Discover Your Passion, Perform Your Story
Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band
The Spirit of Northwestern is more than a marching band—it’s the heartbeat of Demon spirit. With powerful performances at football games, campus events, and national showcases, this 300-member ensemble blends musicianship, precision, and energy that inspires pride across the NSU community. From the field to the stage, the Spirit of Northwestern creates unforgettable experiences and lifelong memories.
- Drums on the Cane: September 13, 2025
- Classic on the Cane: November 1, 2025
NATCHITOCHES-NORTHWESTERN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
The Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra brings together talented students, faculty, and community musicians in powerful performances that enrich both Northwestern State University and the surrounding region. Under the leadership of Dr. Douglas Bakenhus, the Symphony performs classical masterworks alongside contemporary compositions, highlighting artistry, collaboration, and musical excellence.
From intimate chamber concerts to large-scale productions, the Symphony provides students with invaluable professional training and performance experience while inspiring audiences through dynamic and memorable programs.
String Instrument Scholarships: Scholarships are available for qualified string players. Students are encouraged to audition to join one of NSU’s premier performing ensembles. To schedule an audition, please contact:
Dr. Douglas Bakenhus, Director of Orchestral Activities
NSU Choirs
With more than 150 singers across five ensembles, the NSU Choirs offer one of the most dynamic choral programs in Louisiana. Open to both music majors and non-majors, students gain real-world experience through diverse repertoire, innovative performances, and mentorship from exceptional faculty and guest artists. From international tours to local showcases, NSU Choirs prepare students for success in music education, vocal performance, sacred music, and beyond. Sing your story with Northwestern State University Choirs.
To schedule an audition, please contact:
Dr. Shane Thomas, Director of Choral Activities
thomassh@nsula.edu | 318-357-5755
August 18 First Day of Classes
August 30 All-State Day | 9am – 3pm | CAPA
October 3 Choral Festival | 9am – 6pm | Magale Recital Hall
October 14 Chamber Choir Fall Concert | 7:30pm | Magale Recital Hall
October 17 Chamber Choir LA-ACDA Performance | 7pm | New Orleans
October 24-25 Fall Opera | 7:30pm | Magale Recital Hall
October 26 Lyrica and Orpheus Fall Concert | 3:00pm | Magale Recital Hall
November 13-15 Regional NATS Conference
November 16 Cane River Singers Performance | 3:00pm | Magale Recital Hall
December 3-5 Christmas GALA | A.A. Fredericks
December 9 Chamber Choir Lessons and Carols | 7:30pm | Minor Basilica
December 16 Messiah Sing-Along | 5:00pm | Trinity Episcopal Church
*schedule is subject to change
Audition Requirements
- At least one prepared solo. Voice majors in Music Performance, Education, or Business will be expected to sing 2 solos with 1 in a foreign language. Suggested repertoire is an Italian Art Song or Aria, English Art Song, a solo you would sing for Solo and Ensemble Festival
- We will take you through a series of vocal exercises to explore your vocal range.
- Sight-reading: you will be asked to sight-read short examples ranging in difficulty.
- You will be asked to sing back brief melodies to test your tonal memory.
- Please remember to bring a copy of your music for the accompanist.
