Cello Ensemble performs at presidents concert 2023

Ensembles

School of Music

Belmont University's School of Music offers a variety of performance opportunities that showcase the talent and musical diversity of our students. From classical chamber groups to popular music ensembles, the School of Music provides many opportunities for our students to practice and showcase their craft. Commercial instrumentalists have the opportunity to perform in commercial vocal ensembles, but an audition is required at the beginning of the year. To learn more about our performance opportunities, visit our website at cmpaevents.belmont.edu.

Vocal Ensembles

Bel Canto performs on stageBel Canto, directed by Dr. Lesley Mann.

Bel Canto performs music written or arranged specifically for treble voices. It is a large ensemble of 100+ voices and performs a varied repertoire of both sacred and secular literature. The ensemble performs two to three times each semester in several different settings.

Bel Canto choir is a choir for music and non-music majors. Rehearsals are Tuesday/Thursday from 2:00-3:15. Bel Canto offers one hour of ensemble credit.

For more information contact Dr. Mann.

No audition required.

Pops performs on stagePops, directed by Bailey Rankin, is a large mixed commercial vocal ensemble that performs a wide variety of musical styles. The group performs as several small groups that represent the range of genres the music industry incorporates. Pops includes a versatile band that contributes both as instrumentalists and creative arrangers. In Pops, students will gain industry-standard experience, performing all marketable styles of commercial music. In addition, students will prepare for experience in other vocal ensembles at Belmont. This will be achieved through rehearsal, instruction, coaching by peers & director and performing. Structure of the course will be organized to foster and execute individual and ensemble creativity.

Pops is open to sophomore-or-above Commercial Music Majors by audition. Rehearsals are from 3:00pm - 4:50pm on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Belmont Pops offers one hour of ensemble credit.

For more information, contact Bailey Rankin.

The Belmont University Chamber Singers* is comprised of about 20+ individuals from many backgrounds: Vocal Performance, Music Education, Music Business, Commercial Music, Instrumentalists, Theatre, Religion, Art, and English Literature. The members of Chamber Singers are chosen by audition. 

Chamber Singers performs on stageThe ensemble rehearses each Tuesday and Thursday.  The singers sit in a circle and have never used the piano as a reference during their practice.  A tuning fork is distributed to each member of the ensemble.  The use of the tuning forks has made a marked difference in the singer’s ownership of their participation in the endeavor of music making.

Repertoire for this ensemble is found in the vast compliment of unaccompanied choral music, again for reasons that seem to suit the rehearsal atmosphere and it also allows us to sing in most any environment.  The conductor of Chamber Singers chooses to participate along side of the singers in the circle and to guide them toward helping to shape the sound and character of the ensemble.  Everyone has a stake in the outcomes and may be rewarded equally in pride with the current product. 

Music director: Dr. Deen Entsminger, Belmont University. He may be contacted at 615.460.8207.

*Audition required

Chorale, directed by Dr. Jeffrey Ames

Chorale is the flagship, classical choral ensemble of the School of Music at Belmont University. It is also one of the earliest performing ensembles in Belmont’s musical history. This auditioned, mixed ensemble performs diverse literature from all genres, and is currently under the direction of Dr. Jeffery Ames, Director of Choral Activities.

Chorale performs on stageThe Belmont Chorale has a distinguished history. It has been recognized for its musical excellence with performances at MENC conventions and the Southern Division of the American Choral Directors Association. The ensemble tours annually and has enjoyed great success with European tours. International performances include the St. Moritz Festival in Switzerland (1985 and 1987), Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania and Yugoslavia (1989), England (2004), the Republic of China (2007), Italy (2011), Latvia and Estonia (2015), and The Republic of Ghana (2019).

The Chorale is open to all undergraduate and graduate students. Auditions occur each spring. Due to a rigorous performance schedule and annual tour, a commitment is required for the entire academic year. Rehearsals are Monday – Friday from 12:00-12:50pm. This course offers one hour ensemble credit.

Company Ensemble performs on stageCompany is Belmont University's award winning commercial vocal ensemble, directed by Bethany Merrit and choreographed by Anna Perry. The group performs fresh, modern pop music with electric choreography. Company’s style is influenced each year based on the strengths of its individual members but is rooted in a high-energy, pop/soul sound. 

Company includes a 5 piece rhythm section and performs in both the fall and spring semesters. Commitment is required for the entire year. Rehearsals are from 12:00pm - 1:50pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Auditions are required and held in the spring for the following academic year. 

For more information, contact Bethany Merritt.

Jazzmin, directed by Kathryn Paradise.

Jazzmin Ensemble performs on stageJazzmin is a 12-member mixed vocal jazz ensemble performing jazz literature dating from early Blues and Swing to Bebop, Vocalese, and Contemporary sounds. Jazzmin attracts students from Belmont's commercial vocal program who have an interest in jazz and wish to learn challenging choral literature. Jazzmin has toured extensively with trips to Atlanta, New Orleans, St. Louis, Chicago and other parts of the deep south, performing regularly on and off-campus throughout both semesters.

A two-semester commitment is required because of the preparation needed for the Spring tour. Rehearsals are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12:00pm - 1:50pm. Jazzmin offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Audition required.

For more information contact: Kathryn Paradise.

Musical Theatre students participate in numerous performance opportunities throughout their four years at Belmont.

Each year students participate in two fully staged musical performances which are produced in the Troutt Theatre, Massey Performance Auditorium or The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.  All sophomores, juniors and seniors are cast in a main stage production every semester. Visit our current events calendar.

The Freshmen showcase, created by the incoming freshman class, showcases the newest members of the musical theatre major. These freshmen also perform a vital role in working the technical aspects of the main stage productions their freshman year. This responsibility provides in depth understanding of the behind-the-scenes work required for a successful performance.

In addition, Musical Theatre majors at Belmont perform a half hour solo junior recital consisting of all musical theatre and commercial repertoire and a 50-minute senior show. The senior show is written, cast, directed and performed by the senior with full lighting and audio support.

There are also many opportunities across campus and within the Nashville community for Musical Theatre majors to gain audition and professional performance experience. For more information visit the Musical Theatre program page.

Belmont Opera Theatre, directed by Dr. Savanna Sokolnicki and Dr. Kristi Whitten.

Belmont Opera Theatre  presents two operas each year, one complete production with sets and full costumes during the Fall semester, and a staged reading with minimal costuming and set in the Spring. Past productions include: The Tender Land, The Impresario, The Magic Flute, The Merry Widow, Così fan tutte, The Medium, Dido and Aeneas, The Marriage of Figaro, Dialogues of the Carmelites, Sister Angelica, The Bartered Bride, The Ballad of Baby Doe, and Cendrillon.

Opera Theatre perform on stageBelmont Opera Theatre rehearsals are Monday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 to 4:50 pm.

Opera Theatre is an auditioned ensemble open to undergraduate and graduate students. Auditions are required and occur at the end of each fall and spring semester.  Participants enroll for one ensemble credit.

Director:Dr. Savanna Sokolnicki, Belmont University. For audition information or additional information about the Belmont Opera Theatre, please contact Dr. Whitten at 615-460-8216.

Oratorio Chorus is a large, mixed chorus of approximately 200 voices, that performs major choral works with orchestral accompaniment.

Oratorio perform on stageParticipation in Oratorio is required for all Vocalists and Music Education Majors. It is also open to students who are not music majors and staff, with permission of the director, Dr. Jeffery Ames. Rehearsals are held on Thursdays from 2:00pm -3:15pm with additional practices when necessary to prepare for an upcoming performance.

No audition required. Permission required for students not enrolled in another choral group.

For more information, contact Jeffery Ames.

Phoenix*, directed by Jamie Wigginton

Phoenix performs on stagePhoenix is Belmont's premier Pop Rock ensemble consisting of 8 vocalists and 6 band members.  The concerts feature powerhouse vocals, jaw dropping arrangements and world-class performances of contemporary pop tunes as well as earlier great hits.  "PHNX" is under the direction of James R. Wigginton.

Commitment for the entire year is required. Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00pm - 4:50pm. Phoenix offers one hour of ensemble credit.

For more information, contact Jamie Wigginton.

*Audition required

Southbound*, directed by Henry Smiley.

Southbound performs on stageSouthbound is Belmont University's country music ensemble featuring 8 singers and a 7-piece band. Southbound performs a mix of mainstream, top-40 and original country songs.

Commitment for both Fall and Spring semesters is required. Rehearsals are from 3:00pm - 4:50pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Music director: Henry Smiley, Belmont University. For audition information or any other questions, call 615.460.8208.

*Audition required

University Singers performs on fisher center stageUniversity Singers is also a mixed ensemble of 80-100 voices that perform traditional choral literature. Performances occur each semester, in addition to other major choral events within the School of Music. The University Singers is currently under the direction of Dr. Jane Warren.

This ensemble is open to all undergraduate and graduate students. It is a non-auditioned ensemble comprised of incoming freshman men, women, and transfer students. Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 - 6:50 PM in Hitch 130. University Singers offers one hour ensemble credit.

For more information contact Jane Warren.

Voxology performs on Fisher Center stageVoxology is Belmont University's premiere Gospel/R&B vocal ensemble, directed by Brian N. Seay. The group performs literature from a variety of Gospel & R&B artists, both current & classic, from Kirk Franklin & Anthony Brown to Mary J. Blige, JoJo & Liane La Havas. Voxology performs both Gospel & R&B in on-campus performances both the fall and spring semesters and tours locally in the Middle Tennessee area approximately three times each semester typically at church services on Sunday. The group is extremely popular and visible throughout the Middle Tennessee church community.

Commitment is required for the entire year. Rehearsals are on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in MPA15. The Voxology Band consists of 7-piece rhythm section & 6-piece horn section. Instrumentalists also must interview and audition with the director.

For more information, contact brian.seay@belmont.edu

Bluegrass Ensemble*, directed by Ryan Joseph

Bluegrass Ensemble performs on stage

Bluegrass Ensemble is an acoustic music ensemble performing challenging and creative bluegrass with an emphasis on contemporary artists and a variety of genres. The Bluegrass Ensemble offers performance opportunities for vocalists, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar, dobro, upright bass and percussion.

Any student enrolled at Belmont may audition. The audition will include improvisation, number chart reading, and harmony singing skills. A two-semester (fall and spring) commitment is mandatory for all participants. The Bluegrass Ensemble offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Interested students are encouraged to contact: ryan.joseph@belmont.edu 

*Audition required.

Instrumental Ensembles

Bass Ensemble performs on stage

Belmont Bass Ensemble, directed by Roy Vogt

The Bass Ensemble is comprised of 8-10 commercial bass players from freshman to senior years. Performances from the Bass Ensemble are always a great event filled with a cornicopia of music styles for the jazz enthusiast to the hard rock concert goer. The Bass Ensemble meets each week on Wednesday nights for rehearsals.

Contact Roy Vogt at roy.vogt@belmont.edu for further details.

Bluegrass Ensemble*, directed by Ryan Joseph

Bluegrass Ensemble performs on stage

Bluegrass Ensemble is an acoustic music ensemble performing challenging and creative bluegrass with an emphasis on contemporary artists and a variety of genres. The Bluegrass Ensemble offers performance opportunities for vocalists, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, guitar, dobro, upright bass and percussion.

Any student enrolled at Belmont may audition. The audition will include improvisation, number chart reading, and harmony singing skills. A two-semester (fall and spring) commitment is mandatory for all participants. The Bluegrass Ensemble offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Interested students are encouraged to contact: ryan.joseph@belmont.edu 

*Audition required.

Director: Dr. George Shannon II

Pep Band Ensemble performs at basketball game

The Bruin Blast Pep Band, which performs at all home basketball games and special school events, is open to all students on campus and is a great way to meet new people from various concentrations and majors across the university. The band also travels to the Missouri Valley Conference and NCAA basketball post-season tournaments. Past trips have included Tucson, AZ; Columbus, OH; Charlotte, NC;  Salt Lake City, UT; St. Louis, MO; and many others.

Here is some information to know:
Compensation: $25 per game (earn over $700 during regular season)

Rehearsals: Weekly from 6:30 - 8:30PM in September and October (no rehearsals when season starts)

Regular Season: November - February
Tournament Season: March - April (depending on team rankings)

Instruments: All wind band instruments including drum set, guitar, bass guitar

Experience: High school level (marching, concert, jazz, indoor percussion/winds, modern/rock band, etc).
Audition: No audition for wind players. New members who play drum set, electric, or bass guitar will complete a short audition. See the Bruin Blast Student Information Form for details.

To register, please complete the band interest form and the BRUIN BLAST STUDENT INFORMATION FORM. Feel free to email Dr. Shannon (director) if you have any questions.

One graduate assistantship is available through the University Band Program every two years for a student to assist with the administration and direction of the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, and athletic bands. Those who wish to pursue advanced study with an emphasis on conducting have ample podium time with the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. Belmont provides a unique setting in which graduate students receive concentrated attention from faculty, numerous performance opportunities, and frequent access to the Nashville music culture. To inquire about studies in music education, conducting, ensemble internships, or a graduate assistantship, please contact, Director of Bands, Barry Kraus, via email. Click here to view our graduate music catalog.

Chamber Brass Choir Ensemble posing for picture in front of McAfee Concert HallChamber Brass at Belmont University is an outgrowth of the weekly brass seminar class, where all of Belmont's brass majors are brought together to foster preparation for recitals and other performance situations. The groups rehearse weekly under the direction of Dr. Joel Treybig and presents a recital of brass music for a variety of instrument combinations at the end of each semester.

For more information, contact:

Joel Treybig, D.M.A., Assistant Professor of Music
joel.treybig@belmont.edu

Classical String Quartets, directed by Dr. Carmine Miranda

Classical String Quartets is a university student ensemble that studies classical string quartet and string chamber literature. Students prepare repertoire consisting of a variety of styles, time periods and composers. The engaging and challenging ensemble experience prepares students to be leaders and dynamic performers.

Undergraduate and Graduate students participate in one of multiple string quartets that are coached on a weekly basis by Dr. Miranda in preparation for a performance held each semester in Harton Recital Hall.

For more information, contact Dr. Miranda at carmine.miranda@belmont.edu.

Commercial Guitar Ensemble, directed by Dr. Alan Robinson.Bluegrass Ensemble performs on stage

Commercial Guitar Ensemble I studies and performs a wide variety of commercial music to include rock, funk, country, fusion, and jazz. The music will be arranged for multiple guitars and rhythm section. Ensemble members, composed of commercial guitar music majors, need to be prepared to read and on occasion create charts comprised of written notation, rhythm charts, and Nashville number charts. Members will also have opportunities to employ improvisation skills within the repertoire being rehearsed and performed. The Commercial Guitar Ensemble I meets in the evening every Tuesday and Thursday.

For more information, contact Dr. Alan Robinson at alan.robinson@belmont.edu

Close up of girl playing the french horn in the Belmont concert bandConcert Band provides wind and percussion players of all majors with an artistic opportunity to perform in a concert ensemble. No audition is required, but a short part-placement audition will be held to determine seating in the ensemble. Some university-owned instruments are available for use. The Concert Band meets in the fall and spring semesters on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:00-5:20 p.m. in McAfee Concert Hall and performs between four concerts annually.

Join the University Bands:

  1. Complete our band interest form to receive information about joining the bands. (Students from surrounding universities are also eligible to participate in the ensembles.)

  2. Register for Concert Band (MUN 4730) when you visit with your advisor for orientation in June or July. No audition is required for Concert Band.

Graduate Assistantships

One graduate assistantship is available through the University Band Program every two years for a student to assist with administration and direction of the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, and athletic bands. Those who wish to pursue advanced study with an emphasis in conducting have ample podium time with the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. Belmont provides a unique setting in which graduate students receive concentrated attention from faculty, numerous performance opportunities, and frequent access to the Nashville music culture. To inquire about studies in music education, conducting, ensemble internships, or a graduate assistantship, please contact, Director of Bands, Barry Kraus, via email. Click here to view our graduate music catalog.

Belmont Guitar Ensemble, directed by Robert Thompson.

The Belmont Guitar Ensemble provides an excellent environment for guitar majors, minors, and elective students to improve sight-reading skills and refining classical/fingerstyle guitar techniques while earning ensemble credit. Each semester students perform professional duo, trio, quartet and guitar orchestra arrangements and compositions. Repertoire includes music from the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern periods by a variety of composers from around the world.

Guitar Ensemble practices outsidesThe Belmont University Guitar Ensemble has done numerous live performances on Nashville Public Radio’s “Live In Studio C” show. The Guitar Ensemble made two appearances on the show in 2018. The Guitar Ensemble was invited to perform on “Radio Fest” which celebrated the show’s twentieth anniversary and included performances by some of Nashville’s finest musicians. The Guitar Ensemble was recently showcased on a webcast performance of “Live Lessons” hosted by Steve Krenz at Gruhn Guitars. A quartet from the Belmont Guitar Ensemble is featured on the Belmont School of Music Ensemble CD performing Paulo Bellinati’s virtuosic Brazilian composition, “Baiao de Gude” which they recorded at Ocean Way Studios. The ensemble has performed at Belmont's President's Concert, Christmas at Belmont, A Camerata Christmas, The Frist Art Museum and for the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). Members from the ensemble were featured on the CD release 'Christmas at Belmont' performing the 'Arabian Dance' by Tchaikovsky from 'The Nutcracker Suite' released on Acklen Records. The Belmont Guitar Ensemble was founded by its current Director, Robert Thompson. Since its inception the Belmont Guitar Ensemble has presented recitals on the Belmont campus each semester and off campus at some of Nashville's most prestigious venues for chamber and classical music. The group has performed at The Schermerhorn Symphony Center, McAfee Concert Hall, Harton Recital Hall, The Cathedral of the Incarnation and Wightman Chapel at the Scarritt Bennett Center.

Rehearsals are from 5:30-7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit. One required performance is performed each semester on the Belmont campus.

Music director: Robert Thompson, Adjunct Faculty, Belmont University. Interested guitarists may contact him at robert.thompson@adjuncts.belmont.edu.

No audition required.

Belmont Jazz Band plays some of the most challenging and stimulating music from the jazz repertoire. The ensemble performs diverse literature that ranges from big band swing to modern jazz-fusion.  This select group, consisting of five saxes/reeds, five trumpets, four trombones and a full rhythm section permits ample room for individual solos and full ensemble.

The Jazz Band performs several concerts each semester both on and off-campus. Past performance excursions have been throughout the Tennessee area. A two-semester (Fall and Spring) commitment is mandatory for all participants. There are two weekly rehearsals that members attend: Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Music Conductor: Dr. Jeff Kirk, Belmont University.
For questions or audition material, he may be contacted at 615.460.8107.

Audition required (with special audition for rhythm section).

Jazz Small Group, Director, Alex Graham.

Jazz Small Group performs on stageJazz Small Group (MUN 4950) is organized each year to provide experience in jazz performance for more advanced music students. The group is usually composed of 7 to 10 players including the rhythm section and performs commercial/jazz selections. Performances include a concert in both the Fall and Spring semesters.

Rehearsals are 3-3:50pm on Mondays and 2-2:50pm on Wednesdays in the Dynamo Room. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Audition required. For questions and audition requirements: 615.460.6408.

Close up of Jazz small group member playing sax

Jazz Small Group II & III

All varieties of jazz styles including swing, bebop, hard bop, soul jazz, free jazz, modal jazz, fusion, Latin styles, etc. will be covered, as well as hybrid styles that fall somewhere in between.  The course enhances students' understanding of the literature as well as enhances their skills as improvisers and accompanists. In Jazz Small Group II and Jazz Small Group III, special emphasis is placed on exploring the classic jazz literature and focusing on learning the basics of jazz improvisation.

Jazz Small Group II, directed by Kevin Gatzke
kevin.gatzke@belmont.edu

Jazz Small Group III, directed by Michael Valeras
michael.valeras@belmont.edu

Close up of Jazz band student playing instramentJazz Band II is a big band that performs a wide variety of contemporary commercial music. The ensemble is a feeder group for Jazz Band. Selected by audition. Performances include a concert in both the Fall and Spring semesters.  Rehearsals are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:00-6:30pm in the Dynamo Room.

Director: Jack Wengrosky

For questions and audition requirements call 615.460.6408 or email jack.wengrosky@belmont.edu 

Belmont Jazz String Quartet, directed by Tracy Silverman

Belmont Jazz String Quartet plays pieces that combine the classical tradition with jazz and other popular styles, including selections from the recordings of the Turtle Island String Quartet. The group frequently performs publicly in Nashville at such places as Bongo Java and in various Belmont recitals.

String Quartet Ensemble playing on stage

The Jazz String Quartet provides opportunities for individual players to improvise within the framework of each piece, requiring strong listening skills and an unusually high degree of musicianship. The integration of each member into the ensemble is the ultimate goal. The focus is on the preparation of jazz string quartet arrangements and development of alternative string techniques unique to the jazz string quartet such as comping, basslines, "the chop" and other rhythmic devices and styles.

Rehearsals are scheduled by the director. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

The New Music Ensemble performs significant music of diverse 20th and 21st century classical styles. Students, especially composition majors, are encouraged to bring in original works for the ensemble to rehearse and perform. New Music ensemble is open to all music majors.

New Music Ensemble is directed by Dr. Mark Volker, Coordinator of Composition

Our program offers exciting opportunities for rigorous training in classical and jazz keyboard styles, emphasizing performance in a variety of venues, both solo and in ensemble.  The piano faculty are committed to developing skills appropriate to our various majors: Performance, Composition, Music Education, Church Music, Music Theory, and Commercial Music.

close up of piano ensemble member playing the pianoPiano Ensemble, directed by piano faculty, provides pianists an opportunity to learn and perform literature written for more than one piano or for piano duet. Membership is limited to 12 pianists.  Requirements for membership include good sight-reading skills and moderately advanced technique.

Interested in learning more about the Belmont University School of Music Piano Department?
Contact: Kristian Klefstad

Click here to see our piano faculty.

Percussion Ensemble*, directed by Dr. Christopher Norton.

Percussion Ensemble performs on stagePercussion Ensemble is comprised primarily of graduate and undergraduate classical percussion majors from the School of Music. The purpose of the ensemble is to provide students with an opportunity to explore the world of chamber percussion ensemble music. Performance repertoire ranges in style, number of personnel, and includes both established "standards" as well as new compositions. The ensemble performs a full-length concert each semester in addition to selections on other Belmont concerts; the ensemble also performs off-campus.

While the ensemble is integral to the education of the classical percussion major, any student enrolled at Belmont who has a background in percussion performance and music-reading skills may audition; however, classical percussion majors will be given first consideration in the audition process.

Rehearsals are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:00 - 3:50 p.m. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Music director: Dr. Christopher Norton, Belmont University. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Norton at 615.460.6987 or via email at chris.norton@belmont.edu.

*Audition required

Rock Ensemble, directed by Dr. Paulo Oliveira.

Belmont's Rock Ensemble is a student group that performs a wide range of styles within the realm of Rock music. This group emphasizes instrumental repertoire from fusion to heavy metal and everything in between. Every member of the group has a high level of technical proficiency. Rock Ensemble is usually composed of six to ten students, including: guitar, bass, drums, and keyboard. Rehearsals are from 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm on Tuesday and Thursdays. Rock Ensemble offers one hour of ensemble credit, for commercial music majors only. Audition required.

For questions and audition requirements, contact Paulo Oliveira.

String Chamber Orchestra, directed by Dr. Christopher Fashun

The Belmont University String Chamber Orchestra is a university ensemble open to students of any major and faculty/staff members and provides an artistic opportunity to perform a diverse selection of repertoire that includes classical, contemporary, and globally influenced styles of music. This orchestra also collaborates with other School of Music classical and commercial ensembles throughout the academic year.

Strings Orchestra Ensemble pose for pictures backstage with their instramentsMembership is open to all students regardless of major and faculty/staff members. This orchestra is an ideal ensemble for non-music majors seeking a creative performance outlet with a less demanding time commitment. Some university-owned instruments are available for use. No audition is required, but a brief section/chair placement audition will be held during the first rehearsal of each semester. The String Chamber Orchestra meets in the fall and spring semesters in Room 303 of Belmont Heights Baptist Church and performs three to four concerts annually. The course (4740) String Chamber Orchestra is available for one hour of ensemble credit.

Join the University Orchestras!

1. Complete our Orchestra Interest Form to receive information about joining the Belmont Orchestras. (Students from surrounding universities are also eligible to participate in the ensembles.)

2. Register for the University String Orchestra (MUN 4740) when you visit with your advisor for orientation in June or July. No audition is required for the String Chamber Orchestra.

For more information, contact 615.460.8732 or email christopher.fashun@belmont.edu.

Symphony Orchestra, directed by Dr. Christopher Fashun.

Symphony Orchestra performing on the Fisher Center stageSymphony Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra of the finest string, woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians on campus. The Symphony Orchestra seeks to prepare classical and commercial music majors for successful careers performing professional level repertoire that includes classical historic eras, contemporary classical, globally influenced compositions, jazz, popular, and folkloric styles of music. A typical academic year includes, but is not limited to the following performances:
  • 2 standard orchestral concerts

  • Christmas at Belmont that is filmed for television and includes an orchestra feature and several collaborations with School of Music classical choirs and commercial ensembles

  • A featured performance every other year at Sounds of Belmont

  • The Classical Performers' Concert (the School of Music’s Concerto/Aria concert featuring outstanding soloists in the School of Music)

Membership is open to all students by audition regardless of major. Auditions consist of prepared excerpts that take place during Welcome Week. Information is posted on the MyBelmont website under ‘Ensemble Auditions.’ Stipends are available to qualified performers, and some university-owned instruments are available for use. The Symphony Orchestra rehearses Tuesday/Thursday from 3:00-4:50 PM, and the course (MUN 4930) is available for one hour of ensemble credit.

Join the University Orchestras!

1. Complete our Orchestra Interest Form to receive information about joining the Belmont Orchestras. (Students from surrounding universities are also eligible to participate in the ensembles.)

2. Participate in auditions for the fall semester (Symphony Orchestra only).

3. Register for the Symphony Orchestra (MUN 4930) when you visit with your advisor for orientation in June or July.

For more information, contact 615.460.8732 or email christopher.fashun@belmont.edu.

Wind Ensemble,
directed by Dr. Barry Kraus

Wind Ensemble posing for picture on the McAfee stageWind Ensemble comprises the finest woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians on campus. Participation in the Wind Ensemble provides exposure to diverse literature including chamber music and traditional and contemporary works for wind band. During each concert season, visiting conductors and composers interact with students as part of a comprehensive educational experience. The Wind Ensemble has given featured performances at the Tennessee Music Educators Association State Conference and the National In-Service Conference of the National Association for Music Education, and the College Band Directors National Association Conference. The ensemble tours each spring and has performed in Knoxville, Memphis, Chattanooga, Clarksville, and throughout the greater Nashville area.

Membership is open to all students by audition regardless of major. Auditions consist of prepared excerpts and take place during Welcome Week. Information is posted on the MyBelmont website under ‘Ensemble Auditions.’ Stipends are available to qualified performers, and some university-owned instruments are available for use. The Wind Ensemble rehearses Monday/Wednesday/Friday 12:00-1:50 PM, and the course (MUN 4900) is available for one hour of ensemble credit.

Join the University Bands:

  1. Complete our band interest form to receive information about joining the bands. (Students from surrounding universities are also eligible to participate in the ensembles.)

  2. Participate in auditions for the fall semester (Wind Ensemble and Pep Band only). 
  3. Register for Wind Ensemble (MUN 4900) when you visit with your advisor for orientation in June or July.

Graduate Assistantships

One graduate assistantship is available through the University Band Program every two years for a student to assist with administration and direction of the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, and athletic bands. Those who wish to pursue advanced study with an emphasis in conducting have ample podium time with the Wind Ensemble and Concert Band. Belmont provides a unique setting in which graduate students receive concentrated attention from faculty, numerous performance opportunities, and frequent access to the Nashville music culture. To inquire about studies in music education, conducting, ensemble internships, or a graduate assistantship, please contact, Director of Bands, Barry Kraus, via email. Click here to view our graduate music catalog.

World Fiddle Ensemble, directed by Ryan Joseph

World Fiddle Ensemble is a string music group that performs inspiring and innovative folk music from around the world. Belmont University's World Fiddle Ensemble offers performance opportunities for commercial string music majors, including violin, viola, cello, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and upright bass. Ensemble members will learn how to arrange, rehearse, and perform material from a variety of countries and cultures. This ensemble offers one hour of ensemble credit. 

For more information, contact Ryan Joseph.

World Percussion Ensemble, directed by Mr. Todd London.

World Percussion Ensemble performs on stageWorld Percussion Ensemble is an ensemble designed to explore percussion music from around the world. Primarily comprised of percussion majors from the School of Music, the ensemble aims to expose students to the widely diverse sounds of world percussion. From the steel drum sounds of Trinidad to the dance rhythms of West Africa, performers in the World Percussion Ensemble have the opportunity to learn about the instruments and techniques of a variety of musical cultures. As a result of this global exploration of percussion music, students also gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural traditions that drive the music-making process in so many places around the world. The ensemble performs a concert on campus each semester in addition to a variety of off-campus functions throughout the year.

Any student enrolled at Belmont who has a background in percussion performance and music-reading skills is eligible to participate in the ensemble. Instructor permission is required for those students who are not percussion majors.

Rehearsals are held on Thursdays from 4:30pm - 6:00pm. This course offers one hour of ensemble credit.

Music director: Mr. Todd London, Belmont University. If interested in ensemble participation, please contact Mr. London via email at todd.london@belmont.edu.

Faculty Ensembles

Faculty Jazz Ensemble performs on stageThe Belmont Faculty Jazz Group was founded by Anthony Belfiglio and Jeff Kirk in 2008. Coordinated by Anthony Belfiglio, the ensemble features various music faculty members as well as special guests from Belmont and beyond. The group performs each semester in Massey Concert Hall, and is also available for charitable concerts, festivals, conferences, and other events. Repertoire is stylistically diverse, including original compositions along with standards and arrangements from many different eras of jazz.

 

Brass Quintet Ensemble poses for photo backstage

Belmont Brass Quintet is comprised of School of Music faculty members at Belmont University.

The focus of this ensemble is on literature originally composed for brass quintet, and Belmont Brass Quintet recitals also commonly feature works arranged for such ensembles as the American Brass Quintet, Canadian Brass and Empire Brass. In addition to performing regular recitals at Belmont, the group performs often as guest artists at off-campus venues and has also performed at CBDNA, NBA, and TMEA conferences.

 

Woodwind Quintet posing on stage in McAfee concert hallBelmont Woodwind Quintet is comprised of School of Music faculty members at Belmont University.

The focus of this ensemble is on literature originally composed for woodwind quintet. In addition to performing regular recitals at Belmont, the group performs often as guest artists at off-campus venues and has also performed at CBDNA, NBA, and TMEA conferences.  The members of the Belmont Woodwind Quintet are current or past performers of the Nashville Symphony.

Camerata Ensemble posing for pictureCamerata Musicale - Artistic director, Dr. Robert Marler.

Camerata Musicale is one of Belmont's four faculty ensembles. It presents recitals and workshops each semester on campus and throughout the Middle Tennessee area. Camerata is the resident chamber ensemble of Belmont University School of Music and features some of Nashville's finest performers. Individual members are well known to the area as soloists in opera, recital and with orchestra. Many are familiar as principal players and members of the Nashville Symphony.

Contact Us

College of Music and Performing Arts

1900 Belmont Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37212

Phone:  615.460.6408