Signature and Special Events

Music has always played a central role at Mount Holyoke College. All incoming students learn to sing the Alma Mater with the Glee Club, the Family and Friends concerts are a highlight for visitors to our campus each Fall, while no commencement is complete without the Baccalaureate Concert. Over our almost two centuries of history, the music department has developed unique musical traditions that are now central to campus life.

Signature Events

These signature events are the highlight of an ensemble's annual calendar and celebrate through music, the many facets of life at the college.

Family and Friends Weekend Concert

All family members and friends are invited to come to a fun and engaging rehearsal to sing together and learn a combined piece the morning of the concert.

Monsters Ball

Monsters Ball is MHC's Annual Halloween dance party!

Holiday Vespers

A cherished tradition at Mount Holyoke celebrating light and togetherness on a cold December night.

Mary Lyon Concerts

Mary Lyon Concerts celebrate the work of women and women musicians.

The Big Broadcast!

A re-creation of a live 1940's radio show directed by Mark Gionfriddo featuring the Mount Holyoke College Big Band, Vocal Jazz, and Chamber Jazz Ensembles.

Community seeks divine intervention in the Qkueen Moremi African Folk Opera

African Opera Series

Mount Holyoke College and Five College students collaborate with professional musicians and choreographers in operatic adaptations of African Mythology.

Sonic Vanguard

Sonic Vanguard is a speaker series at Mount Holyoke College that explores the work of some of the most active creators and scholars of music today.

Composite image of Speakers for Mellon NAIS.

Mellon NAIS Series

The series explores performance practice issues regarding the world’s first opera fully sung in Chickasaw, Jerod Impichchaachaacha’ Tate’s Shell Shaker.