Whether you are a music major or minor, or you want to continue making music in college, CUW can shape your future in meaningful ways.


Here are three stories of CUW alumni, and how their experiences in the Music program helped make them who they are today. Click on READ MORE to see each complete story. Click HERE to read more stories about CUW Music.


Craig Toerpe (’00)

A former coach and educator who discovered you don’t have to be a music major to find major music opportunities at CUW.

Key Quote: “My prayer is that current and future generations of CUW musicians will create their own memories and take their God-given talents to the next level with the new music facility.” READ MORE


Rachel Morton (’11/’16)

A Parish Music graduate who followed God’s leading to turn her love of music into a meaningful career in the Church.

Key Quote: “If I had it to do over again, I would choose CUW every time. I highly value their mission of “helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.” Music is a head, heart, and hands experience, so I feel like the Music Department embodies that mission.” READ MORE


Alex Lauersdorf (’23)

A recent CUW graduate who truly understands that music is a gift from God and is eager to share it with the next generation.

Key Quote: “The Music department at CUW has continued to push me and develop my skills both as a musician and educator, and I am truly thankful for what they have done for me over these past four years.” READ MORE


How you can help!

The CUW Music Department is currently raising funds to build a new, long-overdue music rehearsal space. The new building will devote 6,800 square feet to rehearsal and practice rooms for the 225-plus students at Concordia who are majoring in music programs or involved in one of CUW’s 12 music ensembles. If you’d like to help, click the link below to find out how to contribute.


Want in?

Since 1881, Concordia University’s mission has been teaching and preparing students for careers and vocations that serve The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Music has always been an integral part of that mission. The music department contributes to the spiritual, cultural, artistic, academic and co-curricular aspects to University life on campus. As the campus has grown in scope and size the music department has become more integral to the University mission.