Shepherd School of Music |The Shepherd School of Music

It Takes an Orchestra

The Future of Music

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At Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, we cultivate the mastery of musical performance, combining a conservatory experience with the educational opportunities of a leading research university.

50th Anniversary Events

James Gaffigan Conducting

Alumnus James Gaffigan named Houston Grand Opera music director

Loden reappointed as dean of Rice’s Shepherd School of Music

A young woman (Pamina) with a frightened expression stands in front of flames of fire, with a dark looming presence behind her (Queen of the Night)

Shepherd School to reimagine ‘The Magic Flute’ with artistic collaboration, student focus

Sasha Cooke

Acclaimed mezzo-soprano Sasha Cooke ('04) finds a home on the international stage

Cristian Măcelaru takes a bow with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in his debut concert. He wears a blue suit with his hand on his chest and a small smile on his face, looking upwards. He stands in front of orchestra musicians dressed in black concert attire.

The New York Times: Cristian Măcelaru Cues a New Era at the Cincinnati Symphony

Steven Jamail sits at the piano performing with singer Lea Michele at Carnegie Hall in front of blue lighting

Composing a Career: Steven Jamail (’02) on Music, Mentorship and Rice

Newly renovated audience chairs in Duncan Recital Hall with red seat cushions and dark wood

Stude Concert Hall and Duncan Recital Hall get sophisticated makeover

Aerial image of the Shepherd School of Music's two brick buildings at sunset, with the Houston skyline in the background, and the text "The History of the Shepherd School of Music: A Timeline" overlaid

Explore Shepherd's Historical Timeline

Decorative block with text: "Digital 25/26 Season Brochure"

Explore our 25/26 season brochure

Five students in blue dress shirts and black pants stand side-by-side with their wind instruments and smile for a photo

Bridging cultures through music in China: Shepherd students and deans travel to Tianjin, China

Headshots of incoming faculty

Shepherd welcomes seven new full-time faculty members in fall 2025

Read the latest news from the Shepherd School

Events Calendar

View the events calendar