With the Portland Center for the Performing Arts (PCPA) and other performance venues nearby, students enjoy many opportunities to hear the finest musicians in the world. Students gain practical performance experience by participating with many professional and pre-professional groups including Portland Opera, Portland Symphonic Choir, Oregon Symphony Orchestra, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Musical Theater Company, and the Portland Youth Philharmonic. No other institution in the state offers so many opportunities for young musicians.
Florestan Trio
This nationally recognized trio has recorded for PBS and toured Japan. Compact discs are available on the Gagliano label. The ensemble features Janet Guggenheim (piano), Professor Carol Sindell (violin), and Professor Hamilton Cheifetz (cello).
Ensemble Viento
This faculty ensemble has performed throughout the Northwest. Compact discs are available on the Centaur label. The ensemble features GeorgeAnne Ries (flute), Karen Strand (oboe), Dr. Stan Stanford (clarinet), Professor Larry Johnson (French horn), and Dr. Ann Crandall (bassoon).
Trio Spektrum
This ensemble has presented concerts nationally and recorded a compact disc of Czech music. The ensemble features Emeritus Professor Dr. Marilyn Shotola (flute), Dr. Stan Stanford (clarinet), and Professor Emeritus Tomas Svoboda (piano).
Faculty Composers
The department boasts many active and published composers whose works have been performed across the globe. Composers include Professor Emeritus Tomas Svoboda, Professor Bryan Johanson, Dr. Brad Hansen, Professor Darrell Grant, Professor Charles Gray, Instructor Jon Newton, and Dr. Bonnie Miksch.