UB Symphony Orchestra

A closeup of a student playing the cello.

Symphony Orchestra rehearsing for a production of the "Impresario." Photograph: Douglas Levere

The UB Symphony Orchestra, led by the esteemed conductor Jaman E. Dunn-Danger, stands as the premier orchestral ensemble within the Department of Music. Our ensemble is a vibrant community, drawing talent from all corners of UB’s diverse student body, faculty, and the wider community.

Join the Symphony

Our doors are open to all UB students, faculty, and community members, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate with UB’s distinguished music faculty. We welcome musicians from all academic disciplines to take lessons and hone their craft alongside our dedicated music majors.

Learn more about:

Rehearsals and Performances

The orchestra rehearses twice weekly, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30–8:30 p.m. in B1 Slee Hall.

Each semester, our hard work culminates in one to two electrifying performances, showcasing a broad spectrum of the orchestral repertoire. Occasionally, we also join forces with other large and small ensembles within the Department of Music for special collaborative performances.

Auditions

Auditions for the UB Symphony Orchestra take place during the first week of each semester. These auditions help us gauge the ensemble’s overall skill level and determine seating placements. 

We invite you to audition to showcase your talents by:
  • Playing scales in any key.
  • Demonstrating your sight-reading abilities.
  • Preparing a solo piece excerpt of your choosing, that's at most 5 minutes long.

Note: It is strongly recommended you do not pick something overly easy or difficult.

Sign up for an Audition

Note: You can register for the required classes before your audition.

Important Dates
  • Audition Results: Posted on Saturday, Aug. 31, outside of B1 Slee Hall and 304 Baird Hall. 
  • First Rehearsal: Tuesday, Sept. 3, at 6:30 p.m. in B1 Slee Hall. 

Required Class Registration

UB students wishing to join the orchestra must register for one of the following classes for the Fall semester:

  • Undergraduate Non-Music Major: MUS 138 | 2 credits
  • Undergraduate: MUS 338 | 2 credits
  • Graduate: MUS 538 | 2 credits

Registration can be completed prior to your audition.

Contact

For further information regarding the UB Symphony Orchestra, please contact:

Jaman Dunn-Danger

Assistant Professor of Practice; Orchestra and Voice

Department of Music

304 Baird Hall

Email: jamandun@buffalo.edu