Our Ensemble Program

       The VA Vocal Ensemble performs at Parents' Weekend Cabaret.

Jazz Ensemble:  Through intensive ensemble rehearsal, this class will provide members with the knowledge of and ability to perform music from the jazz, funk, latin, and contemporary literature.  Two rehearsals per week make this ½ class an easy addition to a musician’s academic schedule. The group focuses on ensemble playing of music of all styles, as well as improvisational and instrumental technique. The ensemble presents upwards of 6 concerts each year to excitable audiences.  All instrumental students are welcome to enroll, with occasional limitations based on instrumentation. Jazz Ensemble is a year long class offered during H period.

Vocal Ensemble:  Through ensemble rehearsal, this class will provide members with the knowledge of and ability to perform music from many genres, including jazz, classical, madrigal, musical theater, spiritual, and contemporary literature.  Two rehearsals per week make this ½ class an easy addition to a musician’s academic schedule. The group also works on vocal techniques. The ensemble presents upwards of 6 concerts each year.  In addition, students are also eligible for off campus festivals, such as the All-New England Choral Festival, Vermont All-State, and District Festivals. Vocal Ensemble is a year long class offered during H period.

Chamber Ensemble:  This ensemble caters to the musicians at VA who are more interested in classical repertoire.  Our group usually carries 10-15 members including strings, winds, brass, and other instruments where appropriate.  Our literature includes arrangements of well-known classical pieces as well as examples of music from film and popular culture.  Two rehearsals per week make this ½ class an easy addition to a musician’s academic schedule.  This ensemble presents numerous concerts throughout the school year, adding balance to concert programs featuring Jazz and Vocal Ensembles.  


Windham Orchestra:  A community and professional regional orchestra based out of the Brattleboro Music Center, the Windham Orchestra has a long history of bringing high quality orchestral music to Southern Vermont. With special arrangement, Vermont Academy students have the opportunity to participate in the orchestra’s full season of concerts, two of which are performed at Vermont Academy in Horowitz Hall. The orchestra plays repertoire from the Baroque through the 20th century, and offers its musicians a great opportunity to play classical music at a high level.  Amongst other Vermont Academy faculty, Music Department instructor Steve Cady is a regular member as principal double bassist. 

Student Bands:  During free time, students relax and play music together in common areas and in the Music Department practice rooms. Students play all styles with the guidance and encouragement of many musical faculty members. Student bands are featured during numerous performance opportunities throughout the year, including Parents Weekend cabarets, Earth Day, fundraisers, talent shows, and impromptu coffee houses.