Auditions for the various ensembles occur the first week of school during the new student registration or whenever an opening occurs. As well as music majors and minors, any student enrolled in the university can audition and participate in our various vocal and instrumental performance groups. Our ensemble groups prepare for a minimum of one performance each semester. They also perform at various on and off campus events throughout the semester. The ensemble directors announce the details of these additional events as they are confirmed. You must contact the Music Department in advance to schedule an audition, or you can also submit a cd or dvd recording of your audition.
Instrumental
Wind Ensemble
The membership varies from year to year but averages about 40 people. The instruments involved are those in standard band literature. The repertoire consists of classical wind ensemble literature. The class meets three times each week.
Symphonic Orchestra
The membership varies from year to year but averages about 45 people. The instruments involved in this ensemble are those used in standard orchestral literature. The class meets twice each week.
Jazz Ensemble
The membership varies from year to year but averages about 15 people. The instruments involved in this ensemble are those used in standard jazz band literature. The repertoire consists of jazz and big band literature. This class meets twice each week.
Guitar Ensemble
The group averages about 10 guitarists each semester. The repertoire ranges from all varieties of classical music to jazz/pop and even original student compositions. The class meets twice each week.
Jazz Combo
This ensemble focuses on jazz improvisation in small groups. Depending on the enrollment, there are usually several combos which are student led while overseen by an instructor. The literature covers everything from older standards to newer light jazz compositions. In addition, since the class is not limited to just one performing group, students who wish to learn jazz improvisation are encouraged to enroll. Improvisational theory is covered throughout the class, and all instrumentalists who want to expand musically are encouraged to enroll. The combos meet twice each week.
Vocal
University Chorale
This auditioned ensemble is a mixed chorus consisting of about 80 singers. The repertoire is classical SATB literature. This class meets three times each week.
Chamber Singers
This mixed chorus of about 28 singers meet four times each week. The repertoire is primarily a capella SATB literature.
Ladies and Gentlemen of Jazz
This select group consisting of about 8 singers meets twice each week. The repertoire is primarily a cappella jazz and ballad literature.
Opera Theatre
This mixed group consisting of about 20 people meets twice each week. During class time, the group rehearses for the upcoming event. This event may be a musical, an opera or an opera scenes program.
