UHM Music

Hi everyone, I'm considering applying to University of Hawaii at Mānoa and I'm really passionate about music. How's their music department, and are there opportunities to perform in ensembles or join music-related clubs on campus?

Hi there! The University of Hawaii at Mānoa (UHM) has a solid music department that offers a wide range of opportunities for students who are passionate about music. Studying music at UHM allows you to explore both traditional and non-traditional disciplines, with an emphasis on the music of Asia and the Pacific, as well as Western classical music and jazz.

As for performance ensembles, UHM has numerous options to choose from depending on your interests. Some of these ensembles include the UHM Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Marching Band, Chamber Music Ensembles, and various Choirs (such as Concert Choir and Chamber Singers). There are also ensembles that focus on specific cultural music traditions like the Balinese Gamelan Ensemble, Chinese Ensemble, Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Ensemble, and the Korean Drumming Ensemble, to name a few.

When it comes to music-related clubs, there are student organizations such as the UH Mānoa Band Council, which work to support the members of the music department and organize various events and performances throughout the year. It's also important to remember that UHM has a vibrant campus life, so even if a club you're looking for doesn't exist, you can always start one yourself and bring together others who share your passion for music.

In summary, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa offers a unique and diverse music program, with multiple ensembles and clubs for students interested in various musical genres. This ensures that you'll have plenty of opportunities to pursue your musical interests while still gaining a well-rounded education at UHM. Good luck with your application!