The MSU Percussion Ensemble at the College of Music offers students the opportunity to explore a wide range of performances, from innovative new works to classic chamber percussion pieces. Dedicated to cultivating artistry and technical excellence, the ensemble allows students to engage deeply with diverse percussion repertoire and showcase their versatility.

Students perform at high-profile events and collaborate with distinguished guest artists, gaining firsthand experience in professional artistry and performance practice. These enriching experiences inspire students to elevate their own artistry, develop a nuanced understanding of percussion music, and build lasting professional relationships, preparing them for successful careers in music.

The African Diaspora Percussion Ensemble at the MSU College of Music, led by Percussion Instructor Kevin Jones, delivers performances of exceptional quality that captivate audiences with their vibrant energy and authentic representation of traditional Congolese drumming. Utilizing instruments unique to the African Diaspora, the ensemble presents a diverse array of rhythms and sounds, creating an engaging and profound musical experience. Concert programs highlight the technical skill and artistry of ensemble members and provide a deep cultural connection and understanding of the African Diaspora’s musical heritage.

The Trombone Choir at the MSU College of Music presents impressive quality and artistry in with two concerts every season. Comprised of skilled student musicians, the ensemble performs a diverse repertoire that includes a variety of original and transcribed works, showcasing the versatility of the trombone. Concerts feature rich harmonies with precise, cohesive playing, reflecting acquired technical skill and musicality. The ensemble’s commitment to excellence offers engaging and memorable musical experience for audiences.

Based at Michigan State University, the International Chamber Soloists (ICS) is a distinguished group of young string players from around the world. Founded in 2004 by violinist Dmitri Berlinsky, ICS has earned high praise, with the Toronto Globe & Mail noting their “muscular, agile, flexible” performances. Berlinsky created ICS to offer advanced MSU students exposure to diverse string repertoire and close collaboration with experienced professionals, including MSU faculty. ICS has since evolved into a professional ensemble featuring MSU students and musicians from renowned institutions like the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, and Juilliard. ICS has performed in Michigan, New York, Florida, Maryland, Iowa, Kansas, and Texas, and at international festivals in Costa Rica and Mexico. Their notable performances include the Fontana Arts Festival in Kalamazoo and a gala concert at the San Francisco Conservatory. Watch video performance.

The Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble at the MSU College of Music delivers a distinctive blend of quality and artistry in their performances. Comprising 18 members, the ensemble presents a diverse repertoire that includes original compositions and transcriptions, showcasing the rich tonal quality and expressive potential of tuba and euphonium music. Their concerts feature precise ensemble dynamics and a balanced interplay of voices, highlighting the ensemble’s technical prowess and musical sensitivity. The ensemble’s dedication to excellence ensures each performance is engaging and expressive, offering audiences a memorable and enjoyable musical experience.

At the MSU College of Music, students have the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of chamber music performance groups. These ensembles, from string quartets to mixed chamber groups, provide a rich platform for students to refine their musical skills and collaborate closely with peers and faculty members. Emphasizing both artistic excellence and innovative repertoire, these performances showcase the depth of talent and dedication within the MSU music community. Explore performance opportunities as described within the Chamber Music Area.