Music Ensembles
SUNY ULSTER MUSIC DEPARTMENT
All events are in the Quimby Theater, Vanderlyn Hall, on the Stone Ridge campus unless
otherwise noted.
African Music ensemble
Experience the infectious rhythm and energy of African music. Immerse yourself in an array of traditions found throughout the African continent including a vast palette of drumming styles, xylophones, songs, and dances as they were passed down by master musicians and cultural torchbearers of each unique genre to Paul Chambers, the SUNY Ulster African Music Ensemble’s director. Learn the cultural significance that fills this music with life and connects all those who experience it through the power of music. SUNY Ulster college students, faculty and staff members are joined by community members for two to three concerts a semester. Paul Chambers, director (chamberp@sunyulster.edu) MUS 116
College Chorus
Discover the joy of choral music singing as the SUNY Ulster College Chorus explores a rich tapestry of choral music repertoire spanning diverse genres and cultures. From a cappella singing to collaborative instrumental projects and everything in between, musicians from different backgrounds and experiences join together as one to explore the limitless possibilities that is the world of choral music. Primarily composed of SUNY Ulster students, and occasionally joined by faculty, staff, and community members, this group embodies the true essence of collaborative community singing. Be inspired by the passion and skill of these dedicated choral musicians and experience profound connections through vibrant music making. Performances include two to three evening concerts per semester and periodic pop-up performances and events. Janet Gehres, director (gehresj@sunyulster.edu), & Edward Leavitt, accompanist MUS 107
College/Community Band
Continuing the great American band tradition, the Ulster College/Community Band presents
diverse repertoire, showcasing the ensemble’s versatility. Whether performing a classic
symphonic piece, a lively jazz number, or a contemporary band arrangement, the musicians’
skill and enthusiasm are evident. It is a time for college students to connect with
local student musicians, music educators, and community members from throughout the
Hudson Valley to create music in a collaborative, musical community, each bringing
their unique energy and passion to the performance. Their performances are not just
a display of technical skill, but a celebration of community and shared love for music.
The experience is both uplifting and entertaining, leaving the audience with a deep
appreciation for the art of live performance and the unique charm of community and
college ensembles. Victor Izzo (izzoi@sunyulster.edu) & Carla Newsome (newsomec@sunyulster.edu),
co-directors MUS 118
Mixed Instrument Ensemble
Encounter captivating performances by SUNY Ulster's Mixed Instrument Ensemble, a group
offering unique versions of pieces and songs spanning many music genres. Each lineup
of instruments in the Ensemble is unique to that semester, as are the arrangements
for the group by director/guitarist Greg Dinger. From the plaintive tones of saxophone
to the exotic plucking of a harp or the silky tone of guitar, from the percussive
attack of the piano to the dominating voice of the flute, the sound of this group
is tailored to the instruments and music they play. The musical arrangements range
from famous classical pieces to a diverse array of popular songs you'll recognize
and enjoy. SUNY Ulster college students, faculty and staff members are joined by community members
for two to three concerts a semester. Greg Dinger, director/arranger (dingerg@sunyulster.edu) MUS 116
Guitar Ensemble
There are brass, woodwind, string, and percussion ensembles - how about a Guitar Ensemble? SUNY Ulster includes a Guitar Ensemble in its roster of music performance groups. The music the players perform is arranged by director/guitarist Greg Dinger, and spans many styles: classical, jazz, blues, rock, and folk/ethnic. Likewise, the players play a range of guitars - steel-string and nylon-string acoustic, electric, and even electric bass guitar - depending on the needs of song. SUNY Ulster's Guitar ensembles have played well-known songs like "Billie Jean, "All You Need Is Love," "Everybody Wants To Rule the World," "Down On The Corner" and classical pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Bartok & Ligeti, Spanish classical pieces by Rodrigo & de Falla, "standards" like "Someone To Watch Over Me" and folk/ethnic-flavored songs like "Shenandoah." Experience a musical entity like you've probably never before encountered with SUNY Ulster's Guitar Ensemble. SUNY Ulster college students, faculty and staff members are joined by community members for two to three concerts a semester. Greg Dinger, director/arranger (dingerg@sunyulster.edu) MUS 116
