How is Penn State's music dept?

<p>My son is specifically interested in trumpet performance major. I'd love to hear any feedback anyone has on Penn State's music program. Thanks!</p>

<p>My son applied for trombone last year after having a great time at a music camp there and the brass guys seemed very good. It is a smallish music school (aprox 350) on a large campus and did not seem to have a lot in scholarship dollars so could be expensive if you are out of state. The music kids seemed very tight and if you get in one of the dorms close to the music school Penn State will feel a much smaller instituiton than it really is. For in-state a good choice although I think focused more on the education side than performance.</p>

<p>Agree completely with NJ Jazz dad. (And if any one is looking specifically for viola, Tim Deighton is worth meeting with.)</p>

<p>My son took a few lessons with a trumpet teacher, Langston Fitzgerald, who used to teach at Peabody. When my kiddo was a freshman in college Langston took a job at Penn State (my kid did not go to Peabody so it was ok for him). DS really liked this trumpet teacher…he’s a hot ticket (we met him too…very personable). If he’s still there, try to get a lesson with him.</p>