Celebrating

50 Years

of the College of Musical Arts

Honoring a half-century of musical excellence, innovation and impact at BGSU

For 50 years, the College of Musical Arts (CMA) at Bowling Green State University has been a vibrant center of creativity, scholarship and performance. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite our community of students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends to join us in honoring the college’s legacy and looking ahead to its future. Throughout the 2025-26 academic year, we’ll showcase premier performances, special events and stories that reflect the college’s enduring impact on the arts and culture – at BGSU and beyond.

Premier events and performances

Join us for a yearlong celebration of music, memory and momentum!

Throughout the 2025-26 academic year, CMA will host a series of signature concerts, guest artist residencies and special events in celebration of its 50th anniversary.

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50 years of the College of Musical Arts

A journey through musical excellence at BGSU

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Through the years

Take a look back at the people, performances and places that have shaped the CMA over the past five decades.

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West Hall, 1974. Previous home to School of Music.

Photo of students from 1975-1976, when the College of Musical Arts is officially established.

Moore Musical Arts Center opens in 1979 and becomes the college's new home.

The inaugural New Music and Art Festival takes place in 1980.

Helen McMaster Endowed Professorship in Vocal and Choral Music established in 2000.

Since 2000, CMA has had significant partnerships and collaborations such as with the Toledo Symphony.

Bob McGrath is featured as the inaugural guest for the Hansen Musical Arts Series Fund in 2003.

BGSU broke ground on the Wolfe Center in 2009.

Photo from the New Music Festival in 2014.

Photo from Hansen Concert Series in 2018.

Moore Musical Arts Center Groundbreaking Ceremony

A legacy of excellence

The College of Musical Arts has been a cornerstone of Bowling Green State University’s creative and academic life for more than 50 years. Its roots trace back to the early 20th century, when music instruction began at BGSU. The college was formally established in 1975, bringing together a growing community of performers, educators and scholars.

Over the decades, the college has earned national recognition for its innovative programs, including one of the first doctoral degrees in contemporary music the nation. CMA faculty and alumni have shaped the future of music education, performance, composition and scholarship across the country and around the world.

From the opening of the Moore Musical Arts Center in 1979 to the launch of groundbreaking ensembles and festivals, the CMA continues to be a dynamic force in the arts – committed to excellence, access and artistic exploration.

Share your CMA story

Were you part of a memorable performance? Did a faculty mentor shape your path? Whether you're an alum, student, staff. faculty member or friend of the college, we want to hear from you. Share your story and help us celebrate the people and moments that define the College of Musical Arts.

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Updated: 11/12/2025 03:12PM