Student Departmental Advisers (SDAs) are seniors who serve as a resource for all current students, especially new students, who want to talk to a knowledgeable and experienced upper class student about courses and registration. They supplement the information and advice available through faculty advisers and published materials, and refer students to the proper office or department when needed.

SDAs are available for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Informal academic advising for students taking music classes (a supplement to your faculty adviser, but not a replacement!). Majors and non-majors are equally welcome.
  • Serving as contacts for prospective students about life in the Department and as a music major, music minor or music performance minor.
  • Serving as representatives when needed by the Department (assisting in selection of new faculty, providing feedback about potential policy changes, etc.).
  • Social programming and other fun things!

2025-26 Music SDAs

Bryce Bernstein ’26 (Music Majors)

I’m Bryce, and I am a senior Music and Computer Science double major at Carleton.

I have loved playing trombone since I picked it up in fifth grade. At Carleton, I participate in the Symphony Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Orchestra on tenor or bass trombone. I also love the academic side of music as well (though performance has my heart) and am happy to talk about my experiences with music courses, lessons, and ensembles. Music aside, I also love solving Rubik’s Cubes, playing video or board games, and programming. If you have any questions about the music major or the music department, don’t hesitate to reach out! 

Harrison James ’26 (Music Minors)

My name is Harrison James, and I’m a senior psychology major with minors in music and Spanish. 

I’ve been singing since I was in grade school and now am involved in the voice program here. I am a member of the Carleton Choir and take vocal lessons, and I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in chamber groups and perform at the end-of-term vocal showcase. Additionally, I started learning the piano during my freshman year. Outside of music, I work in the Health Psychology lab and am a member of the psychology Department Curriculum Committee. I love spending my free time doing crosswords and other word games as well as biking and reading.

TA/Tutors

The Music Theory TA is available to assist anyone taking music theory. Please don’t hesitate to contact your TA, especially if you’re having trouble in a class.

Brady Rivkin ’26 (MUSC 103, MUSC 110, MUSC 104, MUSC 204)

I play the trombone, sing, compose and arrange. I like listening to and/ or playing a variety of music including: large ensemble repertoire (mostly wind band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, and choir), chamber music (mostly brass quintets and trombone quartets), musical, ragtime, and, of course, just about anything that involves the trombone. My other interests are many, including accessibility advocacy, horseback riding, cognitive science, and the great outdoors.