#COMBAconference26
The Florida State University College of Music, located in Tallahassee, Florida, is one of the largest and most comprehensive music programs in the United States. Established in 1901, it has built a rich history of excellence in music education, performance, and scholarship.
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The College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including:
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Performance
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Composition
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Music Education
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Music Therapy
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Music Theory
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Arts Administration
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Home to over 90 full-time faculty members and around 1,150 students, the College of Music prides itself on offering personalized instruction and fostering a vibrant, supportive community. Students have numerous opportunities to perform, with more than 500 concerts presented annually across 40+ ensembles.
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The College’s alumni and faculty have earned prestigious honors such as Grammy Awards and Pulitzer Prizes. Its facilities, including modern recital halls, updated practice rooms, and the Warren D. Allen Music Library, provide a strong foundation for world-class music-making and research.
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At FSU’s College of Music, tradition and innovation meet to prepare the next generation of artists, educators, scholars, and leaders in the field of music.
The Congress of Graduate Students (COGS)
COGS is the official student government body for all graduate, professional, and post-baccalaureate students at Florida State University. It advocates for graduate student interests, issues resolutions on important topics, and distributes funds through grants and support for graduate student organizations. Funding comes from a portion of the Activities and Service (A&S) fees paid by graduate students, with COGS overseeing the allocation of several hundred thousand dollars annually.
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The COGS Assembly
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The COGS assembly is comprised of elected representatives from all 15 colleges and schools at the Florida State University. COGS is led by an elected Speaker who is supported by an Executive Board comprised of an elected Deputy Speaker for Finance, Deputy Speaker for Judicial Affairs and Deputy Speaker for Communication. The Speaker is the official representative of all graduate students to the university and community, and coordinates all administrative work necessary for the efficient operation of the Congress. The Deputy Speaker for Finance, along with the Speaker, oversees the financial decisions and expenditures of fund, and is second in line to the Speaker and assumes all of the Speaker’s responsibilities in his/her absence. The Deputy Speaker for Judicial Affairs and the Deputy Speaker for Communication assist in the administration and activities of the Congress.
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COGS representatives and officers are elected to a one-year terms in the fall semester. Representatives are elected by the vote of graduate students in their respective constituencies (college, school, or graduate students as whole) during student government elections. Vacancies are filled by petition throughout the year. Executive officers are elected by the COGS representatives at the first meeting of the Congress, and upon vacancies.
Where to Park on Campus?
Parking will be available beginning at 5:00 PM on Friday, March 6, 2026, in the following locations surrounding the FSU College of Music:
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Street parking available along the north side of Park Avenue (between N. Copeland Street and N. Macomb Street)​​
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All locations are within a short walking distance of the College of Music and will be open for guest parking during the event.
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For additional parking information please visit the Transportation and parking map.
Where to Stay?
Where to Eat?
​BOB Hotels Tallahassee –
Boutique on Budget
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BOB Hotels redefines budget travel with stylish, modern rooms featuring luxury mattresses, smart TVs, and fast Wi-Fi. Located near Interstate 10, it's a short drive to downtown and the airport. Guests appreciate the self-check-in process, plunge pool, and on-site coffee shop.
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​Hyatt House Tallahassee Capitol - University
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Hyatt House offers comfortable, apartment-style accommodations ideal for both short and extended stays. Situated near the Capitol and universities, amenities include complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Its central location provides easy access to local attractions and dining options.
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Hotel Duval, Autograph Collection
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Experience upscale accommodations at Hotel Duval, a boutique hotel blending historic charm with modern elegance. Located in downtown Tallahassee, it's within walking distance of the State Capitol and Florida State University. Guests can enjoy contemporary rooms with spa-style rain showers and dine at the on-site Shula's 347 Grille, known for its premium steaks and seafood.
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Blossom Kitchen
Cuisine: Authentic Chinese & Sichuan
Price: $$
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A casual favorite offering authentic Chinese and Sichuan dishes. Known for flavorful classics, hearty portions, and convenient takeout, Blossom Kitchen is a go-to for students and locals craving comforting, freshly made meals.
Momo’s Pizza
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Cuisine: Pizza
Price: $$
Home of the "slices as big as your head," Momo’s is legendary among FSU students and visitors alike. This laid-back pizza joint dishes out massive slices loaded with toppings, along with cold beer and a casual, welcoming vibe perfect for group hangs.
Maple Street Biscuit Company – FSU
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Cuisine: Southern Comfort with a Modern Twist
Price: $$
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A popular breakfast and brunch spot near FSU, serving scratch-made biscuits, hearty bowls, and Southern-inspired comfort food with bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.​
JoEllen's
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Cuisine: Southern Comfort
& Soul Food
Price: $$​
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A downtown gem serving soulful Southern classics like fried chicken, shrimp & grits, and red velvet waffles. Known for hearty portions, a welcoming atmosphere, and live gospel brunches that draw locals and visitors alike.​
How to get Around?
Tallahassee is a car-friendly city, and having a car is helpful for getting to many places, especially outside of downtown and campus areas. However, public transportation is available through StarMetro, the city’s bus system, which serves major areas including Florida State University (FSU), downtown, and shopping centers. FSU students can ride StarMetro for free with a valid student ID.
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On campus, walking is the primary and easiest way to get around—FSU’s campus is very walkable, with most buildings within a 10–15 minute stroll of each other. There are also electric scooters and bikes available for short trips around town. While it's possible to navigate without a car if you stay close to campus or downtown, having one definitely gives you more flexibility to explore Tallahassee’s parks, restaurants, and neighborhoods.
