Mizzou New Music Initiative
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Mizzou New Music Initiative
About
The Mizzou New Music Initiative is a diverse array of programs launched by the University of Missouri’s School of Music intended to position the school as a leading center for the composition and performance of new music. The Initiative is the direct result of the generous support of Dr. Jeanne and Mr. Rex Sinquefield and Sinquefield Family Philanthropy.
Recent Posts
Sep. 8, 2026
“SUN BOXES” OUTDOOR SOUND INSTALLATION AND WORLD PREMIERE CONCERT TO TRANSFORM PICKARD PLAZA INTO LIVING MUSICAL ENVIRONMENT ON SEPTEMBER 22
Internationally-acclaimed sound artist Craig Colorusso and the Creative Improvisation Collective at the University of Missouri School of Music will transform Pickard Plaza on September 22 from 5-7 p.m. into an immersive musical environment featuring Colorusso’s innovative Sun Boxes sound installation and the world premiere of a music composition written for this occasion by Mizzou student composer Dominick DeStefano. Sun Boxes consists of 20 solar-powered speakers, each independently playing a continuously looping guitar note. Together, the notes create a sustained B-flat chord, but because every loop is a different length, the composition is constantly shifting and evolving. Visitors become part…
Sep. 8, 2026
Three MNMI-associated composers represented on the American Composers Orchestra’s “2023 Earshot Readings” Album
Three composers associated with the Mizzou New Music Initiative are represented on a new album by the American Composers Orchestra. Released August 21, 2026 on Presto Music’s Platoon label, 2023 EarShot Readings features works by Oswald Huỳnh, Daniel Sabzghabaei, and Brittany J. Green. Huỳnh’s Gia Đình, Green’s Rencontres, and Sabzghabaei’s (گر آتش بارد به پیکرم)Hommage à Khāleqī were recorded in New York City’s Tishman Auditorium at the SONiC Festival’s 31 st EarShot Readings. The performances were conducted by Tito Muñoz and developed with…
Aug. 18, 2026
Katherine Balch and David Longstreth Named Distinguished Guest Composers for 2027 Mizzou International Composers Festival; Applications Open for Resident Composers
Internationally acclaimed composer Katherine Balch and American songwriter and composer David Longstreth will serve as Distinguished Guest Composers at the 18th annual Mizzou International Composers Festival (MICF), which will take place July 25-31, 2027 in Columbia, Missouri. Applications are now open for eight Resident Composers to write new works for GRAMMY Award-winning Resident Ensemble Alarm Will Sound. The 18th annual MICF will feature concerts of music by contemporary composers performed in front of live audiences, along with in-person workshops, master classes, and other events.