At DePauw, music is for everyone, not just majors. Ensembles at DePauw welcome students from all disciplines, providing them with a chance to make friends, collaborate with the community and keep music in college life while pursuing any field of study. Many students, whether in biology, physics, English, computer science or other majors, join simply because they love music.
Students can sing and play instruments in concerts, galas or even international tours. Rehearsals are usually scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m., following academic classes. Students need to register for classes while being in the ensembles. Participation counts as a 0.25 credit course that appears on transcripts but does not contribute to a student’s full-time course load. Instruments are also available to borrow from the Creative School for those who do not have their own.
There are two types of ensembles, which are auditioned and non-auditioned. Auditioned groups require a short try-out where students prepare a brief piece to demonstrate their comfort level with the music. “It’s not to exclude anyone,” Craig Paré, director of University Bands, explains. “Auditions just help us match the music to the right level. For non-audition groups, the door is open to everyone.”
Auditioned Ensembles include:
University Band: Woodwinds, brass and percussion players are selected to perform advanced works with guest composers and conductors.
University Orchestra: Performs symphonies, accompanies opera and choral productions, and participates in international tours
Jazz Ensemble & Combos: Brings both big-band and small-group jazz to campus and across Indiana, often with visiting guest artists
Chamber Singers: A mixed-voice choir that studies advanced choral repertoire and performs in major concerts and tours abroad
Vox Anime: A treble-voice choir performing at concerts, galas, and abroad, open to all majors
Non-auditioned ensembles include:
Symphonic Band: Open to all students regardless of majors. The band presents a featured concert each semester.
Festival Choir: Brings together students, faculty, staff and community members across Greencastle, offering a chance to connect beyond campus.
Although it is past the deadline to add courses for this semester, it is never too late to reach out to the ensemble directors to share interest and plan for participation in the Spring semester:
- Dr. Bryon Black (Choirs) - bryonblack@depauw.edu
- Dr. Steven Snyder (Jazz Ensemble) - stevensnyder@depauw.edu
- Prof. Orcenith Smith (Orchestra) - osmith@depauw.edu
- Dr. Craig Paré (Bands) - cpare@depauw.edu
More information about auditions, rehearsal schedules, and upcoming events can be found on Instagram @depauwmusic or the DePauw Musical Ensemble website https://www.depauw.edu/academics/music/ensembles/
