Ensembles and Applied Lessons

AU Ensembles are vibrant, well-supported, and an intrinsic part of the Aurora University community. Operated as a class, musicians perform frequently in concerts and at AU sporting events, both on and off campus, depending upon the ensemble. All ensembles are provided music, folders, and performing attire. All ensembles require permission to enroll from the instructor or chair of the department. Students should contact the instructor to arrange an audition before the first week of school is completed.

University Chorale

Open to musicians of all majors, the University Chorale is a large ensemble comprised of all voice parts and primarily focuses on vocal skills and the creation of a unified choral sound. Students study a variety of music chosen from across centuries, cultures, genres, and languages. The University Chorale performs at two concerts per semester and select campus events, as well as tours at no cost to the students. Contact Dr. Lisa Fredenburgh for more information and to schedule an audition.

Aurora Singers

A soprano/alto choir, Aurora Singers is dedicated to exploring literature and techniques unique to upper voices. Members study and perform music representing many cultures. The Aurora Singers performs two events per semester. Contact Dr. Lisa Fredenburgh for more information and to schedule an audition.

AU Band

The AU Band does it all. This band performs as a pep band at football and basketball games, as well as in three concerts per year. In the AU Band, students form friendships and have fun while bringing the Spartan spirit to athletic events. Students also build their musicianship as they perform together in concert events. Contact Michael Pavlik for more information and to schedule an audition.

AU Flute Ensemble

The AU Flute Ensemble is a chamber group made entirely of flutists. Students meet to explore this exciting genre while exploring new skills and reinforcing the fundamentals of flute playing. The ensemble performs three concerts per year and other performing opportunities as they come up. Contact Gianna Capobianco for more information and to schedule an audition.

AU String Ensemble

The AU String Ensemble performs a wide variety of music for strings that spans several centuries. Students advance their skills and continue to grow, making the investments in learning that all musicians make as young people. At least three concerts are performed per year. Contact Ms. Andrea LaFranzo for more information and to schedule an audition.

AU Vocal Jazz Ensemble

The vocal jazz ensemble explores jazz and contemporary styles through both group and solo performance. Students develop vocal technique while studying jazz standards, improvisation, and music reading, including lead-sheets. The ensemble explores music from a variety of styles within the jazz and popular traditions. The group performs in concerts and campus events each semester. Contact Dr. Mark Plummer for more information and to schedule an audition.

AU Drumline

The Drumline performs at football and basketball games, as well as on-campus events. The Drumline is a close-knit group of performers who love of rhythm and marching percussion. Students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, and learn a great deal from each other as musicians and individuals. Contact Jarrett Hicks for more information.

Mariachi Las Luces

The Mariachi Band explores the rich musical traditions and cultural heritage of mariachi music. Students develop ensemble and individual performance skills through the study and performance of traditional mariachi repertoire, with opportunities to expand into additional styles and selections. Emphasis is placed on musicianship, musical expression, collaboration, and confident performance on voice and traditional mariachi instruments. Through rehearsals and public performances, students build stage presence, performance practice, and concert readiness while gaining a deeper appreciation for this vibrant musical tradition. Contact Katie Samayoa for more information.

Applied Lessons

Applied lessons are an integral part of musical achievement as well as a chance to explore a new instrument. Students who have always wanted to learn piano, organ, guitar, wind instruments, strings, and of course, voice are encouraged to take these courses. The applied faculty is staffed with professional musicians who have a wealth of teaching and performing experience. Students receive .5 credits for a 30-minute lesson or 1 credit for a 60-minute lesson. Contact Dr. Cristian Pastorello for more information.

Lessons available in: