Modern theory of music perception posited by 1700s potter
A new book by Carmel Raz focuses on the work of John Holden, an 18th-century potter who also wrote an influential treatise on musical theory.
Read more
Performance is a fundamental part of Cornell’s cultural life. The Department of Music encourages music-making through a wide array of chamber and large ensembles, as well as its offerings in private lessons and directed coaching by members of the music faculty. Master classes, degree and non-degree recitals, contemporary music concerts, and an annual concerto competition supplement the music department’s concert offerings.
Performance Links
Audition Updates
Click here for the latest information on auditions for ensembles and individual lessons.
Featured Ensemble Performance: Cornell Chorus, Glee Club, and Symphony Orchestra April 26, 2025
The program includes Bach’s uplifting Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme, Dvořák’s triumphant Te Deum—featuring soloists Rachel Schutz, soprano, and Jean Bernard Cerin, baritone—Brahms’ lyrical Schicksalslied. Performed by the Cornell Glee Club and Chorus, and the Cornell Symphony Orchestra, led by Joe Lerangis and Gabriela Gomez Estevez.
Music events
Aug
05
Tuesday
07:30 PM
Forte | Piano 2025: Brahms, Schumann, and Schubert Lieder
Schwartz Center for Performing Arts
Kiplinger Theater
Aug
06
Wednesday
07:30 PM
Forte | Piano 2025: Former Students of Malcolm Bilson
Schwartz Center for Performing Arts
Kiplinger Theater
Aug
08
Friday
07:30 PM
Forte | Piano 2025: Conversations for Two
Schwartz Center for Performing Arts
Kiplinger Theater
Aug
09
Saturday
07:30 PM
Forte | Piano 2025: Women at the Keyboard
Schwartz Center for Performing Arts
Kiplinger Theater
Aug
11
Monday
05:00 AM
Organ Recital: The 715 four-note chords possible in one octave: CU Music
Sage Chapel
Chapel
Aug
18
Monday
12:00 PM
CU Music New Student Open House
Lincoln Hall
Music news
Festival celebrates pianos in history, history in pianos
Musicians, scholars and instrument makers will gather at Cornell Aug. 5-10 for Forte | Piano 2025: Crafting Soundscapes, a conference and festival exploring dimensions of historical keyboard practice from performance and scholarship to instrument making and listening.
Read more
Dallas Morse Coors Concert Series announces 2025-26 Season
The season will include explorations of timeless classics, as well as concerts highlighting new frontiers in music.
Read more
‘End of a hopeful era’: Cornell expert reflects on Wilson and Stone legacies
The deaths of Brian Wilson, co-founder of The Beach Boys, and funk and soul pioneer Sly Stone, of Sly and the Family Stone, mark the end of a pivotal era in music, says professor Judith Peraino.
Read more
From posters to precedent, humanities scholars showcase their research
Projects spanned topics from Confederate cemeteries to Korean textiles.
Read more
Gift creates new Dallas Morse Coors Concert Series at Cornell
A $2 million gift from the Dallas Morse Coors Foundation for the Performing Arts will rename the Cornell Concert Series and allow it to continue its efforts to bring world-class musicians to campus.
Read more
Ariana Kim featured on PBS NewsHour's arts and culture series, CANVAS
Ariana Kim was featured on PBS NewsHour's arts and culture series, CANVAS.
Read more
Rafael Torralvo da Silva Defends Dissertation
The department warmly congratulates Rafael Torralvo da Silva, who successfully defended his PhD dissertation in music and sound studies on April 21, 2025.
Read more