The Department of Music and Dance includes two distinct programs united by the quality of instruction and the diversity of educational experiences we provide to our students. The Music Program, based in the Randolph Bromery Center for the Arts, and our Dance Program, based in the Ruth J. Totman Gymnasium, both offer intensive and supportive instruction that empowers students to achieve their academic, performance, and personal goals.

Dance students practice at UMass Amherst

Our Mission

Serving as a cultural ambassador for music and dance, the department maintains visibility through broad course offerings, public appearances, and outreach activities within the university and the community at large.

Matthew Westgate, UMass Amherst Department of Music and Dance

From the Chair

Our amazing students, faculty, and staff continue to connect people through traditional concerts and performances, books, and articles, but we are also expanding our reach, relevance, and influence through new partnerships, innovative collaborations, and technological experiments. It’s an exciting time for our department!

Accreditation

Our Music Program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), and is also accredited by the New England Association of Universities and Colleges.