OFA Instrumental Ensembles

Yosvany Terry, Conductor, Harvard Jazz Orchestra

Founded in 1971, the Jazz Orchestra plays repertoire that spans all the major jazz traditions, from big band to be-bop to Afro-Cuban Jazz. The ensemble is regularly joined by eminent jazz luminaries through the OFA Jazz Resident Artist Program.

Don Braden ’85, Jazz Combo Instructor

The Jazz Combo Initiative provides opportunities for students at various levels to explore jazz in small combos with musicians at a similar level of experience. Each ensemble receives coaching sessions with Don Braden and other jazz guest artists and performs a final concert each semester. In addition, students can participate in open jam sessions and workshops. 

Frederico Cortese, Director, Harvard Radcliffe Orchestra; Senior Lecturer on Music

Founded in 1808, the HRO is Harvard’s premier symphony orchestra. In addition to presenting four professional-level performances each year and biennial international tours, orchestra members engage with greater Boston communities through youth education and elder care.  

Allen Feinstein ’86, Conductor, Harvard Pops Orchestra

The Harvard Pops Orchestra presents an eclectic range of music including classical, film, and pop; theatrical and visual elements; and lots of laughs.  

Mark Olson, Director, Harvard Band & Wind Ensemble

The Harvard University Band is a highly active ensemble performing at athletic games, Harvard official ceremonies, and events in the Boston area. Rooted in tradition, the Band embodies the spirit of community, collaboration, and fun performing not only popular music of the day but traditional Harvard songs.  

Mark Olson, Director, Harvard Band & Wind Ensemble

The Harvard Wind Ensemble provides performance experiences in a wide range of music styles and periods for woodwind, brass, and percussion musicians. Music is selected from a repertoire of original works and transcriptions both for large and chamber ensembles.