College of Music and Performing Arts Provides Unparalleled Learning Experiences through Masterclass Series

At Belmont, students in the College of Music and Performing Arts (CMPA) don't just learn from textbooks and professors - they get the opportunity to learn directly from top professionals working in their desired fields. The 2023-24 academic year featured an incredible lineup of masterclasses and guest speakers that brought industry icons to campus to share their expertise with Belmont's aspiring artists and entertainers.

David Briggs offers masterclass on organ — Concert Organist David Briggs offers masterclass

"Bringing top professional artists in to work with our students is an integral part of what we do here," said Dr. Alex Graham, associate professor in the School of Music. "These artists transport our students out of the classroom and into the professional realm where they can consider what it really takes to succeed in an extremely competitive marketplace."

The fall semester kicked off with a masterclass from Tony and Emmy award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth, who worked with Belmont's musical theatre and theatre students. Other fall highlights included guitar maker João Cassias, renowned organist David Briggs, award-winning TV/film composer Jeff Rona, jazz piano legend Jon Nakamatsu and Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie McCoy.

masterclass with timothy mcallister — Saxophonist Timothy McAllister works with saxophone students

Graham added that the performers are always anxious to share their stories with students and relate to the time when they were starting out and struggling to take their careers to the next level. He explained, “I’ve seen this sharing inspire our students to go into the world with a sense of responsibility for giving back to the community once they achieve their own success, and nothing brings me more pride in what we do here than that.”

The masterclass series continued its incredible momentum in the spring semester. Highlights included pianist Chih-Long Hu, Christian artist and GMA Dove Award winner Matt Maher and the esteemed director of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings Dr. Maureen Loughran. Several alumni returned to offer insights as well, including talent agent Kate Lackey and drummer Chester Thompson.

lindsey miller's masterclass — Masterclass with Guitarist Lindsey Miller

"Our students are blessed to have these experiences with top-notch artists active in the industry," said Shawn Knight, assistant professor and director of Belmont’s BFA in Performance program. "The hope is that our students learn both artistic skills and the value of the arts as a gift to our communities."

As Associate Professor and Department of Theatre and Dance Chair Brent Maddox stated, "Masterclasses with industry professionals help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, providing students with practical skills, insights and networking opportunities to be successful in their chosen field."

By engaging with working professionals at the pinnacle of their craft, Belmont CMPA students gain crucial real-world perspectives, career guidance and artistic skills that complement their academic coursework. It's an unparalleled experience that exemplifies Belmont's commitment to providing an enriching education that equips students for sustained excellence and impactful artistry after graduation.