Community Programs

UM Music proudly contributes to the Lafayette Oxford University (LOU) community through musical programs for a range of ages and skill levels.

a group of high school students stand with their instruments

A Musical Community

Professor Morreale conducts the Summer College group

Summer College | Explore the Arts

Take string, woodwind, brass, percussion or piano weekly lessons with UM faculty, play in large and small ensembles, and learn about music history and literature. This intensive experience will culminate in a final music performance for friends, family, and community members.

This program welcomes aspiring musicians who are ready to hone their talent and learn about careers in music.

A student plays violin

Oxford String Project

Designed by UM Music's string faculty for absolute beginners in 3rd through 6th grades. Students can sign up for either violin, viola, or cello. Under the guidance of Dr. Armee Hong, classes and rehearsals are designed to teach novice string players in a fun, active, and stimulating environment. The spring session will conclude with a concert in Nutt Auditorium on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 in conjunction with the LOU Youth Symphony. Registration for Fall will begin in August.

from the audience perspective, youth orchestra performs on stage

LOU Youth Symphony

Lafayette Oxford University (LOU) Youth Symphony aims to build excellent orchestra players for students in 7th through 12th grades. Orchestra classes and rehearsals are designed to teach students in an enjoyable, active and stimulating environment. The spring session will conclude with a concert in Nutt Auditorium on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Registration for Fall will begin in August.

band rehearsal at the direction of the conductor

LOU Summer Community Band

Calling all band lovers! Whether alumni, band director, high school marching band member, or prospective student, you can join the Ole Miss Summer Band! Under the direction of Prof. Randy Dale, LOU Summer Community Band members will rehearse in the Ole Miss Band Hall on Tuesdays in June, performing cherished band repertoire. All ages and skill levels welcome!

a cellist performs in front of an audience as an orchestra member

LOU Community Orchestra

The LOU Community Orchestra is a Summer Program welcoming string players of all ages and skill levels. Practice and perform in an orchestral setting under the direction of Dr. Vincent Morreale.

children's choir singing with sheet music

Oxford Children's Chorus

The Oxford Children’s Chorus, or OCC, aims to build musicians through collaborative music making. The select singers in grades 3-7 build music literacy skills that will last throughout their lifetime. Each rehearsal includes time developing music reading and writing skills. Concerts highlight the singers’ musical development and their production of beautiful, expressive singing. Registration details coming soon!

Campus and Community Partners

  • Two Summer college string instrument students

    The Office of Pre-College Programs

    The Office of Pre-College Programs offers challenging programs, events, and competitions for talented K-12 students, fostering academic and personal growth to prepare them for future success. UM Music is proud to offer the Oxford String Project, LOU Youth Symphony, and Summer College through a partnership with PreCollege Programs.

    Learn more about K-12 Programs
  • Singers in the Oxford Civic Chorus perform holding song books

    Oxford Civic Chorus

    Oxford Civic Chorus was founded in 1998 by Gabriel C. Statom, a senior music major at the University of Mississippi, and Dr. Martha Hitch of the university’s Music Department faculty with the mission of inspiring singers, enriching community and expanding musical horizons. Choir members are a part of a thriving choral community led by Artistic Director and UM faculty member, Debra Atkinson.

    Learn more or join the Oxford Civic Chorus