A Department of Music since 1943, the Cali School of Music<\/a> was established in 2006 after a generous gift from the family of a successful New Jersey real estate developer. Part of Montclair\u2019s College of the Arts<\/a>, it is dedicated to preparing future artists, composers and arts leaders. With world-class faculty, exceptional training, and state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Leshowitz Recital Hall<\/a> and Alexander Kasser Theater<\/a>, it offers conservatory-level education within a vibrant university setting.<\/p>\n Denton Moreland<\/strong>, a senior Music Education major and violist from North Brunswick, New Jersey, says he and his fellow students have grown as musicians and people. \u201cCali has so many resources for musicians to draw from, and it’s such a welcoming atmosphere. In this dynamic environment, we are exposed to so many amazing Immersive Residency<\/a> artists. It feels as though I have an endless source of information and inspiration. Music school is 100% worthwhile because I would not have been surrounded by people who push me forward in the way that my colleagues at Cali do had I chosen another path.\u201d<\/p>\n Ai Isshiki<\/strong>, a third-year graduate student commutes from Brooklyn because of the Music Therapy<\/a> program Cali offers, noting it is one of only a few offered in the area and is affordable for a single, working mom. A professional pianist and teacher, Isshiki was practicing guitar, a requirement for her major, she says, adding that the program will expand her career options. \u201cI\u2019ll be able to play for dance classes or even work in a hospital if I want,\u201d Isshiki says.<\/p>\n Daniel Sokolski<\/strong>, a sophomore Jazz Studies<\/a> major from Hawthorne, New Jersey, says that while a music degree is not always necessary, a rigorous music education is still worthwhile. He praises Cali\u2019s faculty, affordability and many concert and ensemble opportunities. Between costs and scholarships, he expects to graduate debt-free and values the networking opportunities provided by faculty members, who are also professional musicians. Sokolski, who plays piano, says the skills and techniques he is developing make him a more versatile musician. \u201cI’m getting to know a lot of really great players here, and I\u2019m able to play with a lot of musicians too,\u201d he says. \u201cI\u2019ve been doing some composing and have been involved in the Afro Caribbean Ensemble and two jazz combos. I\u2019m also in the process of networking and getting some gigs so that I can put my name out there.\u201d<\/p>\n Jack Gemmell<\/strong>, a sophomore Musical Theatre<\/a> major from San Diego, chose Montclair\u2019s College of the Arts because of its blend of a supportive arts community, industry connections among faculty and fellow students and well-rounded curriculum. \u201cWe\u2019re really lucky we get to work with the Cali School of Music because in a lot of programs, you don\u2019t get that opportunity,\u201d Gemmell says. \u201cWe get private voice lessons, which is the most important part of our training that we receive from the Cali School but we also get keyboard, theory and oral skills, so I\u2019m really grateful.\u201d<\/p>\n IMMERSIVE RESIDENCY: Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis teaches Cali School students about life and art<\/a><\/p>\n With 509 students enrolled in programs ranging from Voice Performance<\/a> to Recording Arts and Production<\/a>, the Cali School of Music<\/a> has continued its steady growth. According to Anthony Mazzocchi, Director of the Cali School, \u201cOur proximity to New York, the cultural capital of the world, our top-tier faculty, unique programs and affordability have contributed to this incredible growth.\u201d<\/p>\n During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cali stood out as one of the few music schools that maintained a rehearsal and performance schedule. Their innovative solutions, such as holding rehearsals in and streaming performances from an open-air parking deck, gained national attention<\/a> and showcased the school\u2019s creativity.<\/p>\n Music school is not for the weak of heart. \u201cStudents take as many as 15 separate classes in any given semester \u2014 several being half-credit ensembles, one-credit techniques classes, or two-credit lessons,\u201d says Cali Academic Administrator Gina Balestracci, noting that only 15% of the coursework in music is made up of three-credit courses typical in other majors. \u201cEach semester students take lessons on their primary instrument, several ensembles that use and further develop the skills that they’re learning in their lessons, as well as historical, theoretical, and other subject-area academic coursework that support their musical studies and the concentration studies in areas like education and therapy.\u201d<\/p>\n In addition, Balestracci adds, all of the music degree programs require Capstone activities, such as a solo recital or an internship, that are a demonstration of the cumulative skills and knowledge developed throughout the student’s program.<\/p>\n National Acclaim: Kelly Clarkson Show Features MSU Singers<\/a><\/p>\n The Cali School of Music<\/a> stands out for its innovation, dedication to student success, and its collaborative, inclusive atmosphere. No matter your industry aspirations, Cali\u2019s strong curriculum and industry connections make it a top choice for students pursuing a music career.<\/p>\n View more photos from the Cali School.<\/p>\n Prospective Student \/ Parent: Learn more about the Cali School of Music<\/a>, College of the Arts<\/a> or plan a visit to our campus<\/a> and take the first step in applying to become a Red Hawk!<\/a><\/p>\nWhat Students Love About the Cali School of Music<\/h2>\n
A School on the Rise<\/h2>\n
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What Sets the Cali School Apart?<\/h2>\n
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I\u2019m a ______, tell me more…<\/h2>\n