Join us in celebrating five decades of music, mentorship, and impact at Memorial University’s School of Music!

The Department of Music was established on August 1, 1975, with the appointment of Donald F. Cook as its first Director. The first class of students arrived in September 1976, and by the spring of 1979, Memorial conferred its first Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Music Education degrees on a graduating class of six.

Since then, the School has grown into a vibrant community of performers, composers, educators, and scholars whose influence extends throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, across Canada, and around the world.

Throughout 2025–2026, we invite you to reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and help shape the future of music in our province and beyond.

There are many ways that you can join us in our anniversary celebrations: attend an event, learn about our alumni, browse through our history, or learn how you can support us using the links below.

Reflecting on our History

• Explore a timeline of our 50-year journey - Coming soon!
• Discover stories of accomplished alumni shaping music and culture worldwide - Coming soon!
• Are you an alum? Submit an alumni profile —we’ll share your story on our website and social media.
• Reminisce with us! Share your memories on social media with #MUNMusic50. Tag us so we can share!

Celebrating Together

• Experience a performance in our 50th Anniversary Concert Series throughout the 2025–26 season - Series announcement coming soon!
• Stay connected through our Friends of the School newsletter with our School of Music Newsletter.
• Attend a School of Music 50th Anniversary reunion event - Stay tuned for more details.

Investing in our Future

• Support the next generation of musicians, educators, and cultural leaders. Find out how you can make a difference.

Sign up for our Friends of the School Newsletter!

Stay up-to-date on all 50th Anniversary news, including upcoming reunions, concerts, alumni profiles, and more.