Concert Bands

 

 

 

Purdue Bands boasts one of the most extensive concert band programs in the country, offering five different bands with membership based on musical ability and a varied approach to programming.

The premier ensemble is the Purdue Wind Ensemble, directed by Jay S. Gephart, which features the finest instrumentalists on the Purdue campus. Its membership is by invitation only following auditions and usually numbers 60 wind, brass and percussion players.

Other concert band opportunities at Purdue include Symphonic Band, Fall Concert Band, Purdue Concert Band, Collegiate Band and Varsity Band. The breadth of opportunities allows students to participate on a level that matches their ability and interest – from the serious musician to the dedicated hobbyist. Each concert band rehearses two to three days per week for two hours each day, and presents two concerts each semester. Other faculty members in the department-Dr. Pamela Nave and Professor Ishbah Cox-also work with these groups. In recent years the Purdue concert bands have had the privilege of working with many of the world’s great band composers including Frank Ticheli, Timothy Mahr, David Holsinger and Robert Jager, David Gillingham, Philip Sparke, Roger Cichy and Steven Bryant.

Concert band membership is determined through auditions conducted each semester. Participating students earn two hours of academic credit each semester.

Brass players are also eligible to participate in Brass Choir directed by Ishbah Cox. A non-credit ensemble, it gives an annual spring semester concert and performs at special events.

Interested in joining Purdue Concert Bands?

Click here for audition information

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