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Jazz & Wind Ensembles

students playing instruments

Play on!

If you play an instrument and would like to continue making music we hope you’ll consider playing in the Wind Ensemble or Jazz Ensemble. These are open to any student by audition. These groups present concerts on campus in the Olin Theater, and play for campus and community events.

The Wind Ensemble brings students together to perform both the standard band repertoire as well as more contemporary works by currently active composers. These newer works for band tend to incorporate a wide range of musical styles which make the experience challenging and fun!

The Jazz Ensemble plays music from the classic big band repertoire as well as Latin, fusion and funk pieces. The Jazz Ensemble is also a great opportunity for piano, bass and guitar players to get involved in music at Roanoke!

Ryan Hunt '18

Ryan Hunt joined the jazz and wind ensembles to get experience that he believes will help him in his career goal to play piano professionally. The wind ensemble repertoire challenges Hunt to try new styles of music and different genres, such as jazz and improv. Hunt also worked as a photographer for the College's Public Relations Office and he was a senator with the Student Government Association.

Have some fun!

Concerts highlight both the ensembles strengths and their versatility. Past concert themes include Movie Night, Holiday Spirit, and Extravaganza.

Interested in joining us?

student playing instrumentWe have regular auditions and scholarships available — open to non-majors! Please contact Dr. Marc LaChance, by email or (540) 375-2357 for more information and visit our Music Performance Scholarships page.