Winds, Brass and Percussion
Woodwind Area
Brass and Percussion Area
ABOUT THE WOODWIND AREA
The Woodwind Studies Program at the California State University at Fullerton (CSUF) School of Music offers a dynamic and enriching educational experience with a diverse range of opportunities. From symphonic winds to orchestra, jazz bands, and chamber ensembles, the School of Music provides students with an extensive repertoire and the performance skills needed to succeed as today’s musicians. Our world-class faculty are dedicated to student success and work closely with students to help them become the best musicians they can be, ensuring they are well-prepared for any path they choose to pursue.
The University Wind Symphony , Symphonic Winds , and University Band emphasize musical performance and are part of a long-standing tradition that celebrates and maintains America’s rich cultural heritage. These ensembles perform works by composers such as Sousa, Gershwin, Kevin Day, Bernstein, Ives, Copland, and others. Through studying and performing this repertoire, our students not only develop a deep appreciation for contemporary music but also contribute to the tradition of excellence in wind performance at CSUF and uphold the legacy of the American Concert Band.
The University Orchestra is dedicated to training exceptional instrumentalists in a wide range of orchestral styles. Alongside the regular concert series, the orchestra collaborates with University choruses, Opera Theatre, CSUF faculty-artists, and internationally renowned guest artists. Students also have numerous opportunities to study orchestral repertoire through masterclasses led by CSUF faculty and other distinguished professionals from across the United States and abroad.
ABOUT THE BRASS AND PERCUSSION AREA
The Brass and Percussion Program at Cal State Fullerton offers an exciting and enriching variety of opportunities for a diverse education. From symphonic winds to orchestra and jazz bands to chamber ensembles like percussion ensemble and brass ensemble, the School of Music at CSUF provides its students with a wide range of repertoire and performance skills to meet the demands of today’s musicians. The University Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band and University Band, with an emphasis on musical performance, are part of an ongoing tradition aimed to perpetuate and maintain a great American cultural heritage. These ensembles perform music by composers including Sousa, Gershwin, Kevin Day, Bernstein, Ives, Copland and others. Through the study and performance of this genré, musicians will not only develop an appreciation for the music of our time, but will further the tradition of excellence in wind performance at Cal State Fullerton, as well as the traditions of the American Concert Band. University Orchestra is dedicated to the training of outstanding instrumentalists in the performance of a wide range of styles in the orchestral repertoire. In addition to the regular concert series, the orchestra collaborates with University choruses, Opera Theatre, CSUF faculty-artists and internationally renowned guest artists. Students have numerous opportunities to study orchestral repertoire in master class settings with CSUF faculty and other professionals from throughout the United States and abroad.
WOODWIND AREA BELIEFS & VALUES
At the CSUF School of Music, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive and inspiring environment that encourages personal growth, creativity, and collaboration. We are here to help you not only become a better musician, but also build the confidence, network, and experiences that will set you up for lasting success.
BRASS AND PERCUSSION AREA BELIEFS & VALUES
The CSUF Brass and Percussion Area prides itself on creating an environment where each student has the potential to continually realize their full potential. You will be challenged and inspired by our world-class faculty and conductors, but also surrounded by student musicians who will become your best friends as you march towards academic and artistic success.
WOODWIND ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
"The program and faculty at CSUF have truly shaped me into the musician and educator I am today. My applied music professors pushed me to exceed my own expectations, always encouraging me to go beyond my limits. Their guidance, along with countless hours of practice, allowed me to set and reach goals I never thought possible. Being part of such a talented and driven community inspired me to perform at my very best, whether as a soloist, chamber musician, or in large ensembles. I am grateful for the invaluable experience and mentorship I received at CSUF."
Christy Nguyen
Instrument: Clarinet
Ensembles: Wind Symphony, Symphonic Orchestra, Symphonic Winds
Degree: Graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Instrumental Performance) and simultaneously completed the Music Education credential program requirements
Clubs: NAfME
Honors: Håkan Rosengren Scholarship, Summa Cum Laude
BRASS AND PERCUSSION ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
“The CSUF School of Music prepared me for professional life after college. The music education program has excellent faculty with connections to schools and educators all over Southern California. There are many professional organizations at the school to network with other aspiring musicians and educators. There are several ensembles to be a part of as well as amazing performers and educators on faculty. I am grateful for all of the lessons that I learned during my tenure as a student.”
Ivan Morales
Instrument: Trumpet
Ensembles: Wind Symphony, Symphonic Orchestra, Fullerton Jazz Orchestra big band, Brass Ensemble, Brass Quintet, and student-led Mexican Banda
Degree: Graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Instrumental Performance major) and simultaneously completed the Music Education credential program requirements
Clubs: Founder and former President, Titan Brass Club; Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Brother
Honors: Sole recipient, 2021 CSUF School of Music Brass Area Award
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: I am a woodwind player interested in becoming a music major at CSUF. How do I begin that process?
A: Becoming a music major at CSUF is a two-step process. First, you must apply to the university through CalState Apply and gain admission to the university itself. Second, you will need to pass an entrance audition with the School of Music to secure your spot in the program. Auditions are held annually (February for Fall semester entry and October for Spring semester entry).
Q: What if I don’t pass the entrance audition but get admitted to the university?
A: Do not worry! You can still attend CSUF and audition again to become a music major. In fact, you may be able to take some music courses while preparing for your next audition, even if you are not yet a music major.
Q: What is a typical day like for a CSUF music major?
A: Your day will likely include academic music courses like music theory, music history, and more. In the afternoon, you will head to rehearsals with large ensembles like wind band, orchestra, or jazz band. Alongside your music courses, you will also take General Education classes like English, sciences, and others required for any CSUF degree.
Q: Can I participate in both classical and jazz ensembles?
A: Absolutely! Many of our students perform in multiple ensembles. You can participate in as many as your schedule (and chops!) allow. Some woodwind students, for example, are involved in wind band, orchestra, jazz band, and jazz combos all in the same semester. A clarinetist who also plays saxophone, for instance, might join both a jazz combo and classical ensembles.
Q: Will I have someone to guide me through my academic journey at CSUF as a music major?
A: Yes! Every music major is assigned a faculty advisor from the School of Music. You will meet with your advisor at least once per semester for formal advising, and they are available throughout the semester to help with course selection, answer questions, and ensure you’re on track to graduate on time.
Q: I’ve taken college-credit courses or music courses at community colleges. Will these credits transfer to CSUF?
A: Yes! During the admission process through CalState Apply, you will submit your transcripts. The university will evaluate your General Education credits, and the School of Music will determine which of your music courses can transfer.
Q: Can I major in Performance and also pursue Music Education?
A: Yes! While you won’t receive two separate degrees, you can major in Performance and complete the requirements for the Music Education credential (link this to music education FAQ about the credential) at the same time. Many of our performance majors do this, and they go on to have successful careers in both performance and education. Plus, our Music Education program has an almost 100% job placement rate after completing the credential!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: I am a brass or percussion student interested in becoming a music major at CSUF. How do I begin that process?
A: Becoming a music major is a two-fold process. First, you must apply to CSUF (via CalStateApply) and gain admission to the university itself. Second, you must pass an entrance audition with the School of Music to secure a seat in our program. Auditions are held yearly (February for Fall semester entry; October for Spring semester entry).
Q: What if I do not pass the entrance audition, but am admitted to the university?
A: You can still attend CSUF as a student and audition again to become a music major! It is possible to take some music major courses (even while you are not a music major) as you prepare for your entrance audition.
Q: What is a day in the life of a CSUF music major?
A: Typically, you will attend your academic music courses like music theory, music history, and so forth. Later in the day you will find yourself in rehearsals with large ensembles like wind band, orchestra, and jazz band. Additionally, you will take General Education courses like English, Sciences, etc. that are required in any CSUF degree.
Q: Is it possible to participate in classical ensembles and jazz ensembles?
A: Absolutely! You may participate in as many ensembles as your schedule (and chops!) allow. Some of our brass and percussion students participate in wind band, orchestra, jazz band, jazz combos all within the same semester!
Q: Will I have someone to guide me through my academic journey at CSUF as a music major?
A: Yes! All music majors are assigned a School of Music faculty advisor. You will meet with this advisor for formal advising at least once per semester. Advisors are available throughout each semester to answer your questions, help you choose your music classes, and make sure you graduate on time. Additionally, the Academic Advising Center's advisors will guide you each semester on how to complete your General Education requirements.
Q: I have taken college-credit courses and/or music courses at community colleges. Will these courses transfer if I attend CSUF?
A: As part of the admission process (via CalStateApply), you will submit your transcripts to the university. The university will inform you of the General Education courses that will transfer, and the School of Music will inform you which of your music courses will transfer.
Q: Can I enroll as a Performance major but also double major in Music Education?
A: Yes! While you will not receive two separate degrees, it is possible for you to simultaneously be a Performance major and complete the course requirements for the Music Education credential. Many of our performance major students accomplish this every year and go on to careers in both performance and education. Note that our Music Education program boasts a near 100% job placement rate after completing the Credential program!
WHY BECOME A TITAN OF WOODWINDS AT CAL STATE FULLERTON?
The CSUF Music Education Program is artistic and intellectual environment that is designed to inspire, guide and collaborate with participating students. Blending the best of the traditional school of music performance environment with the academic study of the best of music education pedagogy – The CSUF Music Education Program is about collaboration, community, academic scholarship, and artistry. The Cal State Fullerton School of Music provides a thorough preparation for your future success as a music teacher.
We invite you to become a “Titan” of Music Education!
Sincerely,
Michael Yoshimi
Assistant Professor of Clarinet
Area Coordinator, Woodwinds
myoshimi@fullerton.edu
WHY BECOME A TITAN OF BRASS AND PERCUSSION AT CAL STATE FULLERTON?
The CSUF Brass and Percussion Area is proud to have students who hail from all walks of life and the arts. Many of our students go on to become leaders in the arts- whether they become teachers, performers, or a bit of both. Our high standards of performance push students to realize their full potential, and in a medium-size School of Music, receive the kind of individual attention that larger programs cannot offer.
Our Applied faculty who teach private lessons are top musicians from the Southern California region. You will find them performing in orchestras like the L.A.Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony Orchestra, and Hollywood studios.
The greatest strength of our School of Music are our students! You will find a super welcoming environment where you will be surrounded by students who support your success. We have become known as one of the most friendly schools where it is quite easy to make music friends for life.
Why not find out for yourself? Contact Professor Mathai anytime and schedule a personal tour of the School of Music. While you are here on campus, we can help you schedule a guided tour of the entire CSUF campus. Please fill out the quick and easy form to be added to our email list. We will email you further information about the application and audition process!
Sycil Mathai
Associate Professor of Trumpet
Area Coordinator, Brass and Percussion
smathai@fullerton.edu
