Missouri State University Joins the Prestigious Ranks of All-Steinway Schools

Transforming Music Education Through World-Class Instruments and Visionary Leadership

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. In 2010, when Dr. Julie Combs arrived at Missouri State University to lead the Department of Music, one of her first priorities was clear: elevate the program’s instruments to match the talent and ambition of its 300 music majors. Coming from All-Steinway Oklahoma State University, Dr. Combs understood firsthand how access to the world’s finest pianos could inspire both students and faculty, and help position MSU as a destination for serious musicians. Thus began a journey that led to the acquisition of 52 new Steinway & Sons pianos for the university, along with its new designation as a prestigious All-Steinway School. Here is how Dr. Combs achieved her goal:

To begin, she enlisted Harry Reed, Steinway piano specialist at Schmitt Music in Kansas City, to assess the university’s aging piano inventory. “Dr. Combs knew there would be no cost or obligation and that we would be a strong advocate for the music department,” Reed said, noting that most instruments were more than 50 years old. “The inventory analysis helped us build a long-term partnership and provide resources to engage administrators, development staff, and donors.”

That collaboration laid the groundwork for a transformative, multi-million-dollar renewal of MSU’s music facilities. In 2015, the university acquired 10 new Steinway-designed Boston UP-126E Performance Edition uprights for practice rooms and teaching studios, coinciding with a major renovation of Ellis Hall as the new home of the Department of Music.

“With the beautiful renovation of Ellis Hall, the addition of climate control, and the creation of state-of-the-art performance spaces in C. Minor and Hamra Halls, becoming an All-Steinway School was the next logical step,” Dr. Combs said. “We are committed to giving our students and faculty the best instruments and spaces for the study of music, and our audiences a world-class listening experience.”

When Ellis Hall was rededicated on Sept. 24, 2017, a seven-foot Steinway Model B took center stage in the June S. Hamra Recital Hall, It was a piano personally selected at the historic Steinway factory in Astoria by Sam and June Hamra alongside MSU music faculty. Soon after, the university unveiled a nine-foot Steinway Model D concert grand during a public dedication ceremony attended by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson and Steinway CEO Ron Losby.

With strong support from President Clif Smart, Provost Frank Einhellig, and the MSU Board of Governors, the university approved a $1.6 million investment to purchase 52 new Steinway & Sons pianos for Ellis Hall, Wehr Band Hall, and the Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. Today, Missouri State proudly houses 66 Steinway instruments, a testament to its commitment to excellence in music education.

“This is a game-changer,” said Dr. Shawn Wahl, interim dean of the College of Arts and Letters. “It’s a transformational decision that strengthens our vision of creating a destination arts campus at Missouri State University.”

Faculty who participated in the factory visit shared that sentiment.

• “All-Steinway status communicates to students and the community that MSU is committed to the arts and to quality infrastructure that supports our work,” said Dr. Jeremy A. Chesman, professor of music.
• “Current and future generations of students pursuing artistic excellence will now have the finest instruments to explore nuance, color, and voicing,” added Dr. Wei-Han Su, professor of music and keyboard area coordinator.
• “These beautiful instruments will inspire our students’ artistic growth and enrich the musical culture of our community,” said Dr. Hye-Jung Hong, associate professor of music.

For students like sophomore keyboard performance major Parker Payne, the impact is immediate and deeply personal. “Becoming an All-Steinway School puts Missouri State on the map for those who wish to practice and perform on the best pianos around the globe,” he said. “Steinways elevate our artistry and our drive to become professional musicians.”