Orpheus Choir
Dr. Jeff Bell, Director
School of Music
The Olivet Nazarene University School of Music offers limitless opportunities for students to hone their musical craft. From worship services to the concert hall, you’ll find music in every corner of the campus.
Overview
Olivet’s Rich Heritage of Musical Excellence
From the university’s earliest days, music has been a significant part of the academic, social and spiritual offerings.
The School of Music has produced graduates serving in classrooms and colleges all around the country. Performance majors are found in opera houses, musical theatre productions, concert stages and amidst some of the country’s leading performing ensembles. Composition graduates are penning popular music, and scoring films for major production houses and commercials.
Accredited. The Olivet Nazarene School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
From the Dean
“Our faculty are credible, practicing musicians. Students get real-world experience in and out of the classroom.”
At the School of Music, we believe that every student needs to develop quality music skills as part of discipleship so that when they go into the broader world they have credibility in their craft, which leads to open conversations about other things, such as their faith.
Olivet Nazarene University Music Ensembles
Proclamation Gospel Choir
Dr. Marvin Jones, Director
Tiger Marching Band
Dr. Matt Stratton, Director
University Orchestra
Dr. Neal Woodruff, Director
Concert Band
Jerry Luzeniecki, Director
Sounds of Praise Choir
Nathan Lain, Director
Concert Singers
Dr. Neal Woodruff, Director
Jazz Band & Jazz Combos
Jerry Luzeniecki, Director
String & Chamber Ensembles
Rebekah Cope, Director
Guitar Ensemble
Freddie Franken, Director
Wind Ensemble
Dr. Matt Stratton, Director
Steel Drum Band
Matt Jacklin, Director
Music Scholarships
Scholarship Opportunities Available for both Music Majors and Non Majors
Whether you have decided to be a music major or not, Olivet offers all incoming new students the opportunity to audition for music scholarships including voice, band, orchestral instruments, piano and composition.
Areas of Study
Explore the Programs within the School of Music
More than 600 students participate in music activities. Some choose to major in music, some choose to minor, and some choose merely to augment their Olivet degree with music. Even entry-level students will find a place to be involved.
SChool of Music Performance
Handel’s Messiah
The Olivet Nazarene University School of Music in coordination with the ONU Alumni Association presented the 88th performance of Handel’s Messiah in an expansive reunion concert, featuring a 250+ voice alumni and student mass choir, augmented University Orchestra, and professional alumni soloists on October 26, 2024. Dr. Neal Woodruff conducted, with congregational support from Dr. Jeff Bell.
Recognition
You’ll Be In Excellent Company
These companies have hired Olivet School of Music grads.
Alumni Spotlight
Meet Grammy Nominee, Bethany Robinson
Two-time Grammy Educator of the Year Nominee, Bethany Robinson ’04/’11 MED sits down for an interview to share stories about her time at Olivet, her work, and her personal life.
School of Music Faculty
Meet Dr. Neal Woodruff
Dr. Woodruff is the Dean of the School of Music.
Dr. Woodruff joined the ONU faculty in 2000. He is the conductor of the University Orchestra and Concert Singers. His teaching responsibilities include applied voice/pedagogy (both classical and contemporary), opera/music theatre, applied conducting, and church music.
Prior to his appointment at Olivet, he served on the faculties of Malone College, Southern Nazarene University, and the Herscher, Ill., school district. In addition, he has maintained numerous full- and part-time church positions in Illinois, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas.
More Information
We Hope to See You
Whether you’re interested in one of our concerts or musicals, or whether your a prospective new student who’s interested in the program and facilities, we’d love to see you around!
Concerts & Events
Olivet’s School of Music hosts a variety of concerts and events on campus for campus and community alike. Many events are general admission and free, while some require tickets.
Our Facilities
Larsen Fine Arts Center is the home of the School of Music. The building is filled with classrooms, studio space, practice rooms, rehearsal halls and Kresge Auditorium, which hosts musical performances, recitals, plays, lectures and more.
Orpheus Choir
Travel World-wide
Orpheus Choir and Proclamation Gospel Choir schedule tours each year, presenting concerts in the U.S. and around the globe. The University Orchestra and other ensembles have presented concerts and recitals at various locations.
MUSIC PLUS
Theatre & Music Combined
Our thriving School of Music and Theatre program incorporate music into many of the productions.
Apply, Visit, Schedule
Ready to take the next steps?
Olivet is as nearby as a click or call. Making Olivet your choice is simple.
Arts & Music News
The Latest From the Olivet campus and beyond
Faculty and Student News, plus highlights from Alumni and Friends. View more Arts & Music News
Join Us on Social
Check out the latest from Instagram by following @olivetschoolofmusic.
Where Your Future Begins
We Believe. You Belong Here. Discover why Olivet is a place where faith meets calling. Take the first step today.