Students perform at an intermediate level of proficiency upon completion. There are several jazz combos consisting of six members or less that regularly rehearse with coaches. It is in these combos that members hone their skills of improvisation while learning repertoire. Students perform at University functions while preparing to become professional performing artists. Student written compositions and arrangements are encouraged and performed in this creative atmosphere.
Membership is open to all students by audition.
The Brass Choir, often augmented with percussion, woodwinds, organ, or harp, gives several concerts a year and has performed twice at the national convention of the American Brass Society. The group performs standard large brass ensemble compositions plus smaller chamber works. This ensemble regularly performs for important University ceremonial functions such as commencement. There are two percussion ensembles at the University, both conducted by Julia Hillbrick . The top ensemble perform advanced concert literature with an emphasis on symphonic works written for percussion instruments within the last two decades.