SPECIAL EVENTS
To further enhance the musical experience of our students, faculty members create interesting concert programs that bring together different ensembles from the Department as well as the talents of other artists and academics from around the campus and the country. Here are some examples:
MULTIBAND POPS
Now in its 34th year, Multiband Pops is a fast-paced showcase event that includes performances by eight or more ensembles. This annual event, which usually takes place on Homecoming Weekend in the fall, often includes our Chapel Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble I, Minuteman Marching Band, Percussion Ensemble, Symphony Band, Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Wind Ensemble. The University Dancers, an ensemble of advanced dance majors, performs at Multiband Pops, and the event has recently expanded to include Chamber Choir as well. It attracts a sell-out audience each year that includes students, parents, faculty, administrators, alumni, community members and families from around New England and the United States.
UMASS AMHERST POPS GALA
The Pops Gala tradition, begun in 2004, has quickly become a Spring semester campus favorite, combining the University Orchestra with the jazz Studio Orchestra and UMass Dancers, in the style of the Boston Pops. The event generates sponsorship support for the Music & Dance Department and provides a delightful evening of music, dance, food and drink for the entire campus and local community.
CHORAL SPECTRUM
Choral Spectrum presents UMass Amherst choral ensembles in concert with the choirs of Massachusetts high schools and community music schools. Campus ensembles often include the Chamber Choir, Chorale, Madrigal Ensemble, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Women's Choir and Men's Choir.
STRING DAY
Conceived by the String Faculty in 2005, String Day has become an annual community event involving faculty, students, string players of all ages, parents and teachers. A vehicle for pre-college string students to experience music at the college level, and college students to learn about teaching, the all-day event includes a faculty concert, masterclass, an informal orchestra rehearsal and a mini-concert.
SAXOPHONE SYMPOSIUM
(Link to Saxophone Studio site)
This inspirational gathering of saxophonists of all stripes is now in its 27th year. Coordinated by Professor Lynn Klock and usually occurring in April, the day-long event features recitals by Klock, guest classical and jazz artists and professional level saxophone quartets. |
|
|
