Workshops and Honor Ensembles
The OU School of Music, Theatre and Dance offers multiple workshops and honor ensemble opportunities for K-12 students and community members throughout the year. Our workshops are taught by OU's renowned faculty, and by highly regarded guest performers and teachers. These outstanding arts performance workshops combine an open and collaborative atmosphere with rigorous standards and excellent teaching.
Many of our workshops are free. For workshops with a fee, the amount charged is always carefully considered so as to be as inexpensive as possible for attendees, while still covering some of the cost of running the event.
Youth Protection: OU works to ensure safe conduct and supportive interaction between youth and program leaders. Learn more about our initiatives at the Youth Protection website.
Refunds: For workshops with a fee, refunds will be given up to two weeks prior to the event start date. Cancellations within two weeks of the event start date will not be refunded.
Exceptions: Honor Band and Honor Orchestra will issue refunds no later than one week before the first rehearsal.
For more information, please contact [email protected].
OU Woodwind Day
Sunday, Oct. 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Varner Recital Hall | 371 Varner Drive in Rochester
Kickstart the Day with a Faculty Recital:
Our distinguished Oakland University woodwind faculty will open the day with a recital that promises to inspire and set the tone for an exciting day of music-making.
Meet Our Esteemed Faculty and Staff:
• Brandon LePage, flute
• Jeffrey Zook, flute (DSO Affiliate)
• Timothy Michling, oboe
• Ralph Skiano, clarinet (DSO Affiliate)
• Erin Dowler, clarinet
• Cornelia Sommer, bassoon (DSO Affiliate)
• Stacey Jamison, bassoon
• Jeffrey Heisler, saxophone
• Alex Sellers, saxophone
• Gregory Cunningham, conductor
• Pamela Klena, conductor
These accomplished, world-class musicians bring a wealth of experience and expertise, making this event an exceptional opportunity for learning and growth.
Interactive Masterclasses:
Following the recital, students will break into instrument-specific sessions with our expert faculty. These sessions will focus on fundamentals, all-state repertoire and other essential techniques to help you advance your playing.
Engaging Presentation:
Enjoy a special 30-minute presentation by one of our faculty members, offering insights and tips that every woodwind player can benefit from.
Massive Woodwind Ensemble Reading Session:
In the afternoon, join forces with other woodwind players for a thrilling large ensemble reading session, conducted by Dr. Gregory Cunningham, Director of Bands, and Dr. Pamela Klena, Assistant Director of Bands. This is your chance to experience the power and excitement of playing in a large woodwind ensemble!
Vendor Exhibits:
We are excited to welcome representatives from Meridian Winds and Flute World. They will be on-site with a variety of merchandise, music, accessories and instruments for testing. They’ll also offer small repairs, so be sure to bring your instrument!
Registration:
The cost for this incredible day of music is just $25, which includes lunch for all registrants. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, play and connect with fellow woodwind enthusiasts. We look forward to seeing you there.
Presenting the
OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
2024 HIGH SCHOOL HONOR BAND
NOMINATIONS DUE OCTOBER 3
WHEN
November 8-9, 2024
WHERE
Varner Hall at Oakland University
371 Varner Drive in Rochester, MI
WITH CLINICIANS
Andrew David Perkins, composer/educator/conductor
Dr. Pamela Klena & Dr. Gregory Cunningham,
Oakland University
In addition to OU Wind and Percussion Faculty
The Honor Band concert will also feature the Oakland University Wind Symphony under the direction of Dr. Gregory Cunningham.
Nomination Instructions:
BAND DIRECTORS
-
-
- PRINT OUT THE ATTACHED STUDENT INTEREST FORM
- PASS OUT TO YOUR STUDENTS AND/OR HANG UP AROUND YOUR BAND ROOM
- INSTRUCT STUDENTS TO FILL OUT THE SELF INTEREST FORM ONLINE AND TURN IN THE BOTTOM TEAR-OFF FORM TO YOU BY SEPTEMBER 26
- BY OCTOBER 3 SUBMIT FORM WITH RANKED LIST OF STUDENTS WHO HAVE FILLED OUT THE STUDENT INTEREST FORM.
-
YOU AND YOUR STUDENTS WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE RESULTS BY OCTOBER 8.
SHOULD YOU BE CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN THE HONOR BAND, THERE WILL BE A $50 REGISTRATION FEE. YOU WILL BE EMAILED THE REGISTRATION LINK & SCHEDULE UPON ACCEPTANCE.
(includes lunch and a t-shirt)
For more information, email [email protected]
Clinicians:
Andrew David Perkins (website)
Dr. Pamela Klena
Dr. Gregory Cunningham
Join Us for the 2024 Theatre Day!
Get ready for an exciting day filled with performances, workshops, and insights from our talented faculty and students!
Featuring:
Show 1: Thanksgiving Play
Show 2: Pipeline
Choose Your Experience:
1) Both Shows + Workshops - $40
- Dive into the full Theatre Day experience! Enjoy both shows and participate in engaging workshops where you’ll learn from our dedicated faculty and students.
2) Thanksgiving Play + Workshops - $30
- Join us for Thanksgiving and take part in interactive workshops that will enhance your skills and inspire your creativity.
3) Pipeline + Workshops - $30
- Catch Pipeline and gain access to enriching workshops, perfect for honing your craft and connecting with our community.
We Understand!
If cost is a barrier for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Contact Alex Sellers at [email protected] to discuss how we can work together to find a more affordable option!
What’s Included?
- Admission to the show(s) of your choice
- Access to a panel discussion with the staff from each show
- Engaging workshops led by our esteemed faculty and passionate students
- Dinner and coffee/snacks provided
Tentative Schedule:
- 1:30-2:00 PM: Check-in/registration
- 2:00-3:30 PM: Thanksgiving Play
- 3:45-4:15 PM: Talkback with cast and designers
- 4:15-4:30 PM: Coffee & snacks
- 4:30-5:00 PM: Tour of space
- 5:00-6:00 PM: Workshop or program meetings
- 6:00-7:00 PM: Dinner
- 7:00-7:45 PM: Q&A with Jeremy
- 8:00-9:30 PM: Pipeline
- 9:45-10:15 PM: Talkback with cast and designers
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of theatre! Register now to secure your spot and be part of this unforgettable experience!
Join us for an inspiring day of brass performance, learning, and community at the Brass Expo on Saturday, December 14th, hosted by Oakland University’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance! Open to all high school brass players, the Brass Expo is a fantastic opportunity to rehearse and perform in brass ensembles, culminating in an evening concert with the esteemed Oakland University Brass Band.
What to Expect:
Starting at 1:00 pm, students will be immersed in a series of rehearsals and sectionals led by OU faculty and students. Participants will get the chance to work in focused, instrument-specific groups and come together as a full ensemble, preparing for an unforgettable final performance. Dinner is provided, and the day concludes with a concert at 7:30 pm.
Instructors:
- Kenneth Kroesche – Conductor, Trombone & Euphonium
- Amanda Ross – Trumpet
- David Denniston – French Horn
- Brandon Thibault – Tuba
Cost: $25 per student
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, meet fellow brass enthusiasts, or experience playing in a brass ensemble, this day promises to be educational and fun.
Join Us for a Day of Percussive Exploration at Oakland University!
Attention all percussionists and educators! We are thrilled to invite you to a dynamic, day-long event on January 11th, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, at Oakland University’s Varner Hall. Whether you are interested in marimba, snare drum, steel pans, drumset, African gyil, tabla, percussion ensemble… we’ve got something for everyone!
Kickstart the Day with an OU Student Recital:
Our spectacular students will open the day with a recital featuring the percussion ensemble, the steel band, and select solo performances on marimba, gyil, and more!
Meet Our Esteemed Faculty and Staff:
- Patrick Fitzgibbon, Steel Band/Latin Jazz Ensemble
- Gayelynn McKinney, Applied Drum Set
- Justin Lamb, Applied Concert Percussion/ Chamber Percussion Ensemble
- Mark Stone, African Drum and Xylophone Ensemble/ Creative Jazz Ensemble
Our percussion faculty bring a wealth of experience and expertise across many percussion instruments and styles. You are guaranteed to see something new at this event!
Interactive Mini Clinics:
Throughout the day, we will have quick 40-minute clinics with each of the four faculty above. These sessions will feature an array of percussion instruments and musical styles and participants will be encouraged to play and interact.
MS/HS Percussion Ensembles:
We will have a dedicated hour for local MS & HS percussion ensembles to perform and receive feedback. If you are interested in having your ensemble perform, please email Dr. Justin Lamb ([email protected]) to confirm ensemble instrument needs.
OU Faculty Concert:
At the conclusion of this event, our four percussion faculty members will join forces together to bring you a unique and diverse set of music that will have something for everyone!
Registration:
The cost for this incredible day of music is just $20. This will include lunch for all registrants. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, play, and connect with fellow percussion enthusiasts.
Mark your calendars and register today! We look forward to seeing you there.
Event Cost: $20
Voice Day at Oakland University
Join us for Voice Day at Oakland University, a three-hour immersive experience designed to inspire and develop high school vocalists. Whether you’re preparing for auditions, seeking expert feedback, or looking to grow as a singer, this event provides an invaluable opportunity to work closely with our esteemed faculty.
What to Expect:
- Participate in engaging workshops led by Dr. Alta Boover Dantzler and Dr. Cat Bennett, accomplished performers and educators.
- Work with a professional pianist to elevate your performance.
- Receive personalized feedback to refine your vocal technique and artistry.
Cost: $20 per participant
Special Bonus:
Voice Day attendees will receive free tickets to Oakland University’s opera double feature:
- The Old Maid and the Thief by Gian Carlo Menotti
- The Impresario (Der Schauspieldirektor) by W. A. Mozart
Each participant can also bring two family members to enjoy this exceptional performance.
About the Operas:
• The Old Maid and the Thief by Gian Carlo Menotti:
Originally written for NBC radio, this one-act opera delves into the gossip and secrets of a seemingly quiet town. Middle-aged spinster Miss Todd is thrown into turmoil when a handsome wanderer arrives at her door. As her admiration grows, so do her questionable choices, leading to unexpected twists in this fast-paced and melodramatic opera buffa.
• The Impresario (Der Schauspieldirektor) by W. A. Mozart:
This delightful opera revolves around impresario Frank’s efforts to assemble a troupe of actors and singers amidst their rivalries and whims. From dramatic auditions to feuding prima donnas, the story highlights the chaos and humor of the theatrical world. Ultimately, the performers come together, recognizing that art flourishes through collaboration and harmony.
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your skills, connect with industry professionals, and enjoy an evening of world-class vocal performances!
Pre-register now to save your spot using the following link! Once the registration portal has been activated, an email will be sent out to all pre-registrants to finish signing up.
Please check back for more information shortly.
The Oakland University Youth Saxophone Ensemble (OUYSE) is under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Heisler, professor of saxophone at Oakland University and Alex Sellers, OU SMTD’s recruitment and outreach manager. Open to middle school and high school saxophonists (grades 8-12), the ensemble explores a wide range of music written for large saxophone ensemble utilizing soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones while also developing student’s playing skills and musicianship. In addition to performing in the ensemble, all students receive specialized instruction through sectional coaching by Oakland University saxophone studio students and alumni.
The OUYSE Course meets Sunday afternoons from 1:00 to 3:00 pm for a 12 week session (March - June) at a cost of $250 per student. Culminating concerts will be organized at various venues throughout the community.
Please contact Dr. Jeffrey Heisler or Prof. Alex Sellers for further information at [email protected] & [email protected]
More information will be coming soon. Fill out the form using the button below to be notified once registration launches.
School of Music, Theatre and Dance
371 Varner Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4485
(location map)
Academic Office: (248) 370-2030
Fax: (248) 370-2041
[email protected]
For all event or ticketing questions:
Box Office: (248) 370-3013
Email: [email protected]
School of Music, Theatre and Dance
371 Varner Drive
Rochester, MI 48309-4485
(location map)
Academic Office: (248) 370-2030
Fax: (248) 370-2041
For all event or ticketing questions:
Box Office: (248) 370-3013
Email: [email protected]