University Symphony Orchestra
The University Symphony Orchestra is a core component of the John J. Cali School of Music, where students build strengths in preparation, collaboration, and effective communication, all while striving for the highest standard of performance. The Symphony provides a safe and inclusive environment, bringing together students from across the university—particularly those studying music performance, music education, and music therapy—at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Together, they perform a diverse repertoire, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary symphonic and operatic works. Under the direction of Kyle Ritenauer since 2022, the University Symphony Orchestra maintains a rigorous schedule, presenting four symphonic concerts, a main stage opera, and a variety of projects, guest artists, and collaborations. Central to our mission is providing meaningful performance opportunities for Montclair’s students. To that end, we host an annual Concerto Competition, a Vocal Competition (with winners performing as soloists with the orchestra), and two workshops for student composers to develop their latest works through the experience of a live orchestra.
The Symphony Orchestra consistently collaborates across departments at Montclair State University, including this year’s historic partnership with the University Chorale, under the direction of Dr. Heather J. Buchanan, for the first-ever performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 on our campus.
The University Symphony Orchestra is also deeply involved in opera, working closely with the Cali Opera Program, led by Karen Driscoll, to produce our annual main-stage opera and run the Vocal Competition. In December 2024, the orchestra joined forces with musicians from the Cali School’s Jazz Department and Dr. Oscar Perez to perform Duke Ellington’s Three Black Kings.
The Symphony Orchestra strengthens its connection with the broader community through side-by-side concerts, workshops, and school visits. In partnership with the New Jersey Symphony Youth Orchestra and The Pathways Project, the orchestra provides high school students with the opportunity to perform alongside college musicians.
2025 marks the inaugural Orchestra Conductors Workshop, where middle and high school orchestra directors, under the guidance of Kyle Ritenauer, will enhance their technical and pedagogical skills with the University Symphony Orchestra. Through its Immersive Residency Program, the Symphony Orchestra regularly hosts guest artists such as Daniel Bernard Roumain, Seth Parker Woods, Bela Fleck, Eric Whitacre, and many others, enriching the musical experience for students and audiences alike.
Note: Non-Majors also welcome to audition for Symphony Orchestra.