USC Thornton School of Music

The USC Thornton School of Music, part of the University of Southern California, is a prestigious institution renowned for its comprehensive music programs and distinguished faculty. Established with a commitment to musical excellence, USC Thornton offers a rich array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, encompassing a wide range of musical disciplines. These include Choral & Sacred Music, Classical Guitar, Composition, Jazz Studies, Keyboard Studies, Music Industry, Music Technology, Musical Theatre, Organ Studies, Popular Music, Strings, Vocal Arts & Opera, and Winds & Percussion. USC Thornton is also known for its specialized programs in Arts Leadership, Early Music Performance, Musicology, Music Teaching & Learning, Screen Scoring, and Studio Guitar, as well as offering Graduate Certificates and Artist Diplomas in various musical arts. The institution emphasizes a holistic approach to music education, integrating Chamber Music, Community Engagement, Ensembles, General Education, Minors, and Electives, along with International Programs and Professional Masters Programs. The school's commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is reflected in its senior leadership and Board of Councilors, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of progressive values within the academic community. USC Thornton's International Network and Alumni relations extend the school's influence and support beyond its Los Angeles campus, fostering a global community of musicians and scholars. USC Thornton's facilities include state-of-the-art performance halls and a music library, providing students with the resources necessary for a comprehensive learning experience. The school's location in Los Angeles offers students unique opportunities to engage with the vibrant local music scene and participate in events like the Piatigorsky International Cello Festival. The school's faculty is comprised of esteemed musicians and scholars, including the founder of the Jazz Studies department, Thom Mason, who is recognized for his contributions to the field and his insights into the legacy of jazz musicians such as Jelly Roll Morton. USC Thornton actively engages with the broader community, as evidenced by its students and alumni who provided period music entertainment at the 12th annual USC-Huntington Early Modern Studies Institute (EMSI) conference. This event showcased the school's commitment to integrating historical context and performance, enhancing the academic experience with practical applications. As an institution dedicated to nurturing talent and fostering innovation, USC Thornton School of Music continues to shape the future of music through its rigorous academic programs, community engagement, and the pursuit of artistic and scholarly excellence.