
Ensembles
Whatever subject you may be studying at Surrey, there are ample opportunities for you to make music whilst you are here.
Guide to music ensembles and societies
Orchestras
University of Surrey Orchestra
We are home to a successful and talented orchestra delivering outstanding performances to the audiences of Guildford, led by Conductor Russell Keable.
Members of the orchestra will have the opportunity to play an assortment of timeless film and TV scores’ including the music of Star Wars and Sherlock. The orchestra will host regular members’ social events providing an opportunity for all members to meet outside of rehearsals.
Entrance to the orchestra for students is by audition and players will be selected to form a high-quality ensemble performing a wide ranging repertoire. Players are generally expected to have reached Grade 7 or above in their instrument.
University String Orchestra
The University String Orchestra is a student-led music ensemble within music and sound recording. The University String Ensemble is open to all students and staff who play a stringed instrument. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings, 6:15pm to 8pm.
Choirs
University Choir
We perform several times a year at St Saviour’s Church and Guildford Cathedral. We have performed with the University Orchestra on a range of challenging works including Brahms Ein Deutsches Requiem, Orff Carmina Burana and Bernstein Chichester Psalms.
To join the choir, you must be a registered student, have a basic level of sight reading and ability to hold a tune.
University Chamber Choir
We perform at a wide range of events throughout the year, both on and off campus, including the esteemed annual University Carol Service at Guildford Cathedral. Our repertoire includes work from Purcell and Parry to new music by student composers.
Auditions take place in October for all students.
‘The Lady is a Tramp’ by Frank Sinatra, performed by the University of Surrey Big Band, with Alex and Jacob on lead vocals. Filmed and produced by Tonmeister students.
What our students say
Read our student profiles to discover first-hand what it's like to study with us.
I was a part of the Orchestra and we regularly held concerts which were extremely enjoyable. It motivated me to continue pursuing practice and performance.Tim McKeever, BSc (Hons)/BMus (Hons) Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister)

Find your society
Experience everything we have to offer in an environment suitable for all, regardless if you're an established performer or somebody who is stepping onto centre-stage for the first time.