Programs have been devoted to the music of Dufay, Desprez, Gibbons, Byrd, and Lassus, among others. The PENN Madrigals perform lighter music of the Renaissance. Rehearsals are on Wednesday afternoons. The Symphony Orchestra is one of the University's oldest musical organizations, with origins reaching back 100 years. The orchestra performs a wide range of standard and unusual repertoire from four centuries of composers, including concerti, choral, and contemporary works.
Membership is open to all students, faculty, and staff.
Auditions, held at the beginning of each fall term, consist of a prepared piece and sight-reading. Rehearsals take place on Thursday and Sunday evenings. The University Wind Ensemble studies and performs a wide range of repertory for modern, wind, brass, and percussion. Formed in 1978, the Ensemble emphasizes the development of individual musicianship and chamber music skills. Members regularly have the opportunity to meet and work with composers in preparing performances of their music.