Overtones: Fall 2025

In the Fall 2025 issue of Overtones, our cover story explores how military bands can offer a stable career path for classical musicians. Discover why service bands have become a viable alternative to civilian orchestras—though not without tradeoffs.

Also in this issue, we explore how contemporary music artists persuade stakeholders to program new works. How can nontraditional music gain greater visibility?

This month’s Q+A spotlights Jessie Montgomery, Curtis’ 2025–26 composer in residence, who reflects on writing music that examines present-day issues. In Sound Off, faculty members Pamela Frank and Monica Ellis, along with Haochen Zhang (Piano ’12) and Timothy Chooi (Violin ’17), propose ways to improve classical music competitions.

Flutist and new faculty member Chelsea Knox shares recs on podcasts, books, and films; associate provost David Bahanovich reminisces on his Hollywood days; and Curtis students reveal inspiring ways they use instrument cases as sources of motivation. Plus, take a close-up look at the newly renovated offices at 1718 Locust Street.