Symphony Orchestra
The SUU Symphony Orchestra is open to instrumentalists from the entire campus, regardless of major, and there is no audition to join the ensemble. This group of dedicated musicians performs orchestral masterpieces from the standard symphonic repertoire. Recent concert programs include The Planets by Gustav Holst, Mozart's Coronation Mass, Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5, and more! The ensemble performs each semester. The orchestra regularly provides the pit orchestra for the SUU Opera and hosts an annual High School Honor Orchestra with a renowned guest conductor. For more information, contact Xun Sun (sun@suu.edu).
How to participate:
- Register for MUSC 3380-01 (CRN: 32031)
- Attend Rehearsals: Monday - Thursday at 3:00 p.m.
- Perform 2-3 times per semester on campus and in the community
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to be a music major to join the Symphony Orchestra?
A: No! The Symphony Orchestra is comprised of both Music majors and non-Music majors, all of whom bring exceptional talent and musicianship to the ensemble.
Q: Do I have to audition?
A: Auditions are not required to join the SUU Symphony Orchestra! The only auditions that take place in the group are for Concert Master and First Chair, but those take place after you are already a member of the ensemble.
Q: Why should I join the Symphony Orchestra?
A: There is nothing like being part of a large group of students working together to create beautiful music. Students who are involved in extracurricular activities, especially in the Arts, perform better academically and enjoy a higher quality of life. The Orchestra provides one more way for you to make forever friends, flex your musical skills, and enjoy your experience at Southern Utah University.
About the Director
Dr. Xun Sun serves as the Director of Orchestral Activities at SUU. As a faculty member, his duties include that of conducting the SUU Symphony Orchestra and String Ensemble. In addition, he teaches courses in Advanced Instrumental Conducting and Applied Violin. Dr. Sun conducted the world-renowned China Philharmonic Orchestra in recording a new CD entitled America Journey, music by composers Marshall McDonald and Steve Nelson. He has conducted the Henan Symphony Orchestra, Anhui Symphony, Hunan Symphony Orchestra, the Lviv Philharmonic in the 8th International Contemporary Music Festival in Ukraine, and he was featured as the Guest Conductor of the Khmelnytsky State Philharmonic Symphony. Dr. Sun has been named to The 30 Professionals of the Year, 2015 by Musical America and has received the Educator of the Year Award, 2016 from the American String Teachers Association Utah Chapter, and the 2014 SUU Board of Trustees Award of Excellence.