We are looking for instrumentalists and vocalists for our performing ensembles.  If you have experience playing an instrument or singing in an ensemble, please get involved in our growing music department!  Questions about the ensembles and courses in the music department should be directed to Dr. Kate Reid by email at kreid@cypresscollege.edu or by calling 714-484-7138. 

VOCAL ENSEMBLES

Cypress Masterworks Chorale

Cypress Masterworks Chorale  MUS 282 Director, Dr. Sheridan Ball

The Masterworks Chorale ( 80-110 singers) presents four major concerts each year with emphasis on masterworks for choir and orchestra.  Open to students and members of the community with prior singing experience.  The Chorale participates in regional music festivals, performs at numerous locations throughout the Los Angeles basin, and tours internationally.  Previous concert appearances include tours to Italy, New York, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. 
 

Chamber Singers

The Chamber Singers is a select group of 24 mixed voices performing in a variety of classical repertoire ranging from Renaissance madrigals to contemporary literature.  The ensemble performs four major concerts per year, participates in regional music festivals, and performs at numerous locations throughout the Los Angeles basin.  Open to both students and members of the community with extensive singing experience.

Vocal Jazz Ensemble

Vocal Jazz Ensemble MUS 287    Director, Dr. Kate Reid

This ensemble focuses on the rehearsal and performance of traditional and contemporary vocal jazz repertoire accompanied by a small instrumental ensemble.  Some emphasis will be placed upon vocal improvisation in the jazz style.  Student compositions and arrangements are encouraged.  The ensemble will perform in concerts and may also participate in jazz and choral music festivals in California and across the United States.  Previous performance experiences include Carnegie Hall in New York and festivals in San Luis Obispo, CA and Fullerton, CA. 
 

Jazz Improvisation

This course offers vocal students training in jazz song-styling techniques focusing on swing, ballad, Latin, blues, and contemporary styles.  Topics include rhythmic and melodic improvisation, microphone technique, and scat singing.  This class may work with instrumental combos and perform on campus. 

INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES

Jazz Band

This ensemble studies the rehearsal and performance of jazz band literature. Sight reading is emphasized as a musical concept. The band performs in concert each semester, and student compositions and arrangements are encouraged.

Jazz Lab Band

This ensemble deals with the rehearsal and performance of contemporary studio and commercial jazz literature. Sight reading is emphasized as a musical concept. The band performs each semester. Student compositions and arrangements are encouraged.

Jazz Improvisation

This class provides intermediate level instrumental students with the tools and techniques for jazz improvisation. Analysis of harmonic and melodic materials, extensive listening and performance exercises will assist the student in his/her development as an improviser. The class may be divided into small combos and perform on campus.

Cypress Symphonic Winds

Cypress Symphonic Winds MUS 274 Director, Bob Anthony

The Cypress Symphonic Wind Ensemble is dedicated to the rehearsal and performance of standard and contemporary literature for woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Performances required in the course of the semester may include concerts and tours.

String Ensemble

The Cypress String Ensemble is dedicated to the rehearsal and performance of standard and contemporary duets, trios, quartets and large ensemble pieces for the violin, viola, cello and contrabass. The ensemble participates in a department recital each semester.

Classical Guitar Ensemble

The Cypress Classical Guitar Ensemble is dedicated to the rehearsal and performance of standard and contemporary duets, trios, quartets and large ensembles pieces for the classical guitar. The ensemble participates in a department recital each semester.

Percussion Class

This is a course designed for students who wish to play drums, timpani, mallet instruments, and other percussion instruments. The class will emphasize basic music reading and rhythmical accuracy. Open to all students, no previous experience necessary.
The Percussion Ensemble may participate in a department recital each semester.

VOCAL AND INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES

Applied Music Program

For the student seeking individual instruction on piano, voice, guitar or any standard band or orchestra instrument. A performance at Faculty Juries is required each semester. Vocal and instrumental students are required to concurrently enroll in a vocal or instrumental performing ensemble. Guitarists and pianists should consult with faculty for an appropriate concurrent course.

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