The Music department invites you to join our community of music creators, performers, and improvisors and explore ways music can make a difference in your life, your community and the world.
Auditions for Spring 2022 entry will be held on 11/20/21.
Auditions for Fall 2022 entry will be held on 2/5/22, 3/5/22 and 4/9/22.
We are a fully accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music and the American Music Therapy Association.
Listen Forward on YouTube
Listen Forward is a video series led by an interdisciplinary team of faculty and students whose aim is to capture the essence of music in New Paltz through a curatorial process of exploration that deepens our understanding of the town we live in.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Build a foundation of musicianship based on performing, composing, interpreting, and improvising.
- Engage in a diverse range of multi-ethnic musical styles through study and participation that gives students a broad understanding of cultural, historical, political, and health-wellness contexts.
- Work effectively as a contributing member of a small team and larger group.
- Cultivate organizational and team-building skills to create and serve future communities.
- Synthesize foundational skills and knowledge to empower creative risk-taking in developing artistic career paths.
Meet Our Full-Time Faculty

Phyllis Chen
Composition, Recording and Electronic Music

Katie Down
Graduate Music Therapy

Mark Dziuba
Jazz Studies

Adam Fontana
Symphonic Band
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Christiana Fortune-Reader
Violin and Viola

Edward Lundergan
Choral Ensembles

Kathleen Murphy
Graduate Music Therapy
Alex Peh
Associate Chair, Piano

Susan Seligman
Cello
Sight-singing and Ear-training

Kent Smith
Voice
Heather Wagner
Graduate Music Therapy