Music
CWU Ensembles
Being part of the Central Washington University (CWU) ensembles within the music department offers a transformative experience that goes beyond simple musicianship. Imagine yourself joining the ranks of the CWU Wind Ensemble, the precision of your performance blending seamlessly with your fellow musicians to create a powerful sonic experience. Perhaps you'll lend your voice to the CWU Choir, where the intricate harmonies and complex melodies challenge you and highlight the emotive potential of the human voice. Or maybe the rhythm of the CWU Jazz Band will resonate with your spirit, leading you through vibrant improvisations and swinging rhythms. Each ensemble offers you an opportunity to learn, to perform, and to create. It’s not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about learning to communicate musically, to perform with conviction, and to connect with your audience. As a part of the CWU ensembles in the music department, you're not just a musician but an essential piece of a vibrant, living musical organism.
CWU Music Ensemble Opportunities
At CWU, there is an ensemble for everyone! From our large Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, or premier vocal group, the Chamber Choir to small Jazz combos or brass quintets - there is an ensemble for you. Browse the wide offering of ensembles listed below to find yours!
Orchestras
- Symphony Orchestra - Dr. Nikolas Caoile, Director of Orchestras
- Chamber Orchestra - Dr. Nikolas Caoile, Director of Orchestras
Bands
- Wind Ensemble - TBA, Director of Bands
- Symphonic Band - TBA, Director of Bands
- Concert Band - Prof. Kyle Edwards, Lecturer of Music
- Wildcat Marching Band - Prof. Kyle Edwards, Lecturer of Music
- Pep Band - Prof. Kyle Edwards, Lecturer of Music
Jazz Ensembles
- Jazz Band I - Dr. Keith Karns, Director of Jazz
- Jazz Band II - Dr. Keith Karns, Director of Jazz
- Jazz Band III - Dr. Aaron Burr, Lecturer of Saxophone
- Vocal Jazz 1 - Prof. Vijay Singh, Associate Director of Jazz
- Vocal Jazz 2 - Prof. Vijay Singh, Associate Director of Jazz
- Jazz Combos - Dr. Keith Karns, Director of Jazz
Choral Ensembles
- Chamber Choir - Dr. Nicole Lamartine, Director of Choirs
- University Chorale - Prof. Vijay Singh, Associate Director of Choirs
- Vox Divina - TBA, Director of Choirs
- Wildcat Chorus - TBA, Director
Small Ensembles
- Brass Choir - Dr. Jeff Snedeker, Professor of Horn
- Horn Ensemble - Dr. Jeff Snedeker, Professor of Horn
- Mariachi - Dr. Bret Smith, Professor of Music Education
- Percussion Ensemble - Prof. Joshua Gianola, Lecturer of Percussion
- String Chamber Groups - Prof. John Michel, Professor of Cello
- Trombone Choir - Dr. John Neurohr, Professor of Trombone
- Trumpet Choir - TBA, Professor of Trumpet
- Tuba & Euphonium Ensemble - TBA, Professor of Tuba and Euphonium
CWU News
Douglas Honors College at CWU to celebrate 50 years (part 1)
July 15, 2026 by Tran Nha Pham
CWU professor saving lives in Cameroon through his love of soccer
July 13, 2026 by Rune Torgersen