Music Department

Any student may participate in a music ensemble, regardless of major, although some ensembles require auditions. Music ensembles meet twice a week for 1.5 hours each time. Participation in a music ensemble does not conflict with the regular class schedule, and it is possible to perform in more than one ensemble in the same quarter.

• College Singers and Chamber Choir
• Bach Festival Chorus
• Symphonic Band
• Jazz Band
• Kalamazoo Philharmonia
• International Percussion Ensemble

Academic Credit

• Credit can be given only to those students who actively participate in concert performances of that ensemble
• Ensembles accumulate credit at the rate of 1/5 unit per ensemble per quarter
• Ensemble and applied music credit may not be combined to complete a full unit
• Although no more than 2/5 unit will be awarded in any one quarter, a student may participate in more than two ensembles with permissions of the Department
• Different ensembles may be combined to complete a full unit
• Only one unit of ensemble credit may be applied toward the units for graduation
• A unit of credit in music ensembles may be used to fulfill the Area of Study Requirement in Creative Expression
• Only one ensemble unit of credit may be applied toward graduation and counted once in a 3-unit quarter load

Attendance and Grading

Ensemble grades are based on attendance and active participation. Students are allowed up to two excused absences per quarter, after which grades will be lowered for each absence. An excused absence is one in which the student has made personal contact with the ensemble director by means of a phone call, written message or message to the Music Coordinator (337-7070) PRIOR TO THE REHEARSAL. Absences from dress rehearsals or concerts are not permitted