Susan Tusing joined the College of Arts and Media family in July as the new director of music. She said she is trying to get the “lay of the land” of how things are done at Marshall University.

“I am trying to learn for myself what works here and what are some things the faculty would like to work on to improve the program,” Tusings said.

Tusing’s previous position was the chair of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at Clayton State University in Atlanta, Georgia. Tusing said she was looking for a new position that would bring her back to music.

“My previous position required me to look over all the arts and I wanted to focus back on music,” Tusing said. “That’s where my training and my heart is.”

Tusing said she comes from a non-music family, but that didn’t stop her from pursuing piano.

“I remember having a fascination with watching pianists play when I was young,” Tusing said.  “I begged my parents to let me start piano lessons and I loved it.”

Tusing practiced piano for nine years before college and has earned three degrees for piano performance from several universities.

As for students interested in music as a degree, Tusing said she believes in “following your dreams.”

“If you are a musician at heart, take that leap and study music,” Tusings said.

Tusing said the School of Music has many opportunities for non-music majors as well.

“All of our ensembles, the jazz bands, the orchestra, the choirs, they are all open to any student on campus,” Tusing said. “All of the programs even offer one hour credit.”

Tusing said the music department is open to any who “have a place for music in their hearts.”

Wendell Dobbs served as a temporary director last academic year before the position was given to Tusing.

Buffy Six can be contacted at [email protected].