Welcome to Music Ensembles at De Anza College

Music at De Anza is all about community, expression, and bringing people together. Whether you are a dedicated music major preparing for transfer, a lifelong player, or simply looking for a supportive environment to pick up your instrument or sing again, our ensembles are designed with you in mind.

Our performance groups thrive on collaboration. We carefully select repertoire and structure our rehearsals to engage musicians at every stage of their journey—ensuring that advanced students are consistently challenged with leadership and solo opportunities, while newer musicians are supported as they grow their skills.

No matter your major or background, there is a chair or a mic waiting for you here.

Our Ensembles

Concert Band & Chamber Orchestra

A vibrant instrumental community for wind, brass, percussion, and string players. Rehearsals bring together musicians from across campus to explore a thrilling mix of classical, contemporary, and popular repertoire.

  • Play in a large, blended ensemble setting that celebrates both orchestral and band traditions. The collaborative environment means you can tackle rich, complex parts if you are an experienced player, or find a comfortable, supportive section if you are returning to your instrument after a break.
  • MUSI 42/ MUSI 31: Tuesday/Thursday 3:30-5:20 PM

De Anza Chorale & Vintage Singers

A dynamic vocal program celebrating the power of communal singing. We perform a diverse mix of choral traditions—from timeless classical pieces to contemporary world music, theater selections, and pop arrangements.

  • Whether you are discovering proper vocal technique for the first time in a large chorus setting or you are an experienced vocalist looking for the tight, intricate harmonies of an advanced chamber choir, you will find a place to lift your voice and perform.
  • MUSI 20/MUSI 21: Monday/Wednesday 3:30-5:20 PM

Jazz Ensemble & Jazz Combos

Dive into the groove, harmony, and spontaneous creativity of jazz. This program explores everything from swing and Latin jazz to fusion and modern improvised music.

  • By blending the powerful energy of a big band with the interactive dynamics of small-group combos, every musician gets what they need. It is the perfect space for seasoned improvisers to stretch their soloing skills and for newer jazz players to build a solid foundation in rhythm and harmony.
  • MUSI 34/MUSI 45: Monday 5:30-9:20 PM

Student Resources & Perks

We are committed to removing barriers so you can focus on making great music. When you join a De Anza ensemble, you gain access to fantastic campus resources:

  • World-Class Performance Venue: Every quarter, our ensembles take the stage in the spectacular Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC). This high-end, acoustically brilliant theater provides our students with a truly professional concert experience.

  • Free Instrument Use: Don't have your own instrument, or unable to bring yours to campus? We have you covered. The department has a diverse inventory of instruments available for our students to use completely free of charge.

  • Dedicated Practice Rooms: Honing your craft is easy with access to our department's private practice rooms. Fully equipped with pianos, these quiet spaces are open and available to all enrolled music students.

  • A Place to Grow: Rehearsals are judgment-free zones focused on musical joy, teamwork, and continuous improvement at your own pace.

How to Get Started

Joining an ensemble is simple, and we are actively welcoming new members for the upcoming quarter! Registration is open through the standard course catalog.

If you have questions about instrument availability, finding the right fit for your experience level, or general enrollment, please reach out. We would love to chat with you about joining our musical family.

  • Contact: Music Department

  • Office Location: Creative Arts Division, Room A-15

  • Phone: (408) 864-8511

  • Email: castrolimamarcel@fhda.edu

Come make music with us this quarter!

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