The JMU School of Music offers a variety of different programs and events for different interests! We have offerings for individuals looking for more musical opportunities, for school programs looking to expand their students' experiences, and offerings for the community to be involved in different ways, from learning music themselves to supporting our local music ensembles.

For Individuals

Music Major Preview Day

Junior Audition Clinic PhotoThis free one-day event is designed to provide information about what it's like to be a music major at a university in a friendly and non-threatening environment.

Learn more about Music Major Preview Day.


JMU Lab Band

Concert Band rehearsingThe JMU Lab Band encourages the technical and musical development of band students in the Shenandoah Valley. This is a fun and friendly introduction to ensemble collaboration and musicianship for grades 7-10 with a minimum of 1 year's experience. 

Learn more about JMU Lab Band


JMU Jazz High School Combo Workshop

Saxophonist performing with ensemble This free one-day event for high school students is for those interested in developing and improving improvisational skills. Participants will work with JMU Jazz Studies faculty and current students, as well as other high school students, in a non-threatening coaching environment for every skill level from beginner to advanced improvisers.

Learn more about the JMU Jazz High School Combo Workshop


Piano Day

Piano student taking piano lessonsJMU Piano Day includes mini masterclasses with internationally-known piano faculty, workshop sessions, and a performance opportunity in the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts Recital Hall!

Learn more about Piano Day.


Tromblow'in

Trombone student looking at instrumentTromblow'in is an annual trombone festival that gives trombonists of all ages and abilities a day of workshops, concerts, and clinics with professionals from around the state and country. 

Learn more about Tromblow'in.


Spring String Thing

Spring String ThingJoin us May 24-26, 2024! This year will mark the 47th year for this highly popular program designed to provide enrichment for middle and high school string students.

Learn more about Spring String Thing.


Summer Band Camps

Marching band on fieldYour summer music experience begins here! You can be part of one of our 5 unique camps—Concert Band, Drum Major, Marching Band, Percussion, or Colorguard! June 25-29, 2024.

Learn more about Summer Band Camps.


Vocal Arts Camp

Students singing around a pianoThe JMU Vocal Arts Camp is a celebration of choral singing, community, and lifelong friendship through music. Join us July 16-20, 2024!

Learn more about Vocal Arts Camp.


Kodály Teacher Training

Teacher group smiling for photoJames Madison University is proud to offer Kodály Teacher Training (Level I) here on our campus. It is endorsed by the Organization of American Kodály educators and is held during the summer, when those actively teaching in the field can join us. 

Learn more about Kodály Teacher Training.


Flute Fling

Flute choir rehearsingThe JMU Flute Club and the School of Music host Flute Fling every two years in the Spring. This event is a fun and informative day of flute activities presented and sponsored by the students of the JMU Flute Club and is geared towards flutists of all ages, teachers, band directors, and flute aficionados! JMU Flute Fling is currently on hiatus. Please check back for more information. 

Learn more about Flute Fling.

For School Programs

ChoralFest

Chorus members singingThe JMU ChoralFest is held in September, when over 200 singers of high school and college levels rehearse together on the Forbes Center Concert Hall stage for two days, culminating in a final festival performance. During the weekend, visiting high school students rehearse alongside members of the JMU Chorale. They will have the opportunity to interact with college students from different majors & backgrounds, experience matrix sessions for vocal technique, receive information and ask questions pertaining to collegiate music study, and explore the JMU campus.

Learn more about ChoralFest.


Parade of Champions

High school marching band member shaking Duke Dog's handThe annual JMU Parade of Champions is a marching band competition featuring over 45 bands from Virginia and beyond!

Learn more about Parade of Champions.


High School Choral Invitational

Choral DirectorThe JMU High School Choral Invitational is a one-day 'side-by-side' choral festival co-sponsored by the JMU American Choral Directors Association and University Choruses. This event centers on a range of specific ensembles (SSAA & TTBB - 3 pieces per ensemble) with an SATB finale. The day includes matrix sessions, question and answer periods, the opportunity to visit the JMU campus and perform in the renowned Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, as well as meet and share with collegiate choral singers. 

Learn more about the High School Choral Invitational.

For the Community

Music Academy

Piano students learning pianoDesigned for beginners and developing learners, Music Academy classes are tailored for adults to make music in a fun, no-pressure environment!

We currently offer group classes on guitar, piano, and voice. These recreational music classes meet on the JMU campus and are open to JMU faculty, staff, students, and adults of the local community. 

Classes are offered in full sessions or half sessions depending on the theme or instrument. 

Learn more about Music Academy.


Sensory-Friendly Music Events

sensory-friendly-music-events-special-programs-page.pngThese events provide free, sensory-friendly music experiences to neurodiverse people by removing barries including cost, space, and timing. We hope to create musical experiences that can pave the way for future involvement with music and attendance at performances!

Learn more about our sensory-friendly music events


Contemporary Music Festival

Orchestra performingThe Contemporary Music Festival is comprised of concerts, masterclasses, and informal talks with exciting artists, performers, and composers of new music, and with perfomers and composers from the JMU Community. 

Learn more about the Contemporary Music Festival.


Concerts on the Lawn

Photo from within a musical ensemble, outsideSponsored by the School of Music at James Madison University, the annual Concerts on the Lawn series is a free experience where all are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket to the Duke Lawn to enjoy music by a variety of community music ensembles on select Sundays each summer. 

Learn more about the Concerts on the Lawn.

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