Column: Music major Michael Mattola

by Jessica Rehm

Michael Mattola always loved music. He grew up singing, was a part of musicals, and choirs, and enjoyed theater. When it was time for him to start thinking about college he knew he wanted to go for singing. Michael is now a junior majoring in music, and is heavily involved with the program, being a part of multiple ensemble groups, succeeding in classes, and being the secretary for the department. He participates in  jazz ensemble, contemporary music, percussion ensemble, and chorus.

Music is one of the smallest majors on campus, but that’s one of the reasons he chose to come here. A perk of a small major is being able to have one on one time with professors. “There is a small student to professor ratio so it makes it easier to get to know professors and get individual time with them,” says Mattola. He also states that all of his professors within the music department are “uplifting and motivational” and “act in the interest of the student.”

“When you’re having trouble practice makes perfect” is one of the best pieces of advice Michael has gotten from his professors, along with “There’s never such thing as too much practice.” 

Although the music department is looked at as an “underrated major,” Michael does say there are always enough instruments for all students to play and plenty of updated equipment, something that all the students are very grateful for.  “There’s always room for improvement though,” says Mattola in regards to new instruments. He says they have the necessary equipment, but could use some new equipment in the future. 

For the future of this department Michael does see an increase in enrollment in the near future. “There has been a steady incline in the major. The program has grown by adding things like pep band and new ensembles to its program.” He also states that many students bring their own instruments from home to campus for their classes. 

One thing Mattola says that needs to happen for music to remain on college campuses is keeping arts in grade schools. “Arts are the first thing to get cut in schools. There is more of a lean to keep sports, science, and math in school curriculums. But, there are statistics that show music transforms into math, sports, and coordination,” says Mattola.