The University of Arkansas Saxophone Studio is a welcoming community of about 20 undergraduate and graduate saxophonists at U of A. The students engage in solo, chamber, and large ensemble repertoire through weekly lessons, studio classes, quartet coaching, and saxophone Ensemble with Dr. Hetrick, as well as through ensembles with the University of Arkansas Bands, Jazz Area, and more. Students have the opportunity to perform with a diverse array of additional ensembles that include Soul Band, Latin Ensemble, World Music Ensemble, Inspire Chorale, and more. We are fortunate to have Professor Michael Hanna, a local and accomplished professional, as the dedicated applied jazz saxophone instructor. In our weekly studio classes, we cover topics related to business and entrepreneurship, job readiness, musicians' health, saxophone pedagogy, reed maintenance and care, extended techniques, efficient practicing, performance anxiety, culturally sustaining pedagogy, and much more. In addition to performances on campus and in the community, the studio has performed across the country at events such at the North American Saxophone Alliance Biennial Conference, the International Saxophone Symposium, the SHE Festival, and more.
The studio hosts a yearly Saxophone Workshop, in which we work with over 80 attendees ranging in age from middle school - professional. Past guests have included Dr. Jan Berry Baker, Professor Taimur Sullivan, and more. Additionally, students frequently engage with guest artists in performance classes and recitals. Past guests have included Dr. Shawna Pennock, Dr. Stephen Page, Dr. Matthew Tracy, Dr. Johnny Salina, Dr. Myles Boothroyd, Dr. Nathan Mertens, and many others.
The University of Arkansas Saxophone Studio has a strong network of active alumni now working as professionals in various positions in Arkansas and around the country. Their positions include those in elementary music, band directing, applied teaching, administration, healthcare, and more. Alumni frequently return to campus to share their experiences and knowledge with current students.
University of Arkansas offers several degree plans; Music Education, Music Performance, Music Composition, Music Theory, a BA in Music, a Double Major, and a Music Minor. Each of these degree paths are eligible for scholarship. If you're interested in performing in ensembles, all majors are welcome!
