About the College
The University of Tennessee has a rich history of music, dating back to the 1860s when what is now known as the Pride of the Southland Marching Band began. From the Blues in Memphis, country music in Nashville, and folk in Appalachia – music is embedded in Tennessee’s history and the economy.
As the flagship university of our state, we stand alone as the only College of Music in Tennessee and the Southeastern Conference, and one of the select few standalone music colleges nationwide among state universities.
Mission & Vision
The college fosters excellence by encouraging growth in each other and building connections within our larger community.
Natalie L. Haslam
In 2024, the college was named in honor of Mrs. Natalie L. Haslam, an alumna of the university and one of its most generous benefactors.
Facilities & Venues
Whether in the Scruffy City or in the beautiful Natalie L. Haslam Music Center, our Music Vols have a wide variety of performance venues.
Points of Pride
6:1
student-to-instructor ratio
Enrollments are carefully monitored to ensure all students receive the training and experiences they need to be successful.
All-Steinway
School Distinction
Among fewer than 250 All-Steinway Schools worldwide, we provide world-class pianos for exceptional student artistry.
300+
Performances
Over 300 student and faculty performances annually, from symphony concerts to cutting-edge new music showcases.
More about the college
Access & Engagement Statement
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music follows the aspirations outlined by the UT Board of Trustees:
“We are dedicated to expanding access to educational opportunities, striving to remove barriers, and making academic pursuits more affordable. Consistent with the University’s commitment to high academic standards, student achievement, and the preparation of responsible citizens, we believe that engaging with individuals from all backgrounds and perspectives fosters a vibrant learning environment that enhances critical thinking and intellectual growth. Our collective strengths make us stronger, and we are committed to promoting an atmosphere where all members of the University community feel welcome, can thrive, and achieve success.”
The UT System’s approach to Access & Engagement is further outlined by President Randy Boyd in a recent memo released in July 2025.
Accreditation
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville and the degrees and programs of the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music are accredited through the National Association of Schools of Music.
Founded in 1924, the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) is an organization of schools, conservatories, colleges, and universities with over 600 accredited institutional members. It establishes national standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and other credentials for music and music-related disciplines, and provides assistance to institutions and individuals engaged in artistic, scholarly, educational, and other music-related endeavors.
National Association of Schools of Music
11250 Roger Bacon Drive
Suite 21
Reston, Virginia 20190-5248
(703) 437–0700
Digital Learning Statement
The Natalie L. Haslam College of Music embraces digital learning as an empowering tool for music instruction.
We acknowledge the significance of digital competence and literacy for musicians and music educators. Given the societal reliance on technology and the integration of digital environments, we aim to equip our students with the necessary skills for their futures.
Music is a fundamental human experience. We affirm that digital learning can reach underserved learners and make music more accessible. We advocate for the use of digital learning to connect with and guide musical communities, both locally and globally.
We are dedicated to providing professional and rigorous online instruction across all modalities and learning formats. Recognizing barriers to access, we are committed to a future of overcoming challenges and providing equitable access for all students.
Open Positions
Interested in joining the Natalie L. Haslam College of Music as faculty or staff? Visit our Open Positions webpage to view a current listing of opportunities.
Hire a Musician
Whether you’re hosting a corporate dinner, planning a wedding, organizing a campus celebration, or looking to elevate a community event, the talented student musicians of the UT Natalie L. Haslam College of Music can help make it unforgettable.
