Bands and Ensembles

Athletic Bands

The Athletic Bands are a contingent of ensembles that embody the spirit and vigor of Boston University. Ensembles in the Athletic Bands program include Marching Band, Pep Band, Winter Drumline, Winter Guard, and the summer Scarlet Band. These ensembles are open to all students of BU, regardless of major, including graduate students. Membership is also open to students from other colleges who do not have a similar ensemble at the school. Athletic Bands can be taken for a Hub unit. Read more about these high-energy groups, watch videos, or check out the FAQ’s here. Email bands@bu.edu with any questions.

Concert Ensembles

The Concert Ensembles program consists of a full orchestra called the All-Campus Orchestra, and the Concert Band. These ensembles are open to all students of BU, regardless of major, including graduate students. Auditions for seating in these ensembles takes place during the first week of classes each September. If you miss the auditions please email bands@bu.edu and we will find a home for you.

Jazz Ensembles

The Boston University Jazz Ensembles consist of the BU Big Band (“Jazz Ensemble”), three Jazz Combos, and Jazz Workshop. These ensembles are open to all students of BU, regardless of major, including graduate students. Only Big Band & Jazz Combos are seated by audition, but there are no auditions for Jazz Workshop. Open positions in the spring will be filled as needed (email bands@bu.edu if you miss auditions or have any questions).

Chorus

The Boston University Symphonic Chorus is open to all musicians in the campus community: undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, staff, and friends. BU community members sing alongside music performance majors from the School of Music, collectively forming the premiere choral ensemble at Boston University. Each performance typically features a large choral work, often including orchestra and vocal soloists. The ensemble presents one concert each semester, including an annual performance at Symphony Hall, the home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.