The department's faculty are active performers, researchers, and composers, presenting a well-attended series of recitals and presentations each academic year. In addition to directing and coaching student ensembles, presenting solo and chamber music recitals, master classes, lectures, and in-service workshops both on and off campus, many faculty provide additional service to the campus, the community, the state, and the region. Faculty are allowed leave time from campus to serve as guest conductors, adjudicators, and presenters. Current and former faculty members direct area church choirs, provide organ music for services, teach students privately, and conduct Missoula-based groups such as the Missoula Symphony Orchestra, Missoula Symphony Chorale, Mendelssohn Club, and Missoula Community Concert Band. These are normally in addition to their duties as music faculty.
Faculty members are over extended in terms of load.
The Department of Music serves more than 220 majors with 18 full-time faculty members and six adjunct faculty members. Over the last six years, student enrollment has risen sharply, with growing populations in the B.M.E. curricula. Graduate student population is low. The Department of Music and the School of Fine Arts administration are currently working to address this issue. In addition to maintaining the excellence of its current programs and ensembles, the Department of Music is eager to develop the composition and music technology areas of the curriculum.