WMU Ensembles

The performing ensembles at Western Michigan University have assumed a significant role in the cultural, educational and aesthetic environment of the greater university community. Additionally, as they have traveled throughout Michigan, the United States, South America, Europe and Asia, these performing ensembles have favorably extended Western's distinguished reputation of excellence in the arts.

The educational process of ensemble training culminates in a variety of concerts and recitals. In a recent ten-year period, the School of Music at Western Michigan University presented nearly 4,300 concerts for audiences totaling well over 1,100,000 persons. This included over 2,300 campus events, extensive touring in Michigan plus concerts in 35 other states and 15 foreign countries.

These ensembles serve a dual function for students at Western Michigan University. The music major is offered a variety of professional opportunities, each of which is dedicated to thorough preparation and high standards of performance. Equally important, however, is the opportunity offered to other musically inclined students who may wish to continue enriching experiences they enjoyed prior to university enrollment.

Student chamber ensembles, such as the Russell Brown Brass Quintet, Graduate Wind Quintet, and Graduate Brass Quintet, meet and perform regularly each semester.