Music and Theatre Arts unite to inspire at St. Mary’s University

University announces newly combined Department of Music and Theatre Arts

St. Mary’s University announced today the creation of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts, a dynamic, new academic unit that unites the University’s vibrant Music and Drama Programs.

This merger reflects the University’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary creativity and educating leaders for the common good. New opportunities stemming from this department will include professional-level experience and high-impact learning for students, as well as innovative performances, arts festivals and community engagement.

The new department also establishes St. Mary’s University as a hub of creativity, offering a transformative experience for students from all programs on campus and enriching the fabric of the University and the greater San Antonio community, said Matthew Mireles, D.M.A., Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts, and Professor of Euphonium.

The new department will foster creativity through all the academic disciplines on campus, cultivating innovation and critical thinking. Students will have access to exceptional faculty and numerous performance opportunities that will prepare them for careers as artists, educators and innovators in their chosen fields.

“The establishment of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts represents an exciting new chapter for St. Mary’s University,” Mireles said. “We’ve built a space where creativity thrives, talents are nurtured, and students are empowered to make meaningful impacts on the world through the performing arts and beyond.”

The department will debut its first performance under the new structure with Legally Blonde: The Musical in March 2025, in collaboration with students and faculty from the St. Mary’s University School of Law.

Along with new performances and opportunities, the Department of Music and Theatre Arts will also continue signature events, including the Fiesta Jazz Festival, Christmas Spectacular, Día de los Muertos Celebration, and the Summer Music and Theatre Camps.

St. Mary’s University invites the San Antonio community to join in celebrating the performing arts and to experience the inspiring work of its students and faculty at these upcoming events.