Belhaven Hosts International Guild of Musicians in Dance Conference

JACKSON, Miss. (August 27, 2025) — Belhaven University will host the 2025 International Guild of Musicians in Dance (IGMD) Conference Sept. 5-7 in the Bitsy Irby Visual Arts and Dance Center.

IGMD, founded in 1990, is the oldest professional organization for musicians in theatrical dance. The guild includes more than 300 members worldwide, including dance musicians, music directors, choreographers, teachers, and administrators. IGMD’s mission is to advance artistic excellence, promote education in the field, preserve the history of dance music, and strengthen collaboration between music and dance professionals.

The 2025 conference theme, “Ghost Heroes and Servant Souls,” marks the guild’s 35th anniversary. The event will honor past contributions to the field while encouraging future growth in music for theatrical dance.

Belhaven students, faculty, and community members can attend dance classes, sessions, and an improvisational performance on Saturday, Sept. 6. Participants will explore the collaborative relationship between music and dance and gain new tools for creative projects. Day passes for Saturday’s activities cost $20 per person.

“The 2025 International Guild of Musicians in Dance Conference gives Belhaven University dance and music students a rare opportunity to work with leading musicians from across the U.S. and abroad,” said Owen Rockwell, assistant professor of dance and director of the 2025 International Guild of Musicians in Dance Conference. “This experience comes at a critical point in their career development and highlights Belhaven as a leader in the field of music in dance.”