What is the MGSO?
The MGSO is here for you.
We work on establishing a communication channel between students, faculty, the DGS, and the Chair, holding a biannual department conference, offering travel grants to professional meetings/conferences outside Pittsburgh, and creating a collegial studying environment.
MGSO Board 2026-2027
President: Avery Faust
Vice President: Laura Gonzalez Fidalgo
Secretary: Jefferson Lin
Treasurer: Xianshuo Yue
A&S Reps: Ali Sadeqi and Nan Yi
Helpful Links
MGSO Grad student survival guide
MGSO Travel Grants
Eligibility Requirements
- The University of Pittsburgh Music graduate students completing master's or doctoral programs are eligible for one (1) MGSO travel grant per academic year if they present scholarly or musical work at an academic conference, festival, or professional meeting. $500 is the maximum amount requested.
- Applicant must submit a letter of invitation/proof of participation at a conference, meeting, or festival with the travel grant application, along with a copy of your presentation or composition’s abstract/program notes.
- If applications outnumber the available grants, a committee of two students and a faculty member will select the recipients.
- Original receipts (not invoices) indicating payment has been made in full must be submitted to receive reimbursement. Receipts should be uploaded as photos or scans in your application. The MGSO will reimburse for food purchases, registration, transportation, and/or lodging.
Three cycles for MGSO Travel Grants occur throughout the academic year:
- CYCLE 1: September-December
- CYCLE 2: January-April
- CYCLE 3: May-August
Contact the MGSO:
Email: MGSOinfo@gmail.com
Instagram: @upitt.mgso