Non-Western Ensembles

As a music major at PSU we can offer you two non-Western music ensembles to join: Javanese Gamelan and our Mariachi Ensemble. Known for their inclusive attitude and unique style, these ensembles provide an alternative large ensemble environment for PSU music students and non-majors alike.

This course is open to all students—no prior musical experience is required. Instruction is hands-on and accessible, with an emphasis on learning by doing, listening, and playing as a group.

Gamelan is especially suited for those drawn to a reflective, collaborative approach to music-making, where no single part dominates. Valued for its balance, subtlety, and communal harmony, it offers a deeply immersive experience that differs from many Western musical traditions.

Participation Information

Register for the course - MUP 194/394/594. Space is limited. 

Class meets Fridays from 3:00-4:45pm in Lincoln Hall room 37 during fall, winter and spring terms.

The primary requirement to participate is being in class during class time. A large part of the grade is based on participation. 

Director: Mindy Johnston mindyj@pdx.edu

The Mariachi ensemble has music majors, non-music majors, and community members of all ages and experience levels performing together, making it truly a community-based ensemble. To hire the Mariachi ensemble, please email mariachi@pdx.edu.

Other instruments may be considered depending on the needs of the group in any given term. Alternative instruments are subject to instructor approval. If you do not own your instrument, you may rent an instrument through the School of Music and Theater. Instrument rentals are subject to inventory and approval by the department.

Participation Information

Register for the course - MUP 194/394/594.

Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 6-8pm in Lincoln Hall room 21 during fall, winter and spring term.

• Students should have a working knowledge of their primary instrument and an understanding of 100-level music theory- not required but highly encouraged. The primary instruments for mariachi are classical guitar (nylon strings), vihuela, B-flat trumpet, guitarron, violin, and voice. 
• Students interested in learning a secondary mariachi instrument are welcome to do so, however, students will not receive private instruction from the director/instructor. Instead, students will engage in self-study with some guidance from the instructor/director and support from returning students who may have an intermediate to advanced level of proficiency on their respective instrument(s). 
• Private lessons for all instruments including voice are strongly encouraged but not required.

Community members interested in joining PSU’s Mariachi should contact Joe Soto at mariachi@pdx.edu to ensure an appropriate fit, based on expectations and needs of the group in any given term.

Director: Joe Soto, mariachi@pdx.edu