Music Experiential Learning

a SEMO music student practices violin during a private lesson

At SEMO, you don't just learn music. You live it. You perform it. SEMO musicians walk on campus as a student and graduate as a professional.

SEMO’s Department of Music offers many ways to gain real-world experience while earning your degree. You’ll perform in front of live audiences, choose ensembles that match the style of music you want to play, and build meaningful connections with fellow students and faculty, forming a professional network that lasts a lifetime.

Learning Groups

  • SEMO band students play their instruments during an event

    Band

    SEMO Bands offer options for majors and non-majors. You don't just play in concert halls. SEMO students march, record in our performance labs, and learn to perform in events and spaces all across campus and beyond.

  • SEMO choir students dressed up for performance sing for an audience

    Choir

    SEMO Choirs have variety of choral ensembles for major and non-majors. In our choirs, you can sing with the symphony, perform major works, and sing with other students who take it seriously. SEMO wants to hear your voice among our amazing community.

  • a SEMO orchestra student smiles at the photographer while playing her violin

    Orchestra

    In the SEMO Orchestra, you'll play a wide range of pieces under leaders who are committed to innovation. You collaborate with other large musical ensembles in addition to weekly coaching, solos, and real performances in our world-class venues.

  • two SEMO music students perform at a venue for SEMO Jazz Band

    Small Ensembles

    Jazz Band, string quartets, Choral trios, and so much more. In a small ensemble, every note you play matters. Small Ensembles are available for all students and offer unique variety in every group. Find your group and let's make something special together.

Performance Labs

SEMO provides performance spaces including Bedell Hall, Shuck Recital Hall, the Show-Me-Center, and Houck Stadium. Gain teaching experience in classrooms long before you graduate, and have your compositions performed and recorded on campus! These aren't just classrooms. These are venues where real performances happen.
Explore the Labs

Jam Session and SEMO Gigging Project

We’re serious about our music students getting real experience. As a music student, you’ll have opportunities to perform in jam sessions and as part of the SEMO Gigging Project at local businesses and community venues. You’ll play in small groups with classmates in front of live audiences, including lounge patrons, restaurant guests, and community listeners, gaining hands-on experience performing, collaborating, and working in professional industry settings.
Contact Dr. Brito for Information

Experiential Learning Through Teaching & Leadership

Music Education students teach in real classrooms starting their first year. You'll assist with ensemble instruction, lead small group rehearsals, and support music teachers in local schools. This builds your confidence and professional skills before you graduate. Upper-level students join the Student Leadership Program, taking leadership roles in department ensembles, outreach initiatives, and community arts partnerships. You'll develop organizational, communication, and instructional skills in real-world contexts.
Contact Dr. Potter for Information

Auditions

  • a music student hopeful auditions for a spot in a class at SEMO

    Music Major Auditions

    Audition for ensembles in your area as a SEMO music student. We'll place you where you can grow alongside other students in the music program. This is where your degree takes shape. 

    Go to Music Majors Auditions

  • a group of SEMO students play together to auditon for an ensemble

    Ensemble Auditions

    Sign up to audition for our ensembles. They are open to music majors and non music majors. You get to perform in concerts, develop skills, and share their music with the university and community. 

    Go to Ensemble Auditions

Missouri's Only Arts-Dedicated Campus

With more than 100 performances each year, professional venues, and faculty who perform professionally, we have an entire campus of students and staff dedicated to creating art. Most campuses have performing arts programs; SEMO's River Campus is built for the performing arts.

Learn about SEMO's River Campus

What Happens at SEMO

You rehearse with faculty who perform professionally. You play in real venues with real audiences. You tour regionally. You premiere new pieces. You get feedback from master artists. Your peers push you to be better. Within your first semester, you've performed multiple times with a wide range of opportunities. Before graduation, you've got a portfolio and connections that actually matter in the music world.

Learn about the Department of Music

 

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Take the Next Step

Music

Contact Us

Location

River Campus Seminary, 254

Mailing Address

One University Plaza, MS 7800
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701