I was happy to join longtime Mizzou supporter Dr. Jeanne Sinquefield to reveal her $3.4 million commitment to our Mizzou New Music Initiative (MNMI) — helping build on MU’s legacy as a leader in the creation and performance of new music.

The surprise announcement came after Dr. Sinquefield joined the School of Music’s weekly convocation. Natalia Bolshakova, MU collaborative piano instructor, also played an original composition by student J.T. Wolfe, marking the 1,000th piece of music written and performed through the initiative.

With a legacy of inspiring composers (some as young as 6) to create new work, Dr. Jeanne and Rex Sinquefield are helping us invest in Missouri’s next generation of musical talent. This gift is a continuation of their more than 10 years of growing the MNMI, and just one of many ways they have supported our School of Music — including the new Sinquefield Music Center building.

I want to thank both Dr. Jeanne and Rex Sinquefield for their dedication to our creative community.

— Mun