Ensembles
The University of Oklahoma Percussion Ensembles program is a nationally recognized leader in the performance, publication, and recording of music for percussion ensemble. The Percussion Orchestra and Ensemble play several concerts a year both on-campus and off-campus. Additionally, the ensembles collaborate with other studios in the School of Music and other departments at OU. Through its commissioning series, the OU Percussion Orchestra and Ensemble has stimulated composition for the percussion ensemble, resulting in the addition of numerous works that have quickly become mainstays in the repertoire. Students at OU have the opportunity to perform in several percussion chamber groups including the OU Percussion Orchestra, the OU Percussion Ensemble, the OU Steel Drum Bands and the OU Marimba Band.
The OU Percussion Orchestra is the premier percussion chamber group at OU. The ensemble focuses on repertoire for 10-12 players and was influential in developing the now common large ensemble instrumentation featuring several marimbas, vibraphones, and other keyboard instruments in combination with 3-4 multi-percussionists. The Percussion Orchestra has performed at national conferences such as the Percussive Arts Society International Convention and the National Conference on Percussion Pedagogy. The ensemble has been featured in videos for the Vic Firth Company several times. Audition materials will be made available at the link below as auditions are approaching.
Vic Firth Videos Audition Materials
The OU Percussion Ensemble serves as a vehicle to introduce percussion students to collegiate-level playing and is also open to students of all majors by audition. The Percussion Ensemble regularly performs major works from the repertoire as well as newly written works. Additionally, students are given an opportunity to work together in smaller groups such as trios and quartets. Participation by students outside the percussion studio is by audition. For audition information, please contact Dr. Connor Stevens (Connor.Stevens-1@ou.edu)
The OU Steel Bands perform a several times throughout the year both on- and off-campus. Off-campus performances include community events, fundraisers, and regular performance tours to local and regional public schools. Musical selections include popular and traditional music from Trinidad and Tobago, contemporary pop music from the US, and arrangements of works from the Western Classical canon. The OU Steel Bands pride themselves on giving exciting performances and exposing both audience members and band members to music and instruments from other parts of the world. Additionally, the band hosts an annual OU Steel Pan Festival featuring guest artists and high school/university steel bands from across the state. Participation for students outside the percussion studio is by audition. For audition information, please contact Dr. Connor Stevens (Connor.Stevens-1@ou.edu).
OU Steel Bands Videos
The Pride of Oklahoma Drumline typically consists of 9-10 snares, 4-5 tenors, 5-6 basses, 7-10 cymbals, and 10-15 in the front ensemble. The drumline performs with the Pride of Oklahoma marching band each home game as well as away games, pep rallies, and community events. Additionally, members of the drumline have opportunities to perform at OU basketball games. The Pride drumline performs contemporary DCI-style arrangements, while also continuing the long traditions established in its 75+ years of existence. Auditions take place in the spring and summer each year. For more information, contact Mr. Benjamin Holmes (benjamin.holmes@ou.edu).
Other percussion performance opportunities include the OU Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensembles, and Jazz Combos. These ensembles give several performances each year including special events with guest composers and performers. Audition information can be found at the link below.
Audition Information
More information about:
Bands Orchestra Jazz Ensembles
