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. 29, 2026
Craig Colorusso’s “Sun Boxes” in the news
More than a thousand people attended the September 22 opening of Craig Colorusso’s Sun Boxes, an interactive display of solar-powered speakers independently playing continuously looping guitar notes. So did the print, television, and radio media. You can read/watch/listen to their coverage below. The event, which celebrated the Autumn Equinox, was held at Pickard Plaza and featured a sunset performance by the Mizzou New Music Initiative Creative Improvisation Collective ensemble, performing the world premiere of Piece for Sun Boxes and Musicians, written for the occasion by Mizzou student composer Dominick DeStefano. …
Sep. 15, 2026
University of Missouri Board of Curators names Mizzou New Music Initiative Artistic Director Stefan Freund a Curators’ Distinguished Professor
Mizzou New Music Initiative Artistic Director Stefan Freund has been named a Curators’ Distinguished Professor, the highest and most prestigious rank bestowed by the Board of Curators. He is one of six University of Missouri faculty members to receive the honor. Freund is a composer and cellist who has helped establish Mizzou’s School of Music as a destination for contemporary music. Through programs including the Mizzou International Composers Festival, Creating Original Music Project, and Missouri Composers Project,…
Sep. 9, 2026
The Mizzou New Music Initiative has released its fall 2026-spring 2027 schedule of events
The Mizzou New Music Initiative has released its fall 2026-spring 2027 schedule of events taking place in Columbia and St. Louis. All concerts are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Fall 2026 Craig Colorusso “Sun Boxes” Installation5 p.m., Tuesday, September 22: Performance with the Mizzou Creative Improvisation Collective, featuring a new piece composed for this project by MU composer Dominick DeStefano, Pickard Plaza (more information can be found here) Mizzou New Music Ensemble Concert7:30 p.m., Sunday, October…