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.
Learning Groups
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
Auditions
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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.
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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.
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
Take the Next Step
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701