dr. Mark Walker, Director
"Sound of the South" Summer Concert Band / Leadership Camp
Troy University
102 Long Hall
Troy, AL 36082
Registration Instructions:
Registration is open until June 1, 2026. All applications, talent releases, and medical
forms should be completed by mail-in to the following address:
University Conference Services
Summer Music Camp
229 Trojan Center
Troy University
Troy, AL 36082
2026 Summer Music Camp Registration Form
2026 Summer Camp Talent Release Form
2026 Summer Camp Medical Form
Additional Information:
-Students should bring loose fitting clothing that will be comfortable enough to wear
outside.
-Students staying on campus should bring everything they need to stay in a dorm room
(bed sheets, pillow, toiletries, etc).
-Students are responsible for providing their own instruments during the camp.
-Students should bring their own folding wire music stands.
-The school of music will not furnish instruments other than concert percussion instruments.
-Marching percussion (drumline) students should bring their own instruments, stands,
sticks, and mallets. The school of music will not provide any of these materials.
-Drum major students will need to bring a plain white t-shirt, black shirts, and black
socks.
The Southeastern United States Middle School Honor Band Clinic will take place on
November 19-20, 2026. Accepted students will receive complimentary admission to the
Troy vs. Georgia Southern game on November 21, 2026. More details about this event
will be available soon.
MUSIC STANDS: Each student needs to bring their OWN folding wire stand!!!!!!!
Accommodations - Parents, Guardians, and/or Band Directors will make their own hotel reservations for the students in Troy. They will not be made by the University. You should choose where you want to stay and call that particular motel for a reservation. Please make note, there will be other events taking place in Troy during this time. You will want to make reservations early and cancel rooms as needed.
Econo Lodge – 334-566-7799
Motel 6 – 334-670-0012
Scottish Inns – 334-566-4090
Quality Inn – 334-566-1150
Courtyard Marriott – 334-566-0540
Best Western – 334-566-1585
Hampton Inn – 334-807-5900
Days Inn – 334-566-1630
Home 2 Suites – 334-635-1225
All are conveniently located on US 231 in Troy. In each case, make sure that the hotel knows you are participating in the honor band at Troy University. Transportation to and from the hotels is the responsibility of the band director or parent of the participant.
Registration Fee - The Honor Band registration fee of $70.00 includes instruction and a medal. You may send a school check, or individuals may pay online once registration becomes available. No personal checks will be accepted. Personal checks cannot be accepted and will be returned which will delay the student's registration process.
SCHOOL CHECKS MUST BE MADE PAYABLE TO "TROY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION"
NO REFUNDS CAN BE ISSUED
Students should bring spending money for all meals. For added convenience, there is
a food court located in the student center on the university campus.
The following material provides both general and detailed information on Hearing Health. The information is provided by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). As a musician, maintaining your hearing health is critical and is your responsibility to preserve.
NASM-PAMA Advisories on Hearing Health
The following material provides both general and detailed information on Neuromusculoskeletal
Health. This information is provided by the National Association of Schools of Music
(NASM). As a musician, maintaining your neuromusculoskeletal health is critical and
is your responsibility to preserve.
NASM-PAMA Advisories on Neuromusculoskeletal and Vocal Health
The following material provides both general and detailed information on Vocal Health.
This information is provided by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).
As a musician, maintaining your vocal health is critical and is your responsibility
to preserve.
NASM-PAMA Advisories on Neuromusculoskeletal and Vocal Health
April 6, 2026
