I am deeply honored to serve as Dean of The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. Although I joined the Crane community in July 2026, I have long admired its remarkable history, distinguished reputation and enduring legacy. It is a privilege to help lead a school whose impact on music education and performance has been felt for generations, and I am committed to building upon that tradition as we look toward the future.
Since the founding of SUNY Potsdam in 1816 and the realization of Julia Crane’s visionary dream for a music school in 1886, Potsdam and Crane have stood as symbols of excellence, innovation, and artistic leadership. While the world around us continues to evolve, the need for creativity, expression and human connection through music remains constant. Crane is uniquely positioned to prepare students for meaningful and successful lives by providing exceptional artistic training, transformative educational experiences and opportunities for personal growth.
What excites me most about Crane is its people and its sense of purpose. Crane is a place where aspiring musicians, educators, composers and creators find both challenge and support—a community that nurtures excellence while fostering belonging. Founded by a visionary woman at a time when women could not yet vote, Crane's history reminds us of the power of courage, imagination and perseverance. That same spirit continues to inspire our work today and empowers us to shape the future of music and music education.
I am proud to be a part of this extraordinary community and look forward to welcoming all who share a passion for music, a commitment to excellence and a desire to make a difference in the world through the arts.
~ Andrew M. Mast
Dean, The Crane School of Music
SUNY Potsdam