Music at Hamilton
Chamber Ensembles
The Chamber Ensembles program includes several standing groups – Brass Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble, Hamstrings Quartet, and Piano Duet Class; additional groups form based on interest. Each group meets once a week for coaching with a member of the full time or adjunct music faculty, rehearses at least once a week on their own, and performs multiple times a semester both on and off campus. Typically at least 40 students participate in a chamber ensemble each semester.
Chamber ensembles perform in informal and innovative formats such as the Chamber Music Crawl and previously in the Sight/Sound/Spoken collaboration with art and creative writing students. Students also have the opportunity to hear and occasionally work with the professional chamber groups featured on the College's Performing Arts series.
Current college-wide COVID-19 protocols require that unvaccinated students and employees must be masked at all times. For information about COVID-19 protocols for ensembles that were followed during 2020-2021, see the COVID-19 page.
Coordinator & Brass Ensemble Director: Heather Buchman
Coaches: adjunct music faculty members
Rehearse 2 hours per week
Membership determined by audition
Applications and Auditions
Submitting a Recording With Your College Application
Experienced orchestral instrumentalists (violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, classical saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, tuba, harp, and percussion) applying to Hamilton College are encouraged to submit a recording as part of their application. Music recordings for applications to the College are submitted online with your application, and shared with the appropriate faculty member for review. Please include two musical works (or movements of works) that demonstrate contrasting styles, and that best show your musical abilities.
Auditions for Orchestra and Chamber Ensembles
Auditions for both Orchestra and Chamber Ensembles take place the day before classes start. Both new and returning students need to audition at the beginning of every year. A signup sheet will be posted during Orientation outside of List 235. Students who wish to join Orchestra or chamber groups in the spring semester can email Heather Buchman to schedule an audition.