McMaster’s musical ensembles are looking for new members as another concert season gets underway. Sign ups and auditions for new and returning members are now open for the 2023-24 academic year. 

An integral part of McMaster’s Music program in the School of the Arts, the student ensembles running for the 2023-24 academic year include the University Choir, McMaster Symphony Orchestra, McMaster Concert Band and McMaster Percussion Ensemble.  

The ensembles are open to current McMaster students in all faculties, providing them with the opportunity to explore musical interests and develop performance skills in a professional environment outside of the classroom. In addition to gaining performance experience, students may obtain three units of academic credit for their ensemble participation and performance. 

Details for each ensemble are below. If all audition slots are filled or if there are general questions about the audition process, students are encouraged to contact the ensemble director.  

McMaster University Choir & Cantemus Vocal Ensemble

Rehearsals for each group are held once a week. Students interested in auditioning for either ensemble as a new singer may complete the form and select an audition time, where they will perform a brief vocal audition. Returning singers may simply complete the form to apply. 

Specific audition information can be found on the McMaster Choirs page.  Any questions regarding the auditions, rehearsals, and concerts for either vocal group can be directed to the ensemble director, Professor Melanie Tellez. 

McMaster Symphony Orchestra

Auditions for new members are taking place from September 5-8, 2023 and time slots are currently open for sign-ups. Returning members must submit a recorded audition electronically by Sept. 8, 2023. 

Specific audition information can be found on the McMaster Symphony Orchestra page. Contact orchestra director, Professor Joseph Resendes, for further inquiries.  

McMaster Concert Band

The McMaster Concert Band welcomes enthusiastic and talented wind, brass, and percussion players across the McMaster community. Auditions for new members will take place from Sept. 5-6, 2023, and time slots are currently open for sign-ups.  

Specific audition information and the full list of audition excerpts for various principal instruments can be found on the McMaster Concert Band page.  The ensemble director Professor Joseph Resendes can be contacted for further questions and inquiries.  

McMaster Percussion Ensemble   

The Percussion Ensemble proudly performs a wide range of international music. Auditions for new members are currently open and the specific audition information can be found on the McMaster Percussion Ensemble page. This year’s Percussion Ensemble director is Michael Schutz. 

Further information about all of McMaster’s ensembles can be found on the School of the Arts performance site.