John J. Cali School of Music
Who We Are
Find the inspiration, mentorship and opportunities to grow your passion for music at the John J. Cali School of Music. Study with renowned faculty, perform in exceptional venues and collaborate with fellow musicians as you build the confidence, creativity and experience for a future in music.
Perform Often. Grow Deeply.
Concerts, masterclasses and ensemble performances each year.
Experience vital growth through annual concerts, masterclasses and elite ensembles at the John J. Cali School of Music.
Artists-in-Residence Each Year
Faculty Artists and Mentors
Student-to-faculty ratio
Why the John J. Cali School of Music?
Whether your focus is Jazz, Composition, Music Production, Performance, Music Education or Music Therapy, our comprehensive programs are designed to support your artistic development and professional growth. Discover the path that’s right for you.
Where Music Meets Opportunity and Community
Gain stage experience with our Performing Ensembles
Find your place in performance through band, chamber, choir, jazz, opera and orchestra ensembles.
Connect to real opportunities with Studio Events
From studio nights and masterclasses to showcases, performances and all-day events, they connect you to the work, community and opportunities within each program.
Attend the Midweek Concert Series for a preview of life at Cali
Through performances and special events featuring faculty, students and guest artists, this free series invites you into the creative life of the school.
Wynton Marsalis with a student during the inaugural season of the Cali Immersive Residency Program.
Learn from the Best
Work alongside some of today’s most celebrated artists and ensembles through the Cali School’s annual residency program, which offers masterclasses, concerts and talks, many open to the public for free. Public events are held at the Cali School of Music and Bridges Series concerts at Merkin Concert Hall in New York City, co-presented with Kaufman Music Center.
Lead with Passion
Prepare to become a creative leader among the next generation of musicians at the John J. Cali School of Music. You will receive rigorous conservatory-level training, expert faculty mentorship, and the support and opportunity to grow as an artist, scholar and future professional.
Ready for your audition?
Follow these step-by-step instructions to audition for the John J. Cali School of Music. Information for all requirements, including repertoire guidelines, important deadlines, what to expect on audition day — and most importantly, how to apply.
“My time at Montclair helped me find my voice again and showed me how music could be used not just to perform, but to heal.”
Alyssa Muñiz ’25
Music Therapy
Aspiring Board-Certified Music Therapist
The Cali Pathways Project
Empowering future musicians, the Cali Pathways Project at Montclair State University opens doors for talented, under-resourced students in grades 8–12. The program helps bridge the path from high school to a professional music career, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of musical potential.
Become a Donor
Cali Pathways helps talented young musicians access the guidance, training, and resources they need to pursue music in college and beyond. Support this life-changing program and help open doors for under-resourced students with extraordinary potential.
“Cali has given me the chance to grow through inspiring teachers, meaningful challenges, and a community that supports who I am as both a musician and a person.”
Ashley Mendeke ’26
Graduate Performance, Flute
Musician in the West Point Band
Cali School Leadership
Meet the people leading the Cali School of Music and helping guide its students, programs, and community. They play an important role in shaping your experience here, both in and out of the classroom.
Shea Scruggs
- Director, John J. Cali School of Music
Stephanie Haggerstone
- Associate Director, Cali School of Music
Scott D Richards
- Professor
Thomas McCauley
- Professor
Heather Buchanan
- Professor
Kyle Ritenauer
- Assistant Professor
Oscar Perez
- Assistant Professor
“My musical journey has opened doors I never imagined and pushed me to grow through every opportunity along the way.”
Khalid Abdallah
Cali Pathways Project, Trumpet
Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award recipient and From the Top Learning and Media Lab Fellow
News and Announcements
Train. Perform. Grow.
Find your place among passionate musicians in a community shaped by high artistic standards. You will feel supported and challenged as you grow toward professional levels.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
John J. Cali School of Music
At the John J. Cali School of Music, exceptional artists, educators, scholars, students, and guest performers come together in a community defined by creativity, ambition, and care.
- 973-655-7212
- Chapin Hall