Beyond the Classroom

The UB Department of Music encourages undergraduate students to seek valuable hands-on experience, including:

• UB Symphony Orchestra
• UB Concert Band
• UB Chorus
• UB Choir
• UB Jazz Ensemble Combo
• UB Big Band Jazz
• "Break on Through" Performance Class

Undergraduate music students may take applied music lessons* with expert faculty musicians in piano, trombone, tuba percussion, piano, harp, organ, harpsichord, guitar, voice, violin, viola, cello, double bass, saxophone, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn or trumpet. 

*Please note that students are required to audition before they begin lessons. 

The mission of Buffalo String Works is to provide high-quality music instruction on stringed and percussion instruments to children of low-income, refugee and immigrant parents. The program has been designed to offer a creative outlet for children and families searching for a sense of belonging in their new home. 

Undergraduate music students may intern with Buffalo String Works for one or more semesters, earning two credits per semester. Most students find this experience both enjoyable and rewarding, and many continue to volunteer even after graduation. If you are interested in honing your teaching skills, boosting your resume and/or giving back to the community, Buffalo String Works is an excellent opportunity to do all three. 

Advanced undergraduate theory students may earn internship credit (two credits per semester) by tutoring other undergraduate music students. This is an excellent opportunity to develop teaching, critical thinking and leadership skills, as well as build theory knowledge in a practical setting. 

Buffalo is well-known for its thriving music scene. There are a wealth of opportunities throughout the community for undergraduate students to gain hands-on knowledge and experience of various aspects of the music industry, from performing to behind-the-scenes technical work to the business of music. 

Interested students should discuss these opportunities with a faculty advisor and/or Nicole Rosen.