Lawrence’s award-winning ensembles offer life-changing musical experiences for all students.
Immerse yourself in inspiring music from every time and place by performing with Lawrence's large and small ensembles. Abundant opportunities for musical inspiration and connection--in orchestra, band, choir, jazz ensemble, chamber groups, and world music--await you.

Lawrence's award-winning ensembles deliver more than 40 performances throughout the academic year. Most events are offered admission-free and many are delivered by webcast. Browse our schedules of live and webcast-delivered performances.

Woodwind and brass musicians in concert black play on the Chapel stage

Bands


Two large bands: Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band 

Both bands offer high-caliber performance opportunities. These ensembles perform multiple times a year and explore repertoire from the 18th century to the present day.

Choir singing

Choirs


Four large choirs: Cantala, Concert Choir, Viking Bass Clef, and Viking Chorale

There’s a place for you in the choir at Lawrence. Experience exceptional performances and world-class training.

Symphony Orchestra performs in Memorial Chapel

Orchestras


Two orchestras: Lawence Symphony Orchestra (LSO) and Lawrence Chamber Orchestra (LCO)

Experience one of the country’s premiere undergraduate orchestras with LSO and develop chamber skills and leadership with LCO.

Bass player and piano player in black Jazz Weekend t-shirts perform on the chapel stage

Jazz


Three large jazz ensembles: Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble (LUJE), Jazz Band, and Jazz Workshop.

It’s no surprise one of the nation’s best jazz programs offers some of the nation’s best jazz ensembles, which are consistently recognized with Downbeat awards.

Students performing on stage in Stansbury Theatre

Opera Theatre


Many varied and diverse productions including Main Stage Opera, Fall Scenes, and Spring Scenes.

Opportunities abound, including musical theatre, modern/premiere compositions, and guidance with personalized recital experiences.

 

Balinese Gamelan, Dance Collective, Improvisation Group (IGLU), Mariachi Ensemble (LUMÉ), New Music Ensemble, Opera Theatre, Percussion Ensemble (LUPÉ) including Sambistas, Kinkaviwo, and Tambo Toke. 

Explore a wide array of genres and traditions.

Want to experience Lawrence’s musical campus without being a Conservatory major? You can. All Lawrence ensembles are open to non-music majors by audition. There are also opportunities to take music classes or private lessons. 

Tashi Litch playing mandoline onstage

Create Your Own Ensembles

The large ensembles at Lawrence are just the beginning. You can create your own small ensembles with your fellow performers. Students regularly rehearse and gig on and off campus with their own ensembles such as chamber groups, bluegrass bands, jazz trios, and more.

A musical life awaits. Take the next steps by applying and auditioning.

The best way to find out if Lawrence is the university for you is by visiting.

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On Any Given Day...

...discover an array of opportunities that await you at Lawrence University.