Ensembles

Students and staff are welcome to participate in the University's many performing groups. Most groups are also open to musicians from outside the University. Rehearsals usually start after 5pm during the week.

All ensembles meet at Kingston Hill campus, either in Coombehurst House, Coombehurst Studio, or in the Drama Studio (Djembe). This site is easily accessible via the inter-campus bus. Wherever you are studying, there will always be free transport for you.

Gamelan

An ensemble of tuned percussion instruments from the islands of Java and Bali in the Indonesian archipelago. The Kingston University Gamelan originates from central Java. Since its arrival, student ensembles have been giving concerts within the University and as part of the Elmbridge Festival, and school groups are also regularly taught. The Gamelan is directed by noted scholar of Javanese Music, Peter Smith. For more information about this ensemble, please contact  Maria Busen-Smith.

Djembe

An ensemble of African drums, the most popular African drum outside the African continent. If you enjoy rhythm, this group is for you! The Djembe ensemble is directed by Djembe expert Hans Sutton and performs in the university, in local schools and as part of local festivals. For more information, contact  Collegiate Music.

Chamber Choir

Membership, by audition, includes both Kingston University students and staff as well as members from the community at large. The Chamber Choir performs at a wide variety of venues representing the University around the Borough and beyond, this year including at Graduation Ceremonies in the Royal Festival Hall and at the Rose Theatre. The Chamber Choir is directed by Dr David Osbon. For more information, contact  Collegiate Music.

University Chorus

Membership includes both Kingston University students and staff as well as members from the community at large. The Chorus performs at least two programmes of choral music a year and new members are always welcome. The programme this year includes works by John Cameron, David Fanshawe, Barbara Thompson and the Coronation Anthems by Handel. The Chorus is directed by Dr David Osbon, and as of this year, will incorporate contemporary/gospel music as well as the more traditional chorus works. For more information, contact  Collegiate Music.

Big Band

Open to all students of Kingston University. Players must be able to read music, approximately Grade 6 level or equivalent. The first two rehearsals are a trial period during which positions in the band will be kept open. The Big Band is one of the busiest performing ensembles in the University and is directed by leading trumpet player Andy Gibson. For more information contact  Collegiate Music.

Symphony Orchestra

Performs established as well as contemporary repertoire. Recent programmes have included music by Grieg, Purcell and Mozart, and for this year the programme includes works by Cameron and Handel. The orchestra is open to all students and staff of Kingston University and the Kingston community. Players of string instruments particularly welcome. This year the Symphony Orchestra will perform in the Royal Festival Hall. The Symphony Orchestra is directed by Head of Collegiate Music, Dr David Osbon. For more information contact  Collegiate Music.

Improvisation Ensemble

Led by music lecturer and jazz pianist Meredith White, this ensemble focuses mainly on jazz and blues. Bring your instrument (if portable!) - all welcome. For more information contact Collegiate Music.