Small Ensembles

Guitar Ensemble

Conceived in 1985 as a chamber group, the UMD Guitar Ensemble quickly grew to a diverse group which performs jazz, rock, and standards. The ensemble includes bass, drums, and other percussion in its membership. Music for the group is written especially for seven to ten guitars with rhythm section by students and nationally known composers. The group's three yearly concerts include singles, duos, and ensembles performed by members and special guests under the direction of Billy Barnard, Jazz Faculty.

Click here to see more pictures of the UMD Guitar Ensemble in concert.

Percussion Ensemble

The UMD Percussion Ensemble, directed by Eugene Koshinski, rehearses twice a week and performs at least one concert per semester. This group performs a wide variety of literature including historically significant works; contemporary trends in percussion ensemble literature; world music; elements of popular music; and brand new works for percussion. From time to time, individual students become featured performers while internationally recognized guest artists often travel to UMD to perform with the ensemble. In addition, the director typically performs with the ensemble offering the students a unique side-by-side experience. The Percussion Ensemble is comprised of both music majors and non-music majors and typically has ten to fifteen members.

Sound Clip Info: Wart Hog #3 by Austin Wrinkle

Wind Chamber Ensembles

UMD offers many opportunities for students to participate in small wind chamber ensembles. Mixed groups such as brass or woodwind quintets are currently offered as well as instrument-specific groups such as trumpet ensemble, flute choir, and trombone ensemble. These groups are instructed by UMD music faculty members and perform at various functions and events throughout the year.