Welcome From the Chair
Welcome to the Department of Music and congratulations on the wisdom of your decision to study with us, which, to appropriate the words of Berthold Auerbach, is to study what "washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." In adding shine and luster, music adds immeasurably to the quality of life.
To those hesitating at the doorway, I invite you inside. Introduce yourself, and let us convince you to wash off some of that dust accumulating on your soul. We can help you find and develop your musical self, whether it leans toward an instrument or to the study of the great composers, those giants on whose shoulders we stand collectively.
The department offers an array of courses in theory, musicology and performance. You may want to study the art song with Susan Youens, perhaps the world’s leading expert on Schubert; Brahms with Peter Smith; cello with Karen Buranskas, winner of many distinguished awards; violin with the accomplished artist Tricia Park, recently first violin with the Maia Quartet.
Perhaps your instrument is your voice. If so, you may work with Georgine Resick, accomplished interpreter of Mozart and Strauss, or with Alexander Blachly, who leads several choral ensembles. Drawn to the keyboard? Study with John Blacklow and Daniel Schlosberg (piano) or Craig Cramer (organ), all three celebrated on their instruments. If you are drawn to 17th- and 18th-century sacred music, you will want to study with Mary Frandsen. If you are thinking about composing, Paul Johnson, who is also an expert on Debussy, Ravel and Stravinsky, is your man.
If the idea of performing in an ensemble appeals to you, there are numerous opportunities, including, but not limited to the Marching Band, Notre Dame Symphony Orchestra, Glee Club, Chorale, Opera Notre Dame, Jazz Band and other smaller chamber ensembles.
I have but grazed the surface of what we have to offer, nor have I been able to mention all the dedicated staff and professionals who work together to assure the ongoing prestige and excitement of music at Notre Dame. For a fuller picture please explore our website and follow the links—as you follow your heart
Louis MacKenzie,
Chair, Department of Music
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