Murray State Music
A Reputation of Excellence

The Murray State University (MSU) Department of Music has been a member of the National Association of Schools of Music since 1936 and enjoys a longstanding reputation of excellence. Graduates with degrees in music from Murray State perform as opera singers, popular recording artists, professional symphony musicians, jazz educators, songwriters, television music writers, public school music teachers, university music department deans, instrument technicians, church musicians and college music teachers.

Within an academic framework, the department provides a comprehensive music education for the aspiring professional teacher, performer or composer. Courses and performance opportunities for the non-major seek to involve students and other members of the community as participants in the music-making process. Interaction with the university community provides rich leadership experiences for music students, who lead musical events such as the All-Campus Sing, a friendly competition involving several social groups throughout MSU's campus.

Continuing the university's tradition of community involvement, The Campus Lights music production, local church choirs, social group ensembles and chamber groups all interact with the MSU Music Department. Physical facilities, resources and personnel contribute to the department's reputation as the musical center of the region.

The Department of Music offers bachelor of music, bachelor of arts in music, bachelor of science in music, and master of music education degrees. The department also sponsors the wind ensemble, pep band, marching band, jazz band, orchestra, concert band and choirs. Membership in these groups is open not only to music majors, but also to all students with an interest in music.

Dr. Pamela Wurgler is the Interim Chair of the Music Department and is an Associate Professor of Music Education at MSU. Dr. Wurgler holds degrees from Baylor University, the University of Cincinnati's College–Conservatory of Music and Ohio State University. She has sung professionally in operas in the United States and in Europe.

"I would say the two things that are most compelling about our department are the performing ensembles and the level of performance that comes from our faculty," says Wurgler. "We have about 180 music majors, and I believe one thing that draws students to MSU is the high-caliber instruction and level of education that they will receive."

"Students who are entering into graduate school seem to have no trouble, and we have about 100 percent placement for our students who want to teach," she concludes.

Wurgler, along with many of her collegues at MSU, performs frequently in recitals, oratorios and operas in the area.

	BACK	NEXT