Lionel Hampton School of Music
Advancing the art of music
At University of Idaho’s Lionel Hampton School of Music (LHSOM), you’ll join a student-centered program dedicated to excellence in music education, performance, composition and innovation. Named in honor of legendary jazz artist Lionel Hampton, the school blends tradition with forward-thinking instruction, preparing students to thrive as artists, educators and professionals in today’s diverse music industry.
Whether you aspire to teach music in schools, perform on stage, compose original works or work in music-related industries, LHSOM offers mentorship, resources and performance opportunities to launch your musical career. As one of the most active schools on campus, we present an extensive calendar of concerts, festivals and recitals each year — including the world-renowned Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival.
University of Idaho is an accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Music.
Academic programs
Whether you’re pursuing a career as a performer, teacher, composer or music industry professional, the Lionel Hampton School of Music offers accredited degree paths designed to develop your artistic skills, musical knowledge and career readiness. Our programs emphasize applied learning, studio instruction and broad exposure to music theory, history and performance.
Undergraduate degrees
- B.A. in applied music
- B.S. in applied music
- B.Mus. in music education
- B.Mus. in music composition
- B.Mus. in music performance
Graduate degrees
- M.Mus. in music
- Concentration option in music education, performance, composition, piano pedagogy and performance studies, or collaborative piano.
Minors
Upcoming events
Explore our degrees
See which area of study fits your interests.
Audition with us
Join us January 31 on-campus or schedule a virtual audition.
Admission requirements
Admission to the Lionel Hampton School of Music (LHSOM) requires an application to the U of I and an audition for the LHSOM. We welcome passionate musicians from all backgrounds who are eager to grow artistically and academically in a supportive environment.
Have questions about auditioning? Contact us at music@uidaho.edu for more information.
Undergraduate admission process
- Apply to University of Idaho
- Complete the LHSOM application
Schedule and complete an audition
All applicants must audition on their primary instrument or voice. Auditions can be completed in person, via video call or by submitting a recorded audition. Priority scholarship consideration is given to those who audition by Feb. 28, 2026 and have a 3.0 GPA.
Audition day
Our in-person audition day on Jan. 31, 2026, is the best way to learn about your school and meet your future faculty and colleagues.
Activities include:- Meeting one-on-one with professors and students who share your interests.
- Hearing U of I faculty and students perform.
- Attending a panel discussion with current students who will answer questions about what it is like to be a music student at LHSOM.
- Auditioning for admission and scholarships.
- Touring our beautiful campus.
- Discussing financial aid, scholarships and admission with experts.
You may complete an application to the LHSOM at any point during the year. To receive priority consideration for scholarships, audition by Feb. 28, 2026.
View Audition Day 2026 Schedule
Primary instruments
Students may audition on one of the following:
- Brass: Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba
- Woodwinds: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone
- Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass (String Bass), Guitar
- Keyboard: Piano
- Voice: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, Bass
- Percussion: Concert Percussion, Drum set
Piano Placement Exam
The Piano Placement Exam is for students seeking to place out of some, but not all required piano courses.
The Challenge by Exam Form is necessary only when testing out of all four semesters for majors and two semesters for minors. This form must be filled out prior to taking the challenge exam. No exam may be conducted during the last two weeks of any academic session.
Theory and Aural Skills Diagnostic Exam
The goal of this exam is to advise transfer students regarding deficiencies in their prior theory training. The exam is given during the first week of classes each semester, as needed.
Exam resources
Transfer students
LHSOM will provide you with a transfer advisor to help ease the transition from your previous institution and typically accepts music credits from NASM-accredited institutions.
Graduate admission process
- Apply to University of Idaho Graduate Admissions
- Complete the LHSOM application
You will also need to complete the Supplementary Information Form and the Graduate Assistantship Form and send them to the Graduate Admissions Office. Schedule your audition
Review the Master of Music concentration requirements before scheduling your audition.
Have questions? Contact Javier Rodriguez for more information.
Master of Music concentration requirements
- Piano performance: One Baroque piece, plus two contrasting works from different stylistic periods (Classical, Romantic, Impressionist, 20th/21st century). Memorization required.
- Piano pedagogy and performance: Three contrasting pieces from different stylistic periods (Classical, Romantic, Impressionist, 20th/21st century). Memorization required.
- Collaborative piano: Sight-reading: Score will be presented at the audition, one solo work or sonata movement (memorized), one collaborative instrumental piece or sonata movement, and two art songs representing two different languages.
- Choral conducting: Audition (in person or recorded performance), and submission of repertoire lists (solo, accompaniments, chamber music).
- Composition: Portfolio of representative compositions.
Graduate teaching assistantships
Assistantships include a stipend and tuition waiver. Priority consideration: February 1. Award notifications typically begin March 1. To be eligible for a teaching assistantship, you must be enrolled as a full-time graduate student (9 credits).
Students awarded assistantships are required to take the TA training course through the College of Graduate Studies before assuming teaching responsibilities. This course is offered the week prior to each semester.
Diagnostic placement exams
All incoming graduate students are required to take two diagnostic exams prior to enrolling in advanced (500-level) courses in the subject areas covered by the placement examinations. These exams are designed to assess foundational knowledge, ensure readiness for advanced study and help faculty advisors determine if any remedial coursework is needed to strengthen areas of deficiency.
Exam timing: Exams are typically administered on the Saturday before the start of the fall semester. Students must arrive on campus in time to complete the exams.
Required exams
- Music history and literature
- Aural skills/ear training
Exam resources
International students
You are required to have a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 575 (PBT) if English is not your native language or if your undergraduate education was not in English. You must submit an official TOEFL report to the College of Graduate Studies (COGS) prior to admission to the music graduate program.
Transfer students
LHSOM provides advising support to help transfer students navigate their transition from another institution. We typically accept graduate-level music credits from NASM-accredited institutions, with a maximum of nine credit hours eligible for transfer. All transfer students are required to complete the diagnostic placement exams.
Auditions
Once you have submitted your U of I and LHSOM applications, you will choose one of the following audition formats:
- Attend Audition Day (recommended): Held on Jan. 31, 2026, this in-person event allows you to:
- Meet LHSOM faculty and students
- Attend live performances and Q&A panels
- Audition for admission and scholarships
- Tour campus and speak with financial aid experts
- Schedule a private Zoom audition – Speak directly with faculty and receive real-time feedback.
- Submit a video audition – If you are unable to attend a live audition, upload a video via YouTube and email it to music@uidaho.edu. A faculty member will follow up with you.
Note: If auditioning on more than one instrument, submit a separate audition for each.
Accompaniment
- Instrumentalists: Auditions are typically unaccompanied.
- Vocalists: May bring their own accompanist or a pianist will be provided to sight-read the accompaniment. Please bring the original music or a double-sided, three-hole punched copy in a three-ring binder. CD or a cappella accompaniment is discouraged.
Request more information
Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll connect you with the information you need to start your journey.
Launch your musical career
Our graduates pursue careers as performers, educators, composers and arts professionals. Whether you’re preparing for graduate study or seeking industry opportunities, LHSOM offers the foundation and connections to support your goals.
Career paths include:
- K-12 music education
- University teaching
- Professional performance
- Arts administration
- Music production and technology
Ensembles
Interested in joining an ensemble? Whether you’re pursuing a music degree or simply love to perform, the Lionel Hampton School of Music welcomes all U of I students to be part of our ensemble community. From jazz and classical to choral and opera, there’s a place for every voice and instrument to shine on stage.
Signature events and outreach programs
At the Lionel Hampton School of Music, performance and public engagement go hand in hand. Through an exciting calendar of concerts, festivals and community outreach programs, LHSOM students and faculty share their talents with audiences across campus, the Palouse and beyond. These events offer transformative experiences—not only for performers, but also for K-12 students, aspiring composers, local music lovers, and visiting artists. Whether you're attending a performance, mentoring young musicians, or participating in a workshop, LHSOM invites you to be part of the music that brings our community together.
Future Vandal Singing Day
Future Vandal Singing Day is a free, one-day immersive choral event held annually each November for middle and high school students and their choral directors. Participants experience what it’s like to be a college music major by attending interactive classes, workshops and rehearsals led by LHSOM faculty and students.
This event is designed to inspire the next generation of vocal performers and demonstrate how music can remain a part of their lives in college and beyond—regardless of their chosen major or institution.
Event details
- Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
- Location: University of Idaho, Moscow Campus
- Cost: Free (Lunch not included; campus options available)
- Registration deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025
Questions? Contact Evan Stoor for more information.
Preparatory Division
Welcome to University of Idaho's Music Preparatory Division, coordinated by Sam Welsh, DMA. The "Prep" offers high quality music instruction in a university lab school setting. Our faculty includes Lionel Hampton School of Music professors, experienced professional musicians and student teachers working under professional supervision. We provide private lessons to students of all ages and levels in piano, voice and several string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. Our ensembles include the Greater Palouse Youth Orchestra and the Cantabile String Ensemble.
Ready to sign up? Please contact us at music-prep@uidaho.edu. We look forward to welcoming you to the Preparatory Division family.
Student opportunities
LHSOM offers hands-on learning experiences and extracurricular activities to enrich your student experience beyond the classroom.
Leadership and professional growth:
- Engage in student organizations for networking, professional development, and other opportunities.
- Gain real-world experience by joining the production crew (work study and non-work study eligible).
Contact us at music@uidaho.edu to discover more student opportunities.
Join our community
Be part of a collaborative, passionate and inspiring school that honors tradition while pushing musical boundaries. Whether you’re here to perform, teach, compose or explore, LHSOM will support your artistic journey.
Meet our people
The Lionel Hampton School of Music is a close-knit community of prominent performers, teachers, composers and scholars who interact closely with dedicated and talented students. Get to know our amazing faculty and staff here at the Lionel Hampton School of Music.
Administrative Faculty and Staff
LHSOM administration
Sean Butterfield
Director, Clinical Associate Professor of Trumpet and Music Theory
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 205
208-885-6231
music@uidaho.edu
Javier Rodriguez
Director of Graduate Studies, Associate Professor of Bassoon, Associate Director
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 313
jrodriguez@uidaho.edu
Zachary Sherlock
Administrative Assistant
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 206
208-885-6233
zsherlock@uidaho.edu
Alisa Volz
Communications Specialist
Shoup Hall, 201
208-885-5627
avolz@uidaho.edu
Janice Todish
Financial Specialist
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 206
208-885-8964
jtodish@uidaho.edu
Auditorium Chamber Music Series administration
Navin Chettri
Manager, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and ACMS, Lecturer of Music, Artistic Director of World Music Celebration
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 204
208-885-0112
nchettri@uidaho.edu
Monica Evans
Music Events Operations Coordinator
CLASS Annex 11 A
208-885-7557
mrevans@uidaho.edu
Vanessa Sielert
Professor of Music, Education Advisor, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 308
208-885-6231
vanessas@uidaho.edu
Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival administration
Navin Chettri
Manager, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and ACMS, Lecturer of Music, Artistic Director of World Music Celebration
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 204
208-885-0112
nchettri@uidaho.edu
Monica Evans
Music Events Operations Coordinator
CLASS Annex 11 A
208-885-7557
mrevans@uidaho.edu
Vanessa Sielert
Professor of Music, Education Advisor, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 308
208-885-6231
vanessas@uidaho.edu
Vern Sielert
Professor, Trumpet and Director of Jazz Studies, Artistic Director of Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 304
208-885-4955
verns@uidaho.edu
Preparatory Division administration
Sam Welsh, D.M.A.
Voice, Piano, Winds, Brass and Percussion Coordinator
swelsh@uidaho.edu
Miranda Wilson
Professor of Cello
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 211
208-885-6615
mirandaw@uidaho.edu
Vandal Marching Band administration
Spencer Martin
Clinical Professor of Music, Director of Athletic Bands
Blake House G7
spmartin@uidaho.edu
Nikki Crathorne
Assistant Director
Cherice Cameron
Administrative Assistant
Faculty
Brass
Sean Butterfield
Director, Clinical Associate Professor of Trumpet and Music Theory
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 205
208-885-6231
music@uidaho.edu
Jason M. Johnston
Associate Professor of Music
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 212
jjohnston@uidaho.edu
Jenny Kellogg
Instructor Faculty
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 305
jdkellogg@uidaho.edu
Torrey Lawrence
Professor of Music, Provost and Executive Vice President
tlawrence@uidaho.edu
Geoffrey McKay
Temp Faculty-Lecturer
geoffreymckay@uidaho.edu
Vern Sielert
Professor, Trumpet and Director of Jazz Studies, Artistic Director of Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 304
208-885-4955
verns@uidaho.edu
Mark Thiele
Assistant Professor of Tuba/Euphonium and Director of Bands
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 212N
208-885-0539
mthiele@uidaho.edu
Composition
Daniel Bukvich
Professor of Percussion and Theory, Director of Jazz Choir, University Distinguished Professor
c/o Lionel Hampton School of Music
208-885-7055
dbukvich@uidaho.edu
Dylan Champagne
Lecturer of Music Composition and Digital Audio workstation
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 109
dchampagne@uidaho.edu
Max Wolpert
Clinical Assistant Professor of Composition
Blake House 106
mwolpert@uidaho.edu
Music education
Lori Conlon Khan
Clinical Associate Professor of Music Education
Blake House 107
208-885-0157
lorick@uidaho.edu
Steve Fairbanks
Clinical Faculty
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 210
sfairbanks@uidaho.edu
Spencer Martin
Clinical Professor of Music, Director of Athletic Bands
Blake House G7
spmartin@uidaho.edu
Evan Stoor
Director of Choirs
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 211
estoor@uidaho.edu
Percussion
Daniel Bukvich
Professor of Percussion and Theory, Director of Jazz Choir, University Distinguished Professor
c/o Lionel Hampton School of Music
208-885-7055
dbukvich@uidaho.edu
Navin Chettri
Manager, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and ACMS, Lecturer of Music, Artistic Director of World Music Celebration
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 204
208-885-0112
nchettri@uidaho.edu
Spencer Martin
Clinical Professor of Music, Director of Athletic Bands
Blake House G7
spmartin@uidaho.edu
Piano
Eneida Larti
Assistant Professor of Piano
Lionel Hampton Music Building, Room 204
208-885-6425
larti@uidaho.edu
Roger McVey
Professor of Piano
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 303
208-885-7440
rmcvey@uidaho.edu
Kate Skinner
Assistant Professor of Jazz Piano
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 302
208-885-5737
kates@uidaho.edu
Strings
Steve Fairbanks
Clinical Faculty
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 210
sfairbanks@uidaho.edu
Giselle Hillyer
Lecturer of Violin and Viola
Ridenbaugh 223
ghillyer@uidaho.edu
Miranda Wilson
Professor of Cello
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 211
208-885-6615
mirandaw@uidaho.edu
William St. Peter
Lecturer of Guitar
Ridenbaugh 204
wstpeter@uidaho.edu
Dave Bjur
Ridenbaugh 306
bjur@uidaho.edu
Voice
Stefan Gordon
Assistant Professor of Voice
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 307
sgordon@uidaho.edu
Michelle Lange
Instructor Faculty
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 310
mlange@uidaho.edu
Christian Reed
Vocal Instructor and Vocal Coach
Ridenbaugh 306
reedc@uidaho.edu
Evan Stoor
Director of Choirs
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 211
estoor@uidaho.edu
Woodwinds
Ayca Cetin
Assistant Professor of Flute
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 309
acetin@uidaho.edu
Javier Rodriguez
Director of Graduate Studies, Associate Professor of Bassoon, Associate Director
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 313
jrodriguez@uidaho.edu
Vanessa Sielert
Professor of Music, Education Advisor, Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 308
208-885-6231
vanessas@uidaho.edu
Camilla Yoder
Temp Faculty-Lecturer
Ridenbaugh 223
cyoder@uidaho.edu
Katsuya Yuasa
Lecturer of Clarinet
Lionel Hampton Music Building, 109
katsuya@uidaho.edu
Give to LHSOM
Support the next generation of musicians and music educators through scholarships, performance opportunities, and community outreach. Your gift makes a lasting impact.