Instrumental Ensembles
The instrumental ensembles at The University of Alabama are dedicated to performing the world’s finest repertoire. Internationally renowned, the ensembles have been selected to perform at the International Festival of Bands in England, national and regional conferences of the College Band Directors National Association, and the National Band Association.
Performing with these ensembles, students have premiered numerous works by noted composers including David Maslanka, Ira Hearshen, Nigel Clarke and Donald Grantham. The Alabama Wind Ensemble recently completed recording the works of Ira Hearshen that will be released nationally.
- Concert Band
- Contemporary Ensemble
- Early Chamber Ensembles
- Huxford Symphony Orchestra
- Jazz Ensembles
- Million Dollar Band
- Symphonic Band
- University Band
- Wind Ensemble
Chamber Winds
Wind players and percussionists are selected from the Alabama Wind Ensemble, Huxford Symphony Orchestra, and the Alabama Symphonic Band to perform selected chamber wind pieces. There is no separate audition process to participate in this group. The rehearsal time is in the chamber music blocks of the ensemble matrix.
Additional Chamber Music Ensembles
In addition to the large conducted ensembles addressed on this website, there is also a wide range of chamber ensembles offered through the studio experience and other curricular means. Some of the chamber ensembles include Chamber Winds, Jazz Combos, Percussion Ensemble, String Quartets, Brass Ensembles, Woodwind Quintets, and Trios. Please contact the studio teacher of the relevant instrument here.
Auditions
The Huxford Orchestra, the Alabama Jazz Ensemble, the Alabama Jazz Band, and the Alabama Jazz Combos typically hold auditions in mid-August, around the start of classes. Rosters for the Alabama Wind Ensemble and Alabama Symphonic Band will be posted on the University Bands website at the conclusion of auditions. Rosters for the Huxford Orchestra will be posted after auditions are complete on the Huxford board across from room 201. Rosters for the Alabama Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combos will be posted on the Jazz Studies board outside of room 201a.
For more information about auditioning for these ensembles, visit the page for the ensemble in which you are interested.
Vocal Ensembles
University Choirs
University Choirs are open to all students at UA, regardless of major. Choral ensembles at UA perform regularly with orchestra, sing in a variety of languages, and collaborate with the finest composers of today. All university choirs perform a variety of music from throughout history and around the world.
Students who sing in a choir at the University of Alabama will get to make incredible music, grow in their personal artistry, be part of a wonderful community, and experience the amazing power of singing together with others.
The University Choirs include
Visit the University Choirs page to learn more and see how to join each of the choral ensembles at the University of Alabama.
UA Opera Theatre
Join our exciting opera program! Training includes opera as well as musical theater styles ranging from the Baroque to the 21st century. For information about the opera program, please contact Prof. Paul Houghtaling and visit the UA Opera Theatre’s website.