UB Open! String Ensemble

The Open! String Ensemble is a unique group which invites a highly diverse group of string players to combine their efforts to achieve musical results guided not by tradition, but by the interests and abilities of its members. As its name suggests, it is a group with a collaborative orientation, open to players of all string instruments, acoustic and electric. Not only do we combine bowed and plucked instruments which seldom play with one another in traditional chamber music contexts, but we also provide a welcoming atmosphere for strings from around the world (Santur and shamisen are two of the instruments our members have brought to the group in recent years).

We create arrangements of the group's repertoire collectively, and our arrangements often allow for improvisatory freedom. O!ES rehearsals typically include exercises aimed at improving both listening and improvising skills. Students are also encouraged to compose and/or arrange music specifically for the O!ES, and we have premiered works by group members ranging from first-time composers to PhD students in musical composition.

Representative repertoire includes compositions by post-rock groups such as Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Explosions in the Sky, Mogwai, and Sigur Rós; alternative and indie rock band such as Sonic Youth, Yo La Tengo, Beck, St. Vincent, and Khruangbin; and Terry Riley's minimalist classic In C. The Open! String Ensemble regularly performs original works and arrangements by group members.

UB Open! String Ensemble performs at least once per semester on the Chamber Music class recital. We actively seek additional performance opportunities, both on and off campus.

UB Open! String Ensemble is open to players of all string instruments and of all skill levels and backgrounds. A formal audition is not required, but all new members will meet with Prof. Golove in the first week of classes to discuss musical interests and goals. During that meeting, you may choose to play a prepared selection on your instrument. Doing so is optional but may offer a helpful and efficient way to demonstrate both your skill level and personal approach/style. To set up your meeting, please contact Prof. Golove directly by email (golove@buffalo.edu).

• Undergraduate: MUS 340 GOL | 2 credits
• Graduate: MUS 540 GOL | 2 credits

The Open! String Ensemble rehearses one per week for 90 minutes. The day/time is “To Be Determined” (TBD) based on the combined class schedules of all group members. Therefore, all prospective Open! String Ensemble members must email Prof. Golove their schedules as early as possible, so that an appropriate rehearsal time and place can be identified.