Registration for the next fall semester is fast approaching, and many students here are near the credit limit of 18 hours per semester. However, if a student has extra room in their schedule and doesn’t want to take an additional class, there is a fun, creative alternative. 

Through the Piedmont University Conservatory, students are able to join an ensemble as a one credit course. This allows students to advance their progress towards graduating, while also participating and learning through the arts. 

Below are the available ensembles:

Piedmont Camerata

Piedmont Singers

Piedmont Wind Ensemble

Piedmont String Orchestra

Piedmont Jazz Ensemble

Dr. Jeri-Mae Astolfi is the Director of the Conservatory as well as the Department Chair and believes there are many benefits to conjoining the arts with academics. 

“Besides the social and cultural benefit, the arts encourage creative thinking and problem solving, critical thinking and reflection, collaboration, empathy and understanding, stronger communication skills and enhance overall well-being,” said Dr. Astolfi.

Senior music performance major Edith Gonzalez has been a member of the ensembles at Piedmont and encourages other students to join as well. 

“Ensembles are open to everyone, even if you aren’t a music major. Some ensembles, such as Piedmont Singers, require you to audition, but we do have ensembles that do not require you to audition,” said Gonzalez

If you are interested in adding an ensemble to your course schedule, contact Dr. Astolfi at jgastolfi@piedmont.edu 

After that, arrange with your academic advisor to discuss adding the ensemble if it fits into your schedule. 

If you are interested in viewing what the Conservatory has to offer for the rest of the spring semester, visit https://www.piedmont.edu/event-category/fine-performing-arts/