Welcome to the Hurley School of Music! Musicians at Centenary College study in an all-undergraduate environment. This focus on undergraduates means that all Centenary music students have many opportunities to perform as soloists, lead groups as a conductor, participate in ensembles, or act in stage roles. When students graduate from Centenary, their music résumés are full of quality experiences that prepare them for careers or graduate school. Centenary students who are not majoring in music still have many of the same opportunities for participation in ensembles and performances.

Here are some of the things you can do at the Hurley School of Music:

If you are a singer...

Be in our excellent choral groups, Centenary College Choir and Camerata. Compete as a soloist at the conferences of the National Association of Teachers of Singing. Vie for a win in the Hurley Concerto/Aria competition, where winners perform with the Hurley Orchestra. Immerse yourself in a special concentration in sacred music, composition, performance, or choral music. Study three semesters of conducting in the choral music concentration and apply for entry into Centenary’s MAT program to become a music teacher with a master’s degree. Audition for a role in a theater production or in the School of Music’s own Singer’s Workshop. Study in our music technology courses and collaborate with film students from the Communication Department. Intern in a local church music program and hone your leadership skills.

If you are a pianist or organist...

Learn to be a sensitive accompanist as well as a performer, a skill that will always be useful in the future. Compete as a soloist in the Monroe Symphony Competition, or in Centenary’s own Hurley Concerto/Aria competition, where winners perform with the Hurley Orchestra. Audition to receive a scholarship as an accompanist for the Centenary College Choir, and tour internationally with that organization, building your resume as a performer. Immerse yourself in a special concentration in sacred music, composition, or performance. Or choose to study in our choral music concentration and apply for entry into Centenary’s MAT program to become a music teacher with a master’s degree. Play new music composed by students in our composition studio or enjoy learning to play the harpsichord or organ.

If you are an instrumentalist...

Be a part of the Hurley Orchestra or study chamber music in a small group. Try being a member of the Percussion Ensemble, or take guitar lessons. Play in our ad hoc Jazz Ensemble, led by a local jazz professional. Compete to win the Hurley Concerto/Aria competition and play a solo with the orchestra. Immerse yourself in a special concentration in composition or performance. Play new music by students in our composition studio, or compose something yourself that could have a live performance. Study in music technology courses and collaborate with film students from the Communication Department. Intern in a local studio, or be a part of the pit ensemble for a local theater production.

We have opportunities for vocal, keyboard and instrumental students. We want to give you the freedom to improve and be successful, while helping you tailor a personal experience to achieve your goals.