Instrumental Ensembles
From intimate chamber groups to a 40-piece orchestra, the College of Charleston's acclaimed instrumental ensembles showcase the virtuosic talent of our music students.
Throughout the year, these dynamic groups entertain and enthrall audiences both on campus and on regional, national, and international tours.
The B.A. in Music requires 3 credit hours in any of the department ensembles.
Orchestra
Be captivated by the rich, harmonious sound of the College of Charleston Orchestra.
Under the baton of acclaimed conductor Yuriy Bekker, this chamber orchestra of music majors and passionate non-majors and faculty presents stirring concerts throughout the year including performances at the grand concert halls of Charleston.
The orchestra has featured internationally renowned guest artists, including violinists Augustin Hadelich (2022, 2024) and Sarah Chang (2023).
In 2023, the College of Charleston Orchestra was one of four select orchestras to perform for the exclusive Capital Orchestra Festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This milestone concert featured Brahms' Academic Festival Overture and Hungarian Dance no. 1, and "Charlestonia: A Folk Rhapsody" composed by Charleston's own Edmund Thornton Jenkins.The orchestra will perform at Carnegie Hall in February 2025.
Chucktown Sound - Cougar Pep Band
Cougars, Fight! Fight! Fight!
The Chucktown Sound, led by Director Christopher Góngora, electrifies fans as part of the thrilling Cougar Basketball home game experience.
Composed of both music majors and non-majors, this dynamic ensembles offers students a fun way to showcase their musical talents while rallying support for the Cougars.
In addition to earning a scholarship and college credit, Chucktown Sound members experience the thrill of performing live before passionate fans while providing a soundtrack to untie students, alumni, the community, faculty and staff as part of the College of Charleston experience.
- Nick Nafpliotis and Nisan Ak, Directors
Jazz Combos
The centerpiece of the jazz experience at the College of Charleston, Jazz Combos perform inventive and electrifying sets on campus and at many of the various Charleston music festivals held throughout the year.
Unlike some programs where the emphasis is on larger ensembles, the five jazz combos at the College, each with its own instructor, provide you with a more individual and personal learning experience, with opportunities for players of all levels.
Individualized instruction by some of the best players in the field, combined with plenty of performance opportunities make the jazz experience at the College a complete musical experience.
Chamber Music
Join in on the enchanting interplay of instruments as part of the College of Charleston's skilled chamber ensembles. You'll bring to life the masterworks of classical and contemporary repertoire.
Coached by our esteemed piano and string faculty, these intimate groups offer a unique musical experience for both performers and audience members.
Wind Ensemble
The College of Charleston Wind Ensemble is an auditioned ensemble open to all students on campus. The group rehearses weekly and performs 2-3 times per year. Repertoire includes a wide variety of classic wind band literature.
Latin American Music Ensemble
Otro Sur: A non-auditioned workshop-style course in which students learn to perform folk and popular genres from across Latin America. Roles available for guitar, bass, percussion, winds, brass, strings, and vocalists.
