Across the nation, K-12 schools and universities are investing in music education programs, and at Mississippi State University, alumni support has propelled MSU’s music program to new heights. Over the past two years, MSU and its alumni and friends have helped equip music students with cutting-edge facilities, a new degree program and state-of-the-art equipment to set them up for success.

In 2022, MSU celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of its 37,000-square-foot Music Building on Hardy Road. Located next to the Kent Sills Band Hall, this modern facility offers invaluable resources for students and faculty, including soundproof practice rooms, a recording studio, a recital hall and an array of spaces designed to enhance learning and performance.

Daniel Stevens, head of the Department of Music, emphasized how this facility inspires shared growth and innovation: “The beauty of our new music complex is that it intensifies the drive toward collective success, encouraging faculty and students to collaborate in research and creative activities.”

Building on this momentum, MSU launched a Bachelor of Music in Performance degree in 2023 to meet the growing demand for creative skills in today’s workforce. This program prepares students for advanced graduate studies in music or professional careers as performers and studio teachers, giving them a competitive edge in the music industry.

“This new degree underscores MSU’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists. Our goal is to empower our students with knowledge and practical experience, ensuring they leave MSU as well-rounded professionals ready to make a mark in the global music arena,” said Teresa Jayroe, dean of the College of Education.

In 2024, MSU achieved a significant milestone by becoming an All-Steinway School. This esteemed title is awarded to conservatories, colleges, universities and schools that exclusively utilize pianos crafted by Steinway & Sons for practice, teaching and performances. This honor, shared by less than 250 institutions globally, underscores the university’s commitment to offering students advanced learning experiences and technologies crucial for success.

MSU’s All-Steinway Initiative began in 2012 but was formally launched in 2014 with an estate gift from the late Scarvia Bateman Anderson, a 1945 MSU alumna. Various alumni and friends supported the initiative with private gifts over the years, culminating in a final contribution from longtime MSU supporters, Bob and Kathy Olsen. Their gift of seven upright pianos completed MSU’s Steinway collection, complementing previous gifts that funded three grand pianos and contributions toward a fourth.

Rosângela Sebba, a 2023 Steinway Teacher Hall of Fame inductee and MSU professor of piano and music theory, reflected on the impact of this achievement: “The generosity of our alumni impacts everyone in our department. Each year, around 1,000 students will benefit from the Steinway pianos, including those enrolled in our community music school, as well as musicians throughout the region.”

Further supporting music education, alumni Ronald J. and Gene Gunn Oswalt established the Ronald J. and Gene Gunn Oswalt Endowed Scholarship in July 2024. This scholarship, housed within the College of Education, assists students pursuing degrees in music education, helping future generations of educators and artists receive the financial support they need to succeed.

The scholarship reflects the Oswalts’ dedication to MSU’s mission. Ronald Oswalt, a 1973 MSU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in music education, understands the opportunities and challenges of a music career. Through their support, the Oswalts help ensure that MSU students have the resources necessary to pursue their goals.

Mississippi State University’s commitment to music education shines through these recent advancements, each made possible by the unwavering support of alumni and friends. With the new music facility, degree program, achievement of All-Steinway status and newly endowed scholarship support, MSU is setting the stage for its music students to excel both today and in the future.