Guitar Studio
Guitar Studio
Southern Miss guitarists have gone on to pursue graduate degrees at prestigious music programs all over the country, received prizes in numerous national and international performance competitions, and found meaningful employment in the field of music. At Southern Miss, you get a positive approach to competition, collegiality, professionalism, and performance confidence. Dr. Ciraldo regularly leverages his extensive performing and recording experience to provide a realistic and practical perspective to his students.
What will I Learn?
In this welcoming and inclusive program you will receive exceptional training in technique,
theory, musicianship, chamber music, pedagogy, literature, and live performance.
Student performance opportunities include:
- Weekly studio classes
- Studio guitar recitals and chamber music recitals
- Degree or non-degree recitals
- Performances for guest artists
- Gigs in local coffee shops, bars, clubs, and restaurants
- Community outreach performances at schools and assisted living facilities
Attaining as much performance experience as possible before graduation is a high priority.
Dr. Ciraldo strives to help you find off-campus recitals, travel to competitions and
festivals, and more, to maximize their performing potential while at Southern Miss.
His main goal is to show you how to be successful.
Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest
March 15 2025 | 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
The Screamin’ Eagles Guitarfest is an all-day event for professionals, students, amateurs,
and lovers of the guitar to meet together and celebrate our fantastic instrument.
Get ready for a diverse group of presenters and amazing guest artists, a full day
of activities, educational opportunities, performances, opportunities to shop, new
friendships, and more. This is an inclusive event -- everyone is welcome, no matter
what your level is or what kind of guitar you play. This is Guitar for Everyone.
Guest artists include:
- Vasti Jackson
- Barry Leach
- Eric Merchant
- Michael Boyd
- Latisha Hamilton Earnest
- Nick Ciraldo
Student/Alumni Accomplishments
- James Reyelt (DMA) was hired as professor of music (guitar) at the University of South Alabama, performed for FestivalSouth and the Baton Rouge Symphony, and is now head of the guitar program at American Heritage High School, in Miami, Florida.
- Juan José Alpízar (MM) won the Troy Guitar Competition, also performed for the Baton Rouge Symphony, and is now a DMA candidate at the University of North Texas.
- Alex Gater (MM) was hired as adjunct professor of music, teaching guitar and music appreciation, at Pearl River Community College.
- Jerry Cruse (BM) was hired as music instructor at The Music Studio of Gulfport, MS.
Adam McPhail (BM) is a highly successful live/studio guitarist and educator in Nashville, TN. - Daniel Lima (MM) runs the Daniel de Lima School of Guitar in Brazil.
- Dan Confait (BM) is owner and operator of DC Guitar Studio in Meridian and Madison, MS.
- Dan Kyzer (BM) has been successful in numerous competitions and concerts and has been instructor of guitar at UT Tyler and Mountain View College.
Availability
Speak to your advisor to see which degree plan is right for you.
| Degree Plan | Availability |
|---|---|
| Music BA | Hattiesburg |
| Music (Performance-Strings) BM | Hattiesburg |
| Music Education BMEd | Hattiesburg |
| Music (Jazz Studies) BM | Hattiesburg |
| Music (Performance-Strings) MM | Hattiesburg |
| Music (Performance) DMA | Hattiesburg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We have scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. Scholarships can be stacked with other scholarships offered by the School of Music and/or the Office of Admissions. Some scholarships require a December 1st application deadline. Please apply as early as possible to benefit from the greatest possible scholarships. Contact Dr. Ciraldo for information.
Yes, all prospective students must audition to the School of Music. Contact Dr. Ciraldo for more information.
Please contact Dr. Ciraldo for assistance in finding the right guitar for you. The School of Music also has guitars for rent.
