The principal music ensembles, in all genres, are open by audition to all qualified students in the population at-large. If you would like to get involved in a music group, CUW has many ensembles from which to choose.
Check out information below to hear a sampling of music by our CUW Ensembles.
The Alleluia Ringers
Director: Dr. John Behnke
Phone: 262.243.4240
In addition to playing concerts throughout the United States, this 6 octave, 72 bell, and 5 octave, 61 handchime touring choir has made two concert tours of Germany in 1992 and 1999, toured to Norway, Sweden, and Estonia in 1995 and again to Norway in 2003. In 2006 they made a concert tour of Latvia. Twice the choir has played for a national AGEHR event. In July of 2007, they played at the AGEHR National Seminar in Dallas, Texas, and in July of 2001, they played for the AGEHR "Handbell Spectacular" National Convention in Palm Springs, CA.
Their relationship with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra started in December of 1992 when the bell choir performed with the Symphony and noted performers Mel Torme and Maureen McGovern under the direction of Doc Severinsen in a program entitled "The Christmas Songs." This program was aired nationally on PBS member stations. They participated with the Symphony and Symphony Chorus again in December of 1999, 2001, and 2006 under the direction of Doc Severinsen.
In 1998, The Alleluia Ringers were selected to record a handbell instructional video entitled "Successful Ringing: Step by Step" for the Schulmerich Handbell Company of Sellersville, PA.
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Chapel Ringers
Director: Dr. John Behnke
Phone: 262.243.4240
The Chapel Ringers frequently enhance chapel services with their uplifting handbell music. This 5 octave handbell choir of 13-14 members provides students an opportunity to learn and perfect handbell techniques. Auditions are held each semester.
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Chorale
Director: Dr. Kenneth Kosche
Phone: 262.243.4239
Chorale is a mixed voice choir of students, faculty, and staff which performs for chapel and church services on campus. They meet over the lunch hour, making it an easy addition to a busy schedule. The brief practices are filled with hard work and camaraderie in a warm, casual environment. Chorale also makes an appearance at Concordia's annual Christmas celebration.
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Jazz Ensemble
Director: Dr. Louis Menchaca
Phone: 262.243.4235
This intimate group of instrumentalists specializes in standard swing, bop, blues, and rock music. Jazz Ensemble is comprised of 10-20 players, and is dedicated to providing entertainment for campus events including popular jazz lunches, visitation days, and concerts. View a Jazz Lunch Performance.
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Kammerchor
Director: Dr. Kenneth T. Kosche
Phone: 262.243.4239
In the German tradition, Concordia's "chamber choir" breathes life into the immortal music of composers from Bach to Rutter, Mendelssohn to Vaughan Williams. As a touring group, Kammerchor has performed in Great Britain, Canada, Taiwan, Brazil and throughout the United States. However, the Karnmerchor still takes pride in hometown recognition, and performs frequently at area churches. Kammerchor, an auditioned, 50 plus member group, is rich with talent and fellowship.
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Organ Club
Advisor: Dr. John Behnke
Phone: 262.243.4240
The goal of the Organ Club is to promote and encourage applied organ students' musical and professional growth through performance and communication opportunities so members may be better equipped to serve as parish musicians. Past activities have included an organ maintenance workshop, tour of Milwaukee organs, a church musician's workshop, and a trip to Martin Ott Organ Builders in St. Louis, Missouri.
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Pep Band
Director: Dr. Louis Menchaca
Phone: 262.243.4235
Pep Band is the spirit behind sporting events. This 50 member group appears at Falcon football and basketball games with songs, chants, and cheers that keep the games running. Pep Band is a professional yet casual group, and is ultimately a fun way for students to visit with one another and unwind.
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Symphonic Wind Ensemble
Director: Dr. Louis Menchaca
Phone: 262.243.4235
This is the premiere 80 piece instrumental ensemble of the university, which performs sacred and classical music from the standard wind repertoire from such composers as Reed, Hoist, and Copland. The group plays three concerts during the year, and appears frequently at local churches. The group has been recognized for its musical ability as it has been invited to concert halls, school, and churches across the country. This is an auditioned ensemble. The group embarks on a 10-day national tour every January across the United States, including the West Coast. The 2001-2002 school year found the group touring England.
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String Ensemble / Chamber Orchestra
Director: Dr. Louis Menchaca
Phone: 262.243.4235
This group is a dual format ensemble which covers the historical span of string repertoire from Baroque to the 20th Centery. Fall semester concertrates on string orchestra while spring semester adds requisite wind, brass, and percussion.
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