Student Performance Opportunities
Choose from among diverse and exciting music opportunities to enjoy while attending Pitt State, regardless of major, including strings, vocal, symphony, wind, jazz, chamber, and marching and pep bands!
Music Opportunities
Wind and Percussion
Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band
Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble is the premier wind band at Pittsburg State University. This group is open by audition to the finest wind and percussion players in the department of music. The focus of the Wind Ensemble is:
- To foster a high level of individual and ensemble musicianship by:
- Maintaining the highest standards of technical and artisitc performance
- Applying skills and musical knowledge from other coures
- Encouraging creative thinking about music
- To promore a solid foundation in wind band repertorie though programming, studying, and performing cornerstone compositions
- To participate in a living musical culture by:
- Promoting and performing new compositions
- Collaborating with composers, conductors, and performers
- Actively connecting with a wide audience through a variety of media
The Wind Ensemble rehearses from 3:15-4:45 on T/TH in the Fall and M/W/F in the Spring. The ensemble is under the direction of Dr. Andrew D. Chybowski.
Check us out on Facebook!
View the 2024 Band Brochure for program and faculty information!
Symphonic Band
The Symphonic Band is offered in the Spring Semester and enrollment is open without audition for membership. Auditions may be held within the sections for chair placement.
The Symphonic Band serves an important role for the university in that it provides the general student body with the opportunity to continue their participation in a musical ensemble regardless of their major. Secondly, it provides the less experienced music majors the opportunity to build their musicianship and leadership skills.
Concerts feature a variety of music from marches and Broadway medleys to some of the finest serious music composed for this medium. This ensemble will typically give two concerts during the semester. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30-4:45.
The Pride of the Plains Marching Band
The Pride of the Plains Marching Band
The "Pride of the Plains" Marching Band at Pitt State is a hightly spirited 150+ person band.
We consist of traditional marching band instrumentation, color guard, feature twirlers, and the Crimson and Gold Dancers. The marching band at Pitt State is a tremendous source of pride for the university and throughout the region.
Perform at all home football games and select away games. Lead the homecoming and Pittsburg Christmas Parades, and participate in other school and community events. A highlight of recent years has been performing in the Kansas City Chief's Arrowhead Stadium and cheering on the Gorillas at the NCAA Division 2 National Championships.
2024 Marching Band Camp Information Letter
Band Camp
After a five day band camp which occurs the week before school starts, full band rehearsals are held from 3:15 PM to 4:45 PM on Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall semester. Enrollment in the band is open to all Pitt State students regardless of academic major.
All members of the “Pride of the Plains” receive participation awards starting from $400 for their performance. Significant additional scholarship monies may be available to qualified applicants by audition.
Fill out this Google Forms if you are inrested in participating in the Pride of the Plains Marching Band!
Colorguard
Who: All Current and Future Pitt State Students are encouraged to try-out for the PSU Color Guard. If you were a member of your high school guard and have a positive attitude, chances are strong that you will be accepted.
What: Color Guard at PSU is a select group that performs as part of the Pride of the Plains Marching Band. Equipment used includes flags, rifles, and other props and equipment on occasion.
When: Monday, August 14 at noon. If you want an earlier audition, please contact the Music Office (620-235-4466) for an appointment.
Where: McCray Recital Hall on the campus of PSU.
Why: Because color guard is fun! And you get $500!
The Pittsburg State University Pride of the Plains Marching Band Facebook group is where all band related announcements will be made. All band members and prospective members are encouraged to join.
Marching Band FAQs
How does being in a college Marching Band compare to my high school experience?
The “Pride of the Plains” Marching Band is comprised of students who have been members of championship high school bands as well as students whose high school didn't even have a Marching Band. This diversity of backgrounds makes it difficult to compare college with high school. However, one of the greatest differences is that there is much less rehearsal time available. We perform a standard pregame show and 2 different halftime shows each season, and play lots of stand tunes. Also, the college band has to find a happy medium between being a fun and spirited organization while still achieving a quality of performance representative of the image of our great University at home and away. At PSU, we put a significant emphasis on the band being fun for the marching members as well as for the audience.
How much does it cost?
Actually, we pay you. See below for stipend and scholarship information.
Do I have to audition to be in the band?
Brass and Woodwind players are not required to audition for the Marching Band. However, percussionists, twirlers, and color guard members will have to try out during band camp (or by appointment with the band director).
Do I need to be a music major to be in the band?
NO! The Marching Band does not require its members to be music majors. In fact, the majority of marching band members major in something other than music. The environment is ideal for freshmen as it provides them with a wealth of human resources to help them select professors and pick the best classes. Just about every major at the university is represented in the band!
Do you have to know how to march to be in the band?
NO! Marching experience is not required of anyone interested in becoming a member of the band. In fact, about 1/3rd of the Marching Band members had no marching experience before joining the "Pride of the Plains" Upon arrival at Band Camp, all members will learn to march. Don’t worry! Its not difficult at all.
How often does the band rehearse?
Rehearsals are planned so as not to interfere with classes. Rehearsals are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3:30-5:00 PM. That’s it*. No extra rehearsals, no staying late. Fall semester only.
(*color guard and percussion do have one sectional each week… that’s why you guys get the big bucks.)
Does the bands program provide instruments to members?
YES! The band will provide sousaphones, baritones, mellophones, and piccolos. Some saxes, trombones, and trumpets are also available on a limited basis. The band provides all percussion and color guard equipment.
Stipends and Scholarships
Members of the "Pride of the Plains" Marching Band receive Band Stipend Awards for their participation. All band members will get at least $400. Drumline and Colorguard receive $500.
Basketball band: students receive compensation of $25 per game they perform (there are usually two per game day) and there are typically 12 or more game days per season. Qualified students may apply for and audition for additional scholarship assistance through the Department of Music.
Out of State Student = In State Tuition
Residents of 32 states receive in-state tuition waivers as well as Flat-Rate tuition.
For information about Bands at Pitt State
contact the department of music at music@pittstate.edu or call (620) 235-4466
Jazz
Jazz at Pittsburg State University
Whether your dream is to become a professional jazz musician or jazz band director, or you are passionate about jazz outside of your chosen major, we have a place for you!
The Music Department at Pittsburg State University offers a complete program of courses including improvisation, composition, arranging, jazz history, pedagogy, jazz music appreciation, combos, and big band ensembles.
These courses are designed to give the serious student a well-rounded background in all aspects of jazz and commercial music.
Guest artists/clinicians play an important part in helping our students hear and work with talented, nationally known artists. Our annual jazz festival, founded in 1975, brings in some of best jazz musicians and bands in the world like the Count Basie Orchestra, Steve Turre, The Tom Kubis Band, the D.C. military bands, The Vanguard Orchestra and more.
Jazz Ensemble
As a member of the PSU Jazz Ensemble, you'll learn and play the literature of the professional big bands of today and the standards of the past, and you'll perform innovative music in numerous jazz, studio, and jazz-rock styles. Membership is open to all students regardless of major.
Auditions will take place during the first week of classes in the Fall semester in the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts rehearsal room.
Rehearsals will begin the second week of school.
Required audition materials will be posted here soon, and will also be available outside of Dr. Hastings office, McCray 204.
Jazz Combo
As a member of the PSU Jazz Combo, you'll have the opportunity to play jazz in a small group format. Members learn to develop and cultivate improvisational skills while being coached by faculty.
Jazz Improvisation
Develop improvisational abilities in various jazz styles. Learn the theoretical basis of chords, playing patterns, transcribing solos, and working with standards. You'll need a minimum knowledge of music theory to be successful in this course.
Jazz History and Music Appreciation
Learn the development of jazz from its earliest days to the present. Emphasis is placed on the musical characteristics of each style period and listening to recorded performances of pivotal figures and jazz legends.
Jazz Pedagogy
Prepare for public school teaching by covering literature, styles, basic improvisation, and rehearsal procedures.
The Annual PSU Jazz Festival
Held on the first Friday in March, the innovative PSU Jazz Festival began in 1974 and has continued to grow in size and scope, now attracting more than 70 high school bands from across the region.
This festival features a guest ensemble or soloist/clinician. Some of the past soloists/groups have included: the Count Basie Orchestra, Steve Turre Quartet, Roy Hargrove Quintet and Louie Bellson.
Director of Jazz at PSU - Dr. Todd Hastings page
Jazz Mission Statement
- Instruct and inspire those whose professional goals include the creation, performance, critical assessment, and teaching of music, and to offer courses to the general student body that will enhance the understanding and appreciation of jazz music;
- Provide leadership within the University and the region in America's musical art form, Jazz;
- Maintain and enhance an outreach and program of service and assistance to area public schools via jazz education;
- Bring nationally known jazz artists to PSU and the region though sponsorship of jazz concerts and clinics;
- Contribute to the enhancement of the cultural life of the university and the region through the performance and sponsorship of frequent jazz concerts and events.
Woodwinds
Woodwinds
Woodwinds find themselves equally at home in concert band, orchestra, chamber music, solo performance, and jazz, and at Pitt State, you'll have all of those opportunities!.
Performance Opportunities
Perform in a variety of ensembles: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, SEK Symphony Orchestra, Marching Band, Pep Band, and Jazz Ensembles. Perform solo and chamber music repertoire in the weekly Student Recital Hour, Studio Class, and other individually scheduled recitals.
Chamber music ensembles such as woodwind choirs, quintets, quartets and trios will help you expand your musical experience and may be taken for credit. Two annual competitions held at Pittsburg State are the Concerto and Aria Competition and the Waddill Chamber Music Competition.
Student winners of the Concerto and Aria Competition perform as soloists with the Southeast Kansas Symphony, while winners of the Waddill Chamber Music Competition perform in the convocation ceremony held in May.
Studio and Reed Classes
Take classes from Woodwind faculty in reed making and reed adjustment for single and double reed students. Explore and discuss performance practice, literature, repertoire, and other important topics such as performance anxiety and healthy practice habits to help avoid repetitive stress injuries. In informal performances that are part of the studio class, you'll receive immediate feedback and constructive comments about performances from peers and guest clinicians.
Private Study
Applied lessons are “one-on-one” and custom tailored to suit individual student needs and abilities. Instruction includes the basic fundamentals of performing and interpreting musical styles and notations. In weekly private lessons, you'll learn the necessary skills and competencies to meet today’s professional demands in the careers of teaching and performing. While a part of the degree requirement for Music majors and minors, lessons may be available to non-majors with special permission of the instructor.
PSU Woodwind Graduates
Graduates of Pittsburg State University's Woodwind program are employed across the country as successful public school teachers, college professors, freelance musicians, and symphony orchestra musicians.
Scholarships
In addition to receiving stipends for Marching Band and Pep Band, qualified students may apply and audition for Music Department Scholarships. The University administers a major Financial Aid program that includes other scholarships, grants, and loans.
Woodwind Faculty:
Brass and Percussion
Brass and Percussion
Prepare for diverse careers in all types of musical endeavors, whether they be related to music performance or music education, in diverse styles ranging from classical music to jazz and commercial styles. From swing to salsa, Bach to Stravinsky, and band to chamber music, musicians must have a well-rounded background in order to successfully compete.
At Pitt State, brass and percussion students can study trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium (baritone horn), tuba, or percussion with a trained specialist.
Private Study
One-on-one analysis of playing ability is vital to the development of the overall musicianship needed as a performer and/or teacher. Applied lessons are custom tailored to each student's needs and abilities. Instruction includes the basic fundamentals of performing and interpreting musical styles. You'll also interact with other members of our teaching/performing faculty outside of your own performance area.
Performance Opportunities
Choose from a wide variety of music opportunities, including Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, SEK Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo, Marching Band, and various chamber music ensembles such as the trumpet ensemble, tuba ensemble, mixed brass ensembles, and percussion ensemble.
These groups have performed at various professional events such as the Kansas Music Educators In-Service Workshop, the Midwest Trombone and Trumpet workshops, the International Trumpet Guild Festival, and regional tuba festivals. All of these groups are open to Music majors and non-majors alike.
Scholarships
In addition to receiving stipends for Marching Band and Pep Band, qualified students may apply and audition for Music Department Scholarships. The University administers a major Financial Aid program that includes other scholarships, grants, and loans.
Faculty Contacts:
Jim Clanton, Percussion
Jobey Wilson, Tuba
Studios at PSU
Studios at PSU
Horn Studio
Horn students at Pitt State enjoy a collaborative and supportive environment where everyone strives for high levels of success together. Pitt State offers performance opportunities in a variety of areas of interest to the developing horn player – wind ensemble, orchestra, marching band, and chamber ensembles.
Students are encouraged to engage with their local, regional, and international communities through outreach performances as well as professional workshop performances and competitions. Private lessons focus on fundamental techniques, etude study, large ensemble excerpt and audition training, and solo repertoire.
By studying at Pitt State, you develop not only your playing abilities, but also your pedagogy skills – preparing you for the multi-faceted 21st century musical profession. Come be a Gorilla, where we make life better through education!
For more information about Pittsburg State or to schedule a sample lesson, email and go to Dr. Marie Smith's page or email music@pittstate.edu or call (620) 235-4466
Percussion Studio
If you’re looking to become a music educator, percussion performer, percussion enthusiast, or just think you would really enjoy the thrill of participating in a college marching band, PSU is the place for you!
Percussionists wishing to set up an audition time should email and go to Dr. James Clanton's page or email music@pittstate.edu or call (620) 235-4466. For audition requirements and information go to Scholarship Audition Guidelines.
Other times are also available by appointment.
Percussion Opportunities
Performance opportunities for percussionists at PSU are numerous and include: Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Percussion Ensemble, The Pride of the Plains Marching Band, S.E.K Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Band, Jazz Lab Band, and Jazz Combo.
Also active in the campus community is the percussion student organization “Apex.” This organization provides both on and off campus performance opportunities for its active members, as well as a forum for all percussionists and percussion minded students at PSU to get together and discuss everything percussion!
Percussionists at PSU are provided with a systematic, extensive study of percussion instruments during their weekly lessons with the percussion faculty.
During these lessons, percussionists are provided with detailed instruction of all major Western percussion instruments including snare drum, timpani, two and four mallet marimba, vibraphone and drum set. Percussion lessons also include a solid foundation in various genres of world music from the drums of Africa and the Middle East to the marimbas of Southern Mexico.
The Percussion Studio also has an organized weekly studio class that provides students with supplemental instruction on everything from tambourine and djembe to orchestral excerpts and performance practice. These studio classes also provide an opportunity for percussionists to get together to share ideas and to perform for one another.
Trombone Studio
Welcome to the Pittsburg State University Trombone Studio. The studio members are active as performers, students and teaching of young trombonists in the region. Activities include not only the regular university ensembles, but also the trombone choir, trombone quartets, and jazz combos. Some players are members of the Crossroads Jazz Orchestra, an area professional jazz ensemble.
Past students have participated in the Kansas Intercollegiate Band, The Kansas Intercollegiate Jazz Ensemble, the National Intercollegiate Band, and trombone choirs at the International Trombone festivals.
Our graduates are teaching at various public schools throughout the region, and have been members of our armed service bands and other professional groups. LCDR Patrick Sweeten is the past Director of the U.S. Navy Academy Band in Annapolis and a former Gorilla Bone.
About Lt. Commander Patrick Sweeten
Advice from Lt. Commander Patrick Sweeten
Soloists and Master Classes
PSU has hosted a variety of master classes affording our students valuable opportunity to work with world renowned performers and pedagogues including Mr. Joe Alessi, Principal Trombone with the New York Philharmonic, Trombones de Costa Rica, Danish trombonist and recording artist Carsten Svanberg and many more.
International Trombone Association Website
Trumpet Studio
Meet Pittsburg State Univeristy Trumpet Studio Students and their performances!
Under the direction of Dr. Todd J. Hastings, the Midwest Trumpet Festival's mission is to gather leading performers, educators, students, and community for an intensive time of large and small continuing education sessions, master classes, recitals, and concerts.
Learn more about the Midwest Trumpet Festival.
Tuba Studio
The tuba-euphonium studio at the Pitt State has a really strong collective work ethic and an unusually strong sense of community. Current students hail from Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Hawaii. Because of our Gorilla Advantage program, students from all across the country qualify for out low in-state tuition.
The atmosphere in the studio is one of friendly competitiveness- everyone wants to do well, but nobody wants to do well at someone else’s expense. All members of the studio participate in a weekly studio class.
What we do in this time together ranges from playing tuba/ euphonium ensemble music, individual masterclasses, topics presented on pedagogical matters, and sometimes just chit-chat. We regularly have social get-togethers... known affectionately as Tuba-ques.
The tuba-euphonium studio regularly travels to attend conferences of the International Tuba and Euphonium Association and compete in solo and chamber music competitions. Additionally, we host many events on campus such as our annual Octubafests and Holly Jolly Tuba Concerts.
Vocal, Choral, and Keyboard
Vocal/Choral/Opera
Vocal & Choral Studies
Choral Opportunities
Pittsburg State has a long and proud tradition of excellence in the area of vocal music. The PSU Choirs have been featured on a number of occasions at the state conventions of the Kansas Music Educators Association, and they also maintain an active schedule of on-campus performances and annual touring throughout the region.
The central ensemble for these activities is the 120-member University Choir, which is open to all PSU students. Smaller ensemble experiences are also available via the PSU Chorale, and through activities such as Lab Choir, and other ad hoc ensembles.
Scholarship Assistance
Scholarship assistance is offered to PSU students at all levels of involvement, from music majors to music minors and non-major participants. Music Department Scholarships are awarded to applicants based upon an interview and audition, normally held during the year preceding entry to the university.
View the Vocal and Choral Brochure for program and faculty information.
PSU Opera Theatre
The PSU Opera Theatre program produces two productions annually, with at least one that is fully staged with orchestral accompaniment. Repertoire for the productions is chosen from the opera, operetta and musical theatre cannons, and ranges from traditional operas by Mozart to cabaret style evenings devoted to the works of American musical theatre composers.
A primary function of the Opera Theatre program is to provide students with an outlet to develop their talents and skills in all aspects of lyric theatre including: stage deportment, basic dance, use of vocal technique on stage, and role preparation.
The majority of roles in the Opera Theatre productions are filled by PSU students who are enrolled in Opera Workshop, however, students often get the opportunity to work alongside PSU faculty members as well as professional singers who are engaged to fill specific roles.
Auditions are held annually and are open to all PSU students.
For more information, email Patrick Howle or call 620-235-4470.
Keyboard
Keyboard
Are you a Pianist or an Organist? Do you play the harpsichord? Are you interested in continuing your studies? At Pittsburg State you will have many opportunities to perform and learn about piano, organ, or harpsichord. With undergraduate degrees in music performance and music education, and a master's degree in music performance, we offer programs that will help you explore the possibilities of a career in music.
Areas of Study
- Performance: Emphasis in Piano, Organ, Harpsichord
- Chamber Music: Instrumental and Vocal
- Accompanying, Continuo Realization
- Piano Pedagogy: The Techniques of Teaching
- Literature: Piano, Organ, Harpsichord, Chamber Music, Ensemble
Facilities
- The outstanding ambience of the Sharon Kay Dean Recital Hall and the magnificent, newly rebuilt Steinway concert grand piano offer an ideal performance environment.
- The Sharon Kay Dean Hall Recital Hall within McCray Hall houses a remarkable 3-manual, mechanical action Fisk Organ, constructed in 1995.
- Roland Piano Lab: consisting of 16 pianos
- More than 25 practice rooms with upright and grand pianos
- Harpsichords by Martin, Dowd, and Tomlinson
- Music Listening Lab
- Bicknell Family Center for the Arts is the region's premiere destination for the fine and performing arts. The $33 million facility features an 1,100-seat performance hall, a 250-seat theater, a new rehearsal room, an art gallery, and state-of-the-art technology throughout the venue.
Meet our Keyboard Faculty
Dr. Susan Marchant: Department Chair, Choral, Organ, Harpsichord
Dr. Reena Natenberg: Piano
Fisk Organ Op. 106
The C. B. Fisk Opus 106 Organ
The Pittsburg State University Department of Music is proud to announce the debut of a CD performed on our Fisk Opus 106 organ and recorded by our faculty organist, Dr. Susan Marchant.
Susan Marchant plays the C. B. Fisk Opus 106 organ at Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas.
- Pro Organo item #CD 7033
- Total playing time: 70:09 [DDD]
- Program: Ciacona in E minor, BuxWV 160 - Buxtehude · Suite du Second Ton - Guilain · Sonata in A major, Op. 65, No. 3 - Mendelssohn · Ricercar - Sweelinck · An Wasserflüssen Babylon, BWV 653 and Kyrie, Gott heiliger Geist, BWV 671 - J. S. Bach · Communion fromTriptyque, Op. 58 - Louis Vierne · Choral in E major - César Franck
To purchase a copy of this recording, email Dr. Marchant.
Strings and Orchestra
Strings
Strings
A wealth of opportunities in performance, teaching, and personal development as a string player at await at Pittsburg State University. Our renowned faculty provides specialized training to violin, viola, cello, bass, and guitar, setting you up for success in the musical landscape.
- Learn from globally recognized specialists in one-on-one sessions and ensemble coaching.
- Our tailored applied lessons equip you with the essential skills needed in both performing and teaching.
- From solo recitals to orchestral and chamber music, experience a many kinds of performance opportunities.
- Qualifying students can teach budding musicians in our community.
- Pittsburg State University's Department of Music has a long and rich tradition and today, many of our former string students occupy important positions as performers and educators throughout the country.
Private Study
Our individual applied lessons focus on your unique needs and abilities. Master the fundamentals of performance and interpretation in multiple musical styles.
Southeast Kansas Symphony
Perform in a dynamic orchestra setting and work closely with seasoned professionals. Bonus: collaborate with international soloists and benefit from exclusive workshops. Go to the SEK Homepage!
Chamber Music Ensembles
Deepen your artistry through an intense study of chamber music literature, guided by our esteemed String Faculty.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Music Department Scholarships: Open for auditions to all qualified applicants. We offer scholarships that meet or exceed the offerings of other Kansas universities.
- Waddill String Scholarship: Exclusive opportunity for dedicated musicians.
- Gorilla Advantage: Out-of-state students can enjoy in-state tuition rates.
- Financial Aid packages, including grants and loans, are also available.
Contact our faculty to audition for a scholarship or to learn more about how Pittsburg State University can propel your music career forward. Contact the department of music at music@pittstate.edu or call 620-235-4466
Southeast Kansas Symphony Orchestra
Southeast Kansas Symphony
Visit our SEK Symphony Page for more information about the Symphony.