Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance

For aspiring artists and culture enthusiasts across New York, the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance stands as a distinguished institution, offering a unique blend of conservatory-style training within a comprehensive liberal arts college environment. Located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, this school is a vibrant hub where creativity flourishes, talent is honed, and the next generation of performers, educators, designers, and industry professionals are shaped. With a rich history and a forward-thinking approach, it's a place where passion for the arts transforms into professional mastery.

The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance (MTD) is renowned for its rigorous and highly individualized programs, designed to prepare students for successful careers in a rapidly evolving industry. Students benefit from unparalleled access to a dedicated and accomplished faculty, many of whom are world-renowned scholars, performers, and educators with national and international visibility in their respective fields. This intimate learning environment ensures personalized attention and mentorship, a critical advantage for developing artists. As one general review for Ithaca College mentions, "Small class sizes that afford plenty of 'personal attention,' 'outstanding' scholarships, and cross-registration with nearby Cornell University are a few great reasons to choose Ithaca College." This emphasis on individualized support extends strongly to the MTD school.

Beyond the classroom and studio, the MTD fosters a dynamic performance culture. The school hosts almost 400 concerts and recitals annually, spanning a vast array of genres from symphony orchestra to contemporary ensembles, and a full season of theatrical productions. These numerous performance opportunities allow students to gain invaluable stage experience, apply their training in real-world settings, and share their artistry with the wider New York community. The commitment to excellence, coupled with a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, makes the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance an ideal destination for anyone in New York serious about pursuing a career or deep passion in the performing arts.

The Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance is prominently located on the main campus of Ithaca College at 953 Danby Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA. This address places the school within the beautiful and accessible setting of the college campus, situated on South Hill overlooking the city of Ithaca and Cayuga Lake. The campus is known for its picturesque beauty, offering a stimulating environment for artistic pursuits.

Access to the campus is straightforward via Danby Road, a major route in the area. For those driving from various parts of New York, the college is well-connected to state routes and highways, ensuring a relatively easy commute. Ample parking facilities are available on the expansive campus, catering to students, faculty, and visitors attending performances or events. The internal campus road network provides convenient access to the various buildings housing the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, including the Whalen Center for Music and the Dillingham Center for Theatre and Dance.

While a review noted that it "Gets pretty cold in the winter," this is typical for the Central New York region and is well-managed by campus facilities. The campus is designed with student convenience in mind, with dining options, residential halls, and various student support services all within easy reach. This integrated campus environment enhances accessibility and provides a comprehensive experience for individuals pursuing arts education in New York.

Services Offered:

• Undergraduate Bachelor of Music (B.M.) degrees in Composition, Music Education, Music Performance (various instruments, voice, jazz studies), and Sound Recording Technology.
• Undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees in Acting, Musical Theatre, Stage Management, and Theatre Production & Design.
• Undergraduate Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Theatre Administration.
• Undergraduate Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees in Music and Theatre Studies.
• Minors available in Dance, Music, and Theatre.
• Intensive, performance-oriented training programs combined with a broad liberal arts education.
• Comprehensive vocal and dance training for Musical Theatre majors, alongside musicianship, piano, and theory education.
• Hands-on, experiential learning with a strong emphasis on professional standards in studio, classroom, and production laboratories.
• Opportunities to participate in numerous faculty and student concerts, recitals, and theatrical productions.
• Summer programs for high school students (ages 12-18) including Summer Music Academy, Summer Theatre Conservatory, and Summer Piano Institute.
• Audition and interview opportunities for prospective students, with an inclusive approach that values diverse backgrounds and potential over perfection.
• Dedicated career guidance and resources for alumni, extending support beyond graduation.

Features / Highlights:

• Highly individualized and specialized training programs with a strong focus on student growth and development.
• World-renowned faculty who are active professionals in their fields, providing expert instruction and mentorship.
• State-of-the-art facilities, including three concert halls, four recording studios, two large rehearsal halls, smart classrooms, Apple computer classrooms, labs for jazz and electronic music, and 95 practice rooms with pianos.
• A world-class music education suite, music education library, and resource center (Carl and Helene Wickstrom Music Education Center).
• The John Kinyon Music Education Resource Room, offering an extensive collection of teaching materials.
• Dedicated production shops for theatre, including costume, scenery, props, lighting, and sound shops.
• Over 30 faculty members in the Department of Theatre and Dance, all professionals in their fields.
• Produces an annual opera and a full season of theatrical performances at the Dillingham Center for Theatre and Dance.
• Strong alumni network working in renowned symphonies, opera companies, Broadway, major television networks, and prestigious universities (e.g., Jeremy Jordan, Rick Beato, Gavin DeGraw, David Boreanaz).
• Commitment to equitable and inclusive practices in the application process and in fostering a diverse community.
• Integrative Core Curriculum that challenges students to think critically and solve complex problems.
• Campus environment dedicated to social justice, inclusion, belonging, and environmental sustainability.

Contact Information:

Address: 953 Danby Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

Phone: (607) 274-7300

Mobile Phone: +1 607-274-7300

The Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance is an exceptional destination for locals throughout New York, particularly for aspiring artists in the region. Its unique model of providing rigorous conservatory-level training within the broader context of a liberal arts college offers a well-rounded education that prepares students not just as performers but as adaptable and thoughtful individuals. The opportunity to learn from "world-renowned faculty" who are also active professionals in their fields is a significant advantage, providing unparalleled mentorship and real-world insights.

For New York families considering higher education in the arts, the extensive performance opportunities—with nearly 400 concerts and recitals annually, along with a full theatrical season—ensure that students gain crucial stage experience and exposure. The state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple concert halls, recording studios, and specialized production shops, provide an ideal environment for artistic development and technical mastery. Furthermore, the strong alumni network and dedicated career support highlight the tangible outcomes of an MTD education. While the reviewer mentioned the winter weather, this is a regional characteristic and does not detract from the high-caliber education and vibrant artistic community fostered by the school. For any New Yorker passionate about music, theatre, or dance, the Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance offers a transformative educational journey right here in the heart of the state.

Ithaca College School of Music, Theatre, and Dance

953 Danby Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA