MURRAY, Ky. – In a landmark moment for the arts at Murray State University, an anonymous donor has made the largest single gift commitment in the history of the University’s Department of Music in the College of Humanities and Fine Arts. This transformational investment will immediately address critical equipment needs and establish two endowed funds that will shape the future of music education at Murray State for generations to come.
The first priority of this extraordinary gift will be the acquisition of a new performance Steinway Grand Piano for the Performing Arts Hall in the Old Fine Arts Building—an essential enhancement for a campus venue known for its outstanding performances. The gift will also fund other equipment upgrades across the department, ensuring that students and faculty have access to the tools necessary to continue producing exceptional music.
“This investment is truly transformational,” said Dr. Bob Jackson, President of Murray State University. “Music has always been at the heart of the Racer experience, and this gift honors that legacy in the most profound way. It ensures our students will continue to thrive artistically, academically and professionally while enhancing our ability to serve the region and beyond as a cultural and educational resource.”
The gift will also establish two new endowed funds:
• An endowed Fund for Music Excellence, which will provide perpetual support for departmental needs, faculty development, programmatic innovation and student experiences; and
• A new Music Scholars Endowment, a scholarship supporting music students with financial need and exceptional talent.
These endowments will address not only immediate needs, but also long-term priorities such as student recruitment and retention, faculty support, performance travel and internship funding.
“Students studying music today are tomorrow’s performers, educators, composers, music industry professionals and leaders in the arts,” said Dr. Mike D’Ambrosio, chair of the Department of Music. “This gift ensures that they have the best instruments, the best instruction, and the best opportunities to grow and succeed. It affirms what we’ve always known: music matters. And at Murray State, it thrives.”
The department has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music since 1936 and by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation for its teacher certification programs. Murray State music graduates go on to become opera singers, music publishers, recording artists, artist managers, award-winning educators, recording engineers and more—each proudly carrying the Racer music tradition into the world.
With eight major/career tracks and a national employment outlook showing over 1.2 million jobs in music-related fields with an average salary of $64,000 (Lightcast), Murray State’s program offers tremendous opportunities for graduates. The department’s broad range of ensembles and organizations—from the famed Racer Band and EQ Blu to the Wind Ensemble, Concert Choir and Campus Lights—offers real-world experience and lifelong connections for its students.
The gift also supports the department’s ability to offer critical scholarships and internship opportunities. These resources reduce the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus on their studies and participate fully in the ensemble, performance and outreach opportunities that define a Racer music education. Internships, which are often required for majors like music business, are essential for developing skills, building industry networks and launching successful careers.
“This donor’s vision recognizes that music changes lives—not only for those who study it, but for all who experience it,” added D’Ambrosio. “Their legacy will resonate through every rehearsal, every performance and every student who finds their voice through music at Murray State.”
While the donor has chosen to remain anonymous, their investment speaks volumes.
“This donor’s philanthropy is visionary, thoughtful and incredibly personal,” said Dr. Tina Bernot, executive director of advancement at Murray State. “This gift commitment, as a part of our Be Bold: Forever Blue & Gold Centennial Fundraising Campaign, is a resounding endorsement of the Murray State University Department of Music, the power of higher education and the lasting impact of the arts in west Kentucky and beyond.”
For more information about the Department of Music at Murray State University, visit murraystate.edu/music. To learn more about other impactful giving opportunities, please contact the Murray State Office of Development at 270-809-3250.