A symphony of musical opportunities at Yale

If you play the piccolo, you're all set; if you play the tuba, start thinking now how to pack it. No matter what instrument you play, make sure to lug it along this August, because you will want to be a part of Yale's music scene. With a wide range of styles and selections, competitiveness and time commitment, Yale's music groups suit almost any incoming musician.

With a demanding repertoire and monthly performances, the 32-year-old Yale Symphony Orchestra (YSO) is one of the nation's finest undergraduate orchestras. Led by distinguished conductor Shinik Hahm, the YSO has featured soloists such as cellist Yo Yo Ma and clarinetist David Shifrin. Students can share the limelight through programs such as the annual William Waite Concerto Competition and the Undergraduate Composition Contest.

The Yale Concert Band, another highly respected Yale group, plays an extremely diverse selection of music. Conducted by Music Professor Thomas Duffy, a Pulitzer-nominated composer, the Concert Band performs both premieres of original compositions and traditional wind ensemble pieces.

From swing dances to bebop to Latin jam sessions, the Yale Jazz Ensemble (YJE) is a hard act to beat. Performing a variety of upbeat musical genres such as swing and funk, the YJE has played at the Village Vanguard and even hosted the Ivy League Jazz Festival. On some nights, members can also be seen at residential college parties playing in small combos.

A number of other student-run ensembles regularly perform on campus, including the Bach Society Orchestra, the Berkeley Chamber Orchestra, the combined Silliman and Jonathan Edwards Chamber Players, and the Pierson Camerata. These groups provide further and lower-pressure opportunities to conduct, compose, and perform. Many students play in one or more of these smaller ensembles in addition to one of the larger groups. Since anyone may become a member of any residential college orchestra, these intimate groups are a great way for freshmen to meet people outside of their usual spheres.

Students looking for something a little different should try the Yale Precision Marching Band (YPMB). Although the band isn't terribly precise and doesn't really march, its lively halftime antics and humorous formations have made it a perennial favorite at the football and hockey home games.

Being a music major is not a prerequisite for participating in any of these groups. As in all other facets of life at Yale, there is always room for student innovation. Students can always form their own orchestras or bands or just pick up an instrument and jam by themselves.

Many students also take advantage of private lessons. By auditioning with Yale School of Music professors, students can take lessons with faculty members or graduate students for credit or just for personal edification. Placement for these lessons is generally based upon ability and experience, though there are different standards for each instrument. To receive credit for private lessons, students must also enroll in music theory.

With so many groups out there from which to choose, there is no excuse for not continuing all your musical endeavors at Yale; it's just a matter of finding the right balance of organized and individual performing. Bring along your instrument, scout out the possibilities during your first weeks on campus, and become part of the Yale music scene.

Graphic by Karen Rosenberg

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