Being Musical in Rochester
One of the main reasons why I chose to attend the University of Rochester is because of its many musical opportunities and events. You can take free lessons at Eastman, join orchestra or band, or even form your own musical group with friends. There are many exciting performances to attend, especially towards the end of the semester, so make sure to not miss these opportunities!
1. A cappella concerts
The University of Rochester has some of the best a cappella groups in the country that have won awards and even published their own CDs. There are many groups to choose from—Vocal Points is an all-female group, and the YellowJackets and Midnight Ramblers are also popular on campus. A cappella concerts are full of amazing voice and music, and they’re a lot of fun to attend with friends. Plus, students get discounts!
2. Eastman concerts
The Eastman School of Music has music events almost every day throughout the semester. You can choose from student concerts to Eastman Philharmonic Orchestra concerts, and the genres range from classical to contemporary jazz. Eastman also invites some of the best musicians, like world-famous pianists and jazz soloists to perform. For Rochester students, tickets are usually free.
3. Wind Symphony Orchestra
Once or twice a semester, the University of Rochester’s Wind Symphony Orchestra has concerts to show students’ hard work and talent right on the River Campus. If you don’t have enough time to go all the way to the Eastman School for a concert, then stay on campus and enjoy fellow Rochester students’ musical talent (for free)!
4. Independent café concerts
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, go out to the Rochester downtown area and visit cafés and bars for live music! Some suggestions are Abilene, a lively bar with band music almost every night, and The Little Theatre on East Ave. You can always find yourself nodding to good music in the City of Rochester on weekend nights.
If you have any other suggestions for good music events on campus or around the city, let me know! Rochester is a great place for music-lovers, both players and listeners alike, and I encourage everyone who hasn’t attended a musical event on campus to get yourself a ticket right now!