Whether as an instrument of faith, an artistic and communal experience, or a learning environment, music has long had a place at Juniata. Generations of alumni cite their time in the choir or playing an instrument with an ensemble as a source of growth and friendships, a chance to learn about collaboration and leadership, or as a formative experience in getting to know themselves. Today’s students seek experiences with music that have the same power and impact as what you may remember. Students come to Juniata aware of our strong history and offerings in music, and now we have the chance to strengthen what we offer and increase the impact it will have on students.

We believe music is a keystone of the College’s history, heritage, and community. A new music facility will support the passions and interests of a wide swath of students, and provide space for additional academic options.

We believe music is a keystone of the College’s history, heritage, and community. A new music facility will support the passions and interests of a wide swath of students, and provide space for additional academic options.

Rooms of Our Own

When John Dale '54 walked to the podium at the groundbreaking of the new Integrated Media and Studio Arts Building to reveal its namesake, he had a reason for honoring the couple he was about to name. It might be better, however, if the honoree told the story.

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Preservation of Memories

If there is one thing Bill Hayes knows like the back of his hand, it's how to build strong relationships. He knows that if you build on trust, even at a small rural institution, you can then grow that enterprise into a formidable player in a larger market.

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Presently, one-third of Juniata students are involved in the College’s music programs. The only extracurricular experience to rival music in numbers is varsity athletics. Like athletics, friendships form over the hours of practice and conditioning necessary for musical performance at the level Juniata ensembles consistently achieve. Our music ensembles, particularly our choir, are also a form of outreach by the College, taking students to other communities and nations. For instrumental music, a growing program, some off-campus performances have occurred, as well as collaborations with the Altoona Symphony Orchestra.

Right now, all of the work that must take place in rehearsal, practice, and learning occurs in a once-elegant home retrofitted for the purpose of music. Its spaces are cramped, acoustically challenging, drafty, and costly to maintain. Given the level of interest and performance in music and the key role it plays in co-curricular life at Juniata, it is time to build a new facility expressly designed as a place where music is taught and practiced. While much credit goes to the faculty and students who work in Swigart Hall for making the best of the situation, the time has come for a new music facility.

With a lead gift of more than $1.5 million toward a $5 million project, we are well underway. But the time is now for those passionate about music at Juniata to help lead the effort to provide a new home for students engaged in music.