Mary Pappert School of Music
The Mary Pappert School of Music was established as part of Duquesne University in 1926. Originally only offering a Bachelor of Music degree, the school now offers four undergraduate degrees in Music Performance, Technology, Education, and Therapy. The building that currently houses the music school classrooms was completed and dedicated in 1967.
The school building holds three recording studios, two music technology labs, and two modern performance venues as well as several practice rooms available on all four floors of the facility. The program is recognized as both an All-Fender guitar school and an All-Steinway piano school with 68 Steinway pianos. The Pappert School has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Muisc since 1966.
The school's mission statement states that it aims to "provide musical education that connects the broad spectrum of historical and current practices; and in promoting the relationship between theory and practice, prepare professionals who will be the leaders in the musical culture of the 21st century."
Author Elaina Loveland writes that the Mary Pappert School of Music "offers undergraduates the opportunity to study music technology and music therapy - and that makes its program rise above many others" in her book Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians, and Writers.
Performance Spaces
PNC Recital Hall
This performance space located on the first floor of the Mary Pappert School of Music was dedicated in 2001 and can comfortable seat 260 people. The shape of the hall was designed to provide excellent acoustics and the room also is outfitted with 5.1 surround sound multimedia system. The space's A/V system also allows for visual accompaniment to student presentations or performances. The space was renovated in the past decade with new lighting, an improved backstage area, and new stage flooring capable of accommodating an orchestra. Two Steinway grand concert pianos and a harpsichord round out the hall's equipment list.
Thomas D. Pappert Center for Performance and Innovation
Completed in 2010, the Thomas D. Pappert Center for Performance and Innovation was designed to be the ultimate acoustic experience. The space is equipped with high definition audio and video recording equipment as well as surround sound audio. The room's sixteen foot projection screen also allows for elaborate multimedia performances. The design aspects of the space include curved doors, sound diffusers in the walls, and acoustic panels hanging from the ceiling in order to maximize acoustic potential. The Pappert Center is regularly used for student recitals, faculty performances, and charity events for the School of Music.
Faculty
Dr. Patrick Burke
Dr. Patrick Burke serves as Assistant Professor of Musicianship and Music Technology at the Mary Pappert School of Music. An alumnus of Duquesne's Music Composition undergraduate program from 1996, Burke went on to receive his Master's and Doctorate from the University of Texas and Yale University respectively. He has won numerous awards from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers as well as an Aaron Copland grant. His music is played by groups ranging from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra to his contemporary music group NOW Ensemble.