Oct. 19, 2015
Abbie Stillman
[email protected]
The Visual and Performing Arts music and theatre program has expanded since it originated in 2007. The department now consists of eight different musical groups, said Colin McAllister, music program coordinator for VAPA.
Each group differs by musical style. Bands and performances include the University Choir, Mountain Lion Athletic/Concert Band, Jazz and Improvisation Ensemble, Electro-Acoustic Ensemble, VAPA Vocal Ensemble, Chamber Music Ensemble, Creative Music Ensemble and Chamber Orchestra of the Springs.
“It is a very important priority in life to continue your musical passion even after high school,” said Glen Whitehead, music director for VAPA.
Students can earn up to two credits for each program and can also qualify for scholarships within the music department.
Each program is different.
The University Choir and Chamber Music Ensemble both require an audition.
The Mountain Lion Athletic/Concert Band acts as a hybrid for the music and sports department. They perform at all home basketball games.
Creative Music Ensemble, which is only offered as a spring semester course, is an exploration of improvised contemporary repertoire.
Chamber Orchestra of the Springs is a one-credit program where students receive a scholarship for their membership. They work directly with Thomas Wilson, the director of the COS.
Students are not required to be a music major or minor to participate in these programs.
“There are a lot of growing possibilities and opportunities within the music department” Whitehead said.
“Musicianship and being a musician should never have to stop when getting to college. The arts should be a central activity in our lives,” he said.
The department will move to the Ent Center for the Arts when the building is completed, it is expected to open in January 2018.
All performances are free for students. Students that would like to learn more about the music program can visit uccs.edu/vapa/music.html or check out the concert calendar at uccs.edu/vapa/news-and-events.html.