About Eastman School of Music:
The Eastman School of Music was founded in 1921 by industrialist and philanthropist George Eastman (1854-1932), founder of Eastman Kodak Company. It was the first professional school of the University of Rochester. Mr. Eastmanâs dream was that his school would provide a broad education in the liberal arts as well as superb musical training.
More than 900 students are enrolled in the Collegiate Division of the Eastman School of Musicâabout 500 undergraduates and 400 graduate students. They come from almost every state, and approximately 23 percent are from other countries. They are taught by a faculty comprising more than 170 highly regarded performers, composers, conductors, scholars, and educators. They are Pulitzer Prize winners, Grammy and EMMY Award winners, Guggenheim Fellows, ASCAP Award recipients, published authors, recording artists, and acclaimed musicians who have performed in the worldâs greatest concert halls. Each year, Eastmanâs students, faculty members, and guest artists present more than 1,000 concerts to the Rochester community and beyond. Additionally, over 1,700 community members, from young children through senior citizens, are enrolled in the Eastman Community Music School.
The Rochester International Jazz Festival enters its 23rd edition on Friday, June 19 and runs through Saturday, June 27, with performances held across multiple venues in downtown Rochester.
Eastman School of Music announces that Sarah Rhee â01E, â09E (DMA) will join the faculty as assistant professor of piano pedagogy, beginning in fall 2026.
Eastman School of Music announces that Erin Johnston has been named assistant professor of music theory, beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.
Aiming to develop technologically curious musicians into leaders in their field, this new program prepares graduates to navigateâand shapeâmusicâs ever-evolving landscape, commencing in fall 2027.
Eastman alum Brett Shurtliffe â01E returns to his alma mater as visiting instructor of double bass, starting in fall 2026.
All Eastman School of Music commencement activities are set to occur on Friday, May 15, 2026. This yearâs esteemed graduation speaker is MatĂas Tarnopolsky, President & CEO of the New York Philharmonic.
Dr. William Weinert will conduct his final Eastman performance on Friday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. in Kodak Hall. Joshua Conyers to sing the title role.
Eastman closes the semester with a vibrant range of free and ticketed events!
Eastman School of Music faculty members and students will observe Yom HaShoah by presenting a concert on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in Kilbourn Hall.
Eastman announces that Donald Nally has been named visiting professor of conducting & ensembles and interim director of choral activities for the 2026-2027 academic year.