Music Outreach Projects
Exploring creative ways for sharing music with new audiences has become an increasingly important skill for young musicians. The University of Texas at El Paso’s Department of Music works diligently to bring music to people in creative and inspiring, non-conventional ways. Each year, our students and faculty continue a tradition of “community” and "communication" by bringing music performance and education to venues both on and off campus.
String Area and Orchestra Outreach
UTEP String Faculty vigorously offer clinics and workshops with numerous local high school string programs in the El Paso vicinity. In addition, TMEA All-Region Orchestra and UIL Solo and Ensemble Clinics are a top priority for interaction with young string players. Other endeavors include performances and presentations in local schools by the Orchestra Outreach Quintet as well as workshops for the students of the El Paso Symphony Youth Orchestras.
To schedule an outreach event, please reach out to any member of our String Area Faculty:
- Jesus Apodaca; Double Bass
- Stephanie Meyers; Violin and Viola
- Stephen Nordstrom; Violin and Viola
- Michael Way; Cello
Wind and Percussion Outreach
The UTEP Wind and Percussion Faculty give All-State clinics free to all high school students on select weekends within the academic year. An annual event for the past several years, UTEP Wind and Percussion Faculty work closely with numerous bands in the Greater El Paso area.
Wind and Percussion Contact: Dr. Andy Smith
Vocal Area Outreach
Each summer, the UTEP Department of Music hosts the All-State Choir Camp, a week of fun-filled activities geared toward learning the TMEA All-State choral repertoire. Activities include master classes with UTEP Voice Faculty, vocal jazz and barbershop reading sessions, and Viewpoints acting workshops, concluding in a Friday concert.
If you have any questions call the UTEP Choral Office at (915) 747-7081, or contact Dr. Elisa Fraser Wilson
Email: ewilson@utep.edu
Music for the Young at Heart (Piano or Opera)
One of the most rewarding experiences finds out UTEP music majors and faculty interacting with some of our city's most passionate music lovers -- those who live in the assisted living communities throughout town. Our students frequently perform at the Monte Vista Retirement Community, Good Samaritan White Acres and Continuing Educations programs at various El Paso public libraries.
Piano Outreach contact: Dr. Dena Kay Jones, Director of Piano Area
Opera Outreach contact: Cherry Duke, Director of Opera UTEP
UTEP 2019 Honor Percussion Ensemble
UTEP Percussion hosts the high school Honor Percussion Ensemble annually in the Spring semester. High school percussionists (grades 9–12) apply via a simple google form and a short video audition. Selected applicants participate in intensive rehearsals over two to three days with renowned guest conductors, and perform a collaborative concert with UTEP Percussion.
For more information, and to apply, visit http://utep.edu/percussion
Percussion contact: Andy Smith , Director of Percussion
Digital Keyboard Lab
One of the finest technology labs combining keyboard pedagogy and technology, all who enter this unique teaching and performance space can experience a “hands-on” approach to music. Music and non-music students alike experience the power of this keyboard lab! Also a place for local piano teachers to visit for continuing education, piano pedagogues experts Dr. Martha Hilley of UT Austin and Dr. Lisa Zdechlik of the University of Arizona have presented phenomenal workshops, demonstrating how to combine music and technology. The Roland Corporation has deemed this space as one of the best in the world.
For more information, contact Dr. Chris Reyman
