The University of Iowa offers three concert bands each semester. The Symphony Band, conducted by Dr. Richard Mark Heidel, and the Concert Band, conducted by Kevin Kastens, are open to all students, regardless of major, by audition only. All new wind and percussion majors are expected to audition for Symphony Band or Concert Band. Auditions for these two ensembles are held during the first week of classes and may be arranged by contacting University Bands.

The 75-member Symphony Band (25:194, Section 1, 1 hour credit) performs two formal concerts on campus each semester and, on occasion, performs at state and national conventions. Selected members of this ensemble form the Chamber Wind Ensemble, which offers one-per-part soloistic performance opportunities in a flexible instrumentation setting. Symphony Band rehearses from 1:30 - 3:00 Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.

The 65-member Concert Band (25:194, Section 2, 1 hour credit) performs one concert during the fall semester and two concerts during the spring semester. This ensemble rehearses from 3:45 - 5:30 Monday (and Wednesday after the football season) during the fall semester and 3:45 - 5:00 Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the spring semester.

Students may register for the University Band (25:194, Section 3, 0-1 hour credit) without an audition and attend the first rehearsal. Rehearsals are from 6:30 - 8:00PM on Monday (and occasional Wednesdays during the football season) during the fall semester, and 6:30-8:00PM on Monday and Wednesday in the spring semester. This ensemble is an excellent choice for those who desire to stay involved in instrumental music performance.

2008 Fall Semester Audition Information: Auditions for Symphony Band and Concert Band are held during the first week of classes. Prospective music majors and music scholarship recipients (woodwinds and brass; percussion are assigned by Prof. Moore) are expected to audition for these ensembles. Also, any returning students wishing to audition for advancement into either Symphony Band or Concert Band should also audition the first week of classes. Beginning August 18, contact Rita Schmidt in the Band Office (335-1635) to schedule an audition day and time. Prepare two selections of approximately 1 1/2 to 2 minutes in length. One should be more technical in nature while the other should be lyrical. Sightreading will be included in the audition. More specific audition information, including audition location, will be provided for you when you call for your audition time.

The first rehearsals for Concert Band and University Band will be Monday, September 8. Members of these ensembles should plan to audition for chair placement during the September 8 rehearsal.

West HS Cambus shuttle schedule

Recent Symphony Band Repertoire