Department of Music

Academic departments shape how cities think about sound. Department of Music anchors that conversation in Morningside Heights, where theory and practice meet on campus.

Dodge Hall sits just off Broadway at 120th Street; inside, room 621 houses the administrative hub at 621 Dodge Hall, 2960 Broadway, New York, NY 10027. From composition seminars to ethnomusicology workshops, the curriculum spans centuries and continents. Students can pursue degrees in performance, musicology, or composition—each track designed to balance rigor with creative exploration. The calendar also includes public lectures, recitals, and collaborations with other Columbia schools, making the department a quiet crossroads for scholars and performers alike.

Neighborhood bookstores and coffee shops often hum with post-concert discussions, a reminder that music education doesn’t stay confined to lecture halls. Faculty members bring expertise from orchestras, conservatories, and research institutions, while guest artists add fresh perspectives throughout the year. Auditions, advising sessions, and thesis defenses keep the schedule full, though details remain tucked behind department doors.

Questions about programs or events can be directed to (212) 854-3825. Directions to the office are available on the map at this link.