Student Opportunities

We offer a wide range of performance opportunities for all interests and skill levels. From classical and contemporary to jazz, funk and experimental music, our ensembles let students explore diverse genres while refining their musicianship and creativity. Guided by expert faculty directors, you’ll collaborate with peers, perform on and off campus, and gain valuable experience in live performance, improvisation, composition and digital production. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of a rock or jazz group, the precision of a chamber ensemble, or the innovation of digital and experimental music, there’s a place for you to create, perform and grow.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, SUNY Oneonta offers both group and private music lessons open to all majors. Group lessons (MUSC 2600–2680) introduce students to instruments, while private lessons (MUSC 3700–3771) provide individualized instruction to refine technique and explore advanced repertoire.

Long noted for his expertise in the music of Spain and Latin America, Dr. Adam Kent leads faculty-led trips where students in private lessons and ensembles can participate in international summer programs, masterclasses, ensemble coaching and concerts. Recent trips to Spain, the Philippines and Colombia have provided students with hands-on experience, cultural immersion and the chance to study and perform works by international composers.

SUNY Oneonta also has a long-running annual trip to Anaheim, Calif., for the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show. Known as the world’s largest not-for-profit music expo and trade show, NAMM brings together leaders, innovators, experts, artists and creators from the music products, pro audio and sound, and entertainment technology industries.

SUNY Oneonta offers student travel grants that make it possible for many students to take advantage of these opportunities at a very low cost.

One of the best ways to get hands-on experience – and meet friends who share your passion for music – is to join one of our many music-themed student clubs!

Performing Arts Clubs

• The Drag 'N Rolls Drumline offers hands-on experience in marching percussion and opportunities to perform at campus and community events, athletic games, parades and formal ceremonies. This is a great way to showcase your musical skills, connect with other students and represent the Red Dragons on and off campus.
• Apollo Music Club members perform in annual showcases, attend guest lectures, engage in service projects and connect with a vibrant community of singers and instrumentalists.
• Let your voice be your instrument with the Oneonta Acappella Council! Two campus a cappella ensembles, Hooked on Tonics and Pitch Slapped, offer the chance to arrange and direct music, perform at campus events, and compete against other college a cappella groups.
• The Mask & Hammer theatre club is an outlet for theatrical creativity and growth, producing plays, musicals and experimental theater projects each semester.

Music and Entertainment Industry Clubs

• The Music Industry Club (MIC) provides opportunities to engage directly with the music industry on local, regional, national and global levels. Members can attend trips, conference and concerts, participate in panel discussions and alumni events, review and fund student proposals, and collaborate to produce a student album under SUNY Oneonta’s Red Dragon Records label.
• WIRE-TV exists to enhance skills and experience in the field of video, audio and television production through interaction and hands-on experience by utilizing professional equipment, video-editing software and through shared experiences with other organizations and SUNY Oneonta. If you're interested in a career in music video, this club is a must-join!
• WONY 90.9 FM is an alternative, non-commercial, student-operated radio station funded by the Student Association of SUNY Oneonta. Established in 1962 and located in the basement of Hunt Union, WONY plays a variety of music and has over two dozen live DJs per week.