Music Ensembles

Music
Faculty & Staff
Ensembles
Auditions & Scholarships
Events
Summer Intensive: Kodály
News & Accomplishments

Bands

EWU Marching Band

EWU Marching Band: Our marching band is one of the most dynamic and spirited groups on campus. Repping EWU with pride and bringing the hype to every Eastern Eagles Football (NCAA Division I FCS) game, this group is all about music, movement, and school spirit. If you love performing and bringing the noise, join the squad.

Code Red: This is EWU’s premier athletic band, known for turning up the energy at select basketball and volleyball games, campus and community events, and recruiting tours. The group is comprised of the most talented and dedicated musicians from the marching band, offering elite performance opportunities and unforgettable memories. Code Red members are selected by audition and receive scholarships. For more information, contact Mike Cleary at mcleary1@ewu.edu.

Wind Ensemble: The EWU Wind Ensemble is a select group of woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians focused on performing powerful and inspiring ensemble works. The group plays regularly on and off campus—including tours to regional schools—giving members the chance to perform in various venues and connect with the music community. All EWU students are welcome to audition, no matter their major. Contact Mike Cleary at mcleary1@ewu.edu to learn more and schedule an audition.

Mariachi Las Águilas: One of the few mariachi groups in the Inland Northwest, Mariachi Las Águilas is where music, culture, and community come together. We are fueled by music, culture, and the spirit of belonging. Rooted in tradition and driven by the energy of a new generation, our university mariachi brings the vibrant sounds of Mexico to life where every song tells a story. Students can also receive scholarships as members of this ensemble. Mariachi Las Águilas is under the direction of leading mariachi clinician, Daisy Cardona. To join or book us for a performance, reach out to dcardona2@ewu.edu and be sure to follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and show announcements!

Orchestra

The EWU Orchestra is comprised of both music majors and qualified non-music majors. The orchestra regularly performs on and off campus, including EWU’s Showalter Auditorium and the Fox Theater in Spokane.

During the Fall and Winter quarters, the orchestra focuses on music for the String Orchestra. In the Spring quarter, winds, brass, and percussion are added to perform standard full orchestra repertoire and concertos.

The EWU Orchestra has a strong association with the Spokane Symphony Orchestra (SSO). All of the EWU string faculty are principal members of the SSO, and 10 EWU alumni are also members of the SSO. James Lowe, Music Director of the SSO, visits the Music Program several times during the year to work with the orchestra and composers.

The EWU Orchestra and SSO also combine for “side by side” concerts. This collaboration is unique in our region, and EWU students benefit from the relationship.

Please check out our EWU Orchestra Channel on YouTube and our EWU Orchestra Facebook page:

The EWU Orchestra rehearses on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. There is some flexibility for non-music majors with class conflicts.

For more information about the EWU Orchestra, please contact Dr. John Marshall at jsmarshall@ewu.edu.

Choirs

Whether you’re looking to sing in a big ensemble or tight-knit vocal group, there’s a place for you in EWU’s vibrant choral program. Some choirs require an audition or placement interview, usually during the first week of fall quarter. 

Got questions? For choirs, contact Dr. Kristina Ploeger-Hekmatpanah at kploeger@ewu.edu. For opera or musical theater, reach out to Dr. Nicole Sonbert at nsonbert@ewu.edu or Mr. Scott Rednour at srednour@ewu.edu.

Symphonic Choir

The Symphonic Choir at EWU is a prestigious concert choir that gives members opportunities to perform inspiring choral works, participate in spring tours, and collaborate with groups like the EWU Orchestra and Spokane Symphony Chorale. Members sing classic and contemporary pieces, attend conventions, and engage with the local music scene. This year-long ensemble is open to all EWU students by audition and is ideal for those looking to improve their vocal skills.

To request audition music or learn more about the audition process, contact Dr. Kristina Ploeger-Hekmatpanah at kploeger@ewu.edu

 

ACDA Choir

The EWU chapter of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) is a supportive community for students passionate about choral music, education, and performance. We’re dedicated to creating meaningful and inclusive singing experiences, exploring diverse musical styles, and building strong musicianship through collaborative rehearsal and performance. Whether you are pursuing a music career or just want to sing with a group, EWU ACDA is a place to grow, connect, and sing together. Learn more and get involved at eaglesync.ewu.edu/acda/home.

Collegians (Vocal Jazz I)

Collegians (Vocal Jazz I) is all about learning and performing vocal jazz. This energetic group performs throughout the year at concerts, educational outreach events, tours, and conventions, giving members numerous opportunities to shine on stage. Auditions are open to all enrolled EWU students, so if you have talent and passion, we want to hear from you! Please note that members must have flexible schedules to perform regularly and provide their own formal wear for concerts.

To request audition music or learn more about the audition process, contact Dr. Kristina Ploeger-Hekmatpanah at kploeger@ewu.edu

 

Concert Choir

Concert Choir is EWU’s no-audition, all-inclusive choir open to any EWU student who loves to sing—no experience is needed! It’s a fun, welcoming group where you’ll hone your skills, make friends, and perform in at least one concert each quarter, often alongside the Symphonic Choir. Just sign up, show up, and commit to being part of something exceptional.

Jazz

Jazz Bands: EWU’s Jazz Program is one of the most exciting and innovative in the Inland Northwest. You’ll perform classic big-band hits as well as modern compositions by renowned composers and arrangers from around the world. You’ll also get to play original pieces created by our talented faculty and fellow students, giving you a truly unique experience.

Concert Jazz Orchestra: This is EWU’s premier jazz orchestra where members have the opportunity to perform jazz standards and fresh, new compositions in the jazz style. With concerts held every term, you’ll get plenty of chances to showcase your skills. Auditions are required, so if you’re ready to take your playing to the next level, we want to hear from you. Please contact the Music Program Director at jgraves@ewu.edu.

Rep Jazz: If you love to play jazz, and enjoy jamming in a group, this is your chance. The Rep Jazz ensemble is open to all EWU students in winds, brass, percussion, keys, and rhythm sections. For more information, please contact the Music Program Director at jgraves@ewu.edu.

Jazz Combos: In EWU’s Jazz Combos, you’ll dive into jazz and jazz improvisation in a small group setting, all while being mentored by one of our exceptional jazz instructors. You’ll perform regularly throughout the quarter, so you’ll have numerous opportunities to fine-tune your skills, collaborate with fellow musicians, and get real-world performance experience in a supportive, creative environment.

A student plays the drums while another plays guitar during EWU Jazz Night

Music Education Clubs & Organizations

Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA)

Calling all future music teachers! The EWU chapter of the WMEA is your go-to student group for all things music education. Gain access to valuable resources, interactive workshops, and a strong professional network. As a member, you’ll also be part of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME), so you can attend exciting events at the state, regional, and national levels. For more details, visit wmea.org.

Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)

The EWU chapter of the MTNA gives you real-world experience in the music industry and helps you build valuable leadership skills. From planning themed concerts to promoting music in the community, the projects go beyond the classroom to give you hands-on experience. There are also trips to state and national MTNA conferences, so you can expand your network and get inspired. Explore the possibilities at mtna.org.

Chamber Groups

Chamber music at EWU gives you the chance to be part of small, focused ensembles that explore everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions.

Groups usually include string quartets, piano and strings, or cool combos of strings, woodwinds, and brass. You’ll get weekly coaching from faculty, plenty of rehearsal time, and lots of chances to perform—both on campus and out in the community.

Chamber groups are formed by audition and are open to non-majors with the right skills. Want more details? Contact the Music Program Director at jgraves@ewu.edu.