Mary Pappert School of Music Celebrates the Class of 2026

The graduating class included students representing most degree programs across the School of Music, including performance, music education, music technology, and jazz studies. Throughout their time at Duquesne, these students participated in hundreds of performances, recitals, recordings, research projects, and community engagement initiatives both on campus and throughout the Pittsburgh region.

Members of the Class of 2026 will continue into a wide range of professional pursuits following graduation, including teaching, performance, arts administration, recording and production, and work within nonprofit and community arts organizations. Others will continue their education through additional degrees, certificates, and specialized training opportunities. Several graduates have also been selected to participate in prestigious festivals and professional programs.

As part of this year’s celebration, the School of Music also recognized distinguished composer, educator and alumnus Samuel R. Hazo with the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award. A nationally and internationally recognized composer, Hazo is widely known for his contributions to wind ensemble literature, with works performed by professional ensembles, military bands and educational institutions around the world.

Hazo earned both his Bachelor of Science in Music Education and Master of Music degrees from Duquesne University. In addition to his extensive work as a composer and clinician, he has served as a music educator and guest conductor throughout the United States and internationally. The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes alumni whose professional accomplishments and service reflect the mission and values of the Mary Pappert School of Music.

During his remarks to graduates, Hazo spoke about resilience, growth and the challenges graduates will face throughout their careers, encouraging students to embrace adversity as part of both artistic and personal development. “When you are handed dissonances throughout your life, compose them into what they need to be, and be grateful you were given the opportunity.”

Duquesne University and the Duquesne University Mary Pappert School of Music congratulate the graduates of the Class of 2026 and look forward to the impact they will continue to make in the musical and educational communities they serve.