Course descriptionAlfred University students have many opportunities for musical study and performance, regardless of their degree program. In addition to introductory and special topics courses, students can take piano and voice classes or study privately in voice, piano and a variety of instruments. They may even choose to learn to play the Davis Memorial Carillon. Students have unlimited access to fine pianos and practice rooms. String, woodwind and brass instruments are available for rent. The Division of Performing Arts offers a music minor.
Music Ensembles
Students have a wide range of opportunities innumerous ensembles, both large and small, vocal and instrumental. Smaller ensembles may require an audition.
• University Chorus - The University Chorus is open to any student who enjoys singing and performing in a large mixed vocal ensemble. The group has a reputation for creative programming, including classical selections, jazz and contemporary music, spirituals, folk songs and Broadway hits. The chorus often performs a major work with the Symphony Orchestra. For additional information, contact Dr. Luanne Crosby, director, via email or 607.871.2572.
• Chamber Singers - This is a select group of 25 to 30 singers that performs a wide variety of music, from classical to folk, global, jazz and popular. The group performs on and off campus, touring internationally every three to four years; the most recent tour (2007) was to Greece and Bulgaria.
• Symphony Orchestra - The AU Symphony Orchestra offers instrumentalists the opportunity to study and perform music ranging from the Baroque Era to the Twentieth Century. Each semester, visiting artists as well as student soloists are featured in performance with the Orchestra. Bi-annually, the Orchestra joins with the Chorus and Chamber Singers to perform large choral works, such as Orff's "Carmina Burana,” Mozart's "Requiem,” Handel's "Messiah," Bach’s “Magnificat,” and Vivaldi's "Gloria." Auditions are not required.
• Jazz Ensemble - The Jazz Ensemble performs a wide variety of jazz in a standard Big Band setting. Students are encouraged to develop their skills in ensemble playing and to experiment with improvisation.1.
• Concert Band - The Concert Band is open to any student who plays a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument, regardless of major. The repertoire ranges from orchestral transcriptions to original works composed for band or wind ensemble, from the Baroque and Renaissance to the avant-garde.