Chamber Ensembles

The University at Buffalo Department of Music offers a diverse range of chamber ensembles designed to enhance musicianship, foster collaboration, and explore unique repertoire. These ensembles provide opportunities for students of all skill levels and backgrounds to engage in dynamic, small-group settings.

Explore our Chamber Ensembles

  • UB Contemporary Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The University at Buffalo's Contemporary Ensemble is dedicated to the preparation and performance of contemporary music. This ensemble not only expands the performance skills of its members but also serves as a valuable resource for the History, Composition and Theory Departments.
  • UB Percussion Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The UB Percussion Ensemble is devoted to the study and performance of new works for solo and multiple percussionists. Founded by Jan Williams and John Bergamo in 1964, and directed by Tom Kolor since 2008, the ensemble offers percussion students the opportunity to collaborate with composers, prepare innovative works, and deliver professional-level performances.
  • UB Jazz Ensembles
    4/24/25
    Directed by Professor George Caldwell, the UB Jazz Ensemble program provides an engaging platform for students passionate about jazz performance and improvisation. The program includes two sub-ensembles tailored to different musical interests and skill levels.
  • UB Chamber Music Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The UB Chamber Music Program is designed for Music Performance majors and minors, offering a focused and enriching experience in smaller instrumental ensembles. This program provides a unique platform for students to develop vital chamber music skills while exploring diverse repertoire.
  • UB Open! String Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The Open! String Ensemble is open to players of all string instruments, combining bowed and plucked instruments while providing a welcoming atmosphere for strings from around the world.
  • UB Guitar Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The UB Guitar Ensemble consists of small groups (duos, trios and quartets) in addition to a large collective ensemble.
  • UB Opera Studio
    4/24/25
    Opera Studio provides an opportunity to sing in a fully-staged opera as well as concert performances with orchestra. Opera Studio also includes classes in acting, musical coaching and scene work in their original languages.
  • UB Sax Ensemble
    4/24/25
    The UB Sax Ensemble provides the opportunity to explore the wide variety of chamber music literature available for the saxophone. Performances typically include selections from Baroque to Jazz.
  • UB Choro Ensemble
    4/24/25
    Choro is a dynamic, living instrumental music tradition that began in late 1800s Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with Afro-Brazilian reinterpretations of European salon music. What began as a regional style has since become a global genre (played in almost every major city around the world) with its own composers that has continued to evolve with each new generation into the 21st century. A few of the most prominent composer-performers include Ernesto Nazaré (piano), Pixinguinha (flute/sax), Jacob do Bandolim (bandolim) and Waldir Azevedo (cavaquinho).

For information about the UB Symphony Orchestra, UB Chorus UB Choir and UB Concert Band, please visit Large Ensembles.