Music at Mines adds a layer of creative expression and camaraderie – taking students beyond their study of earth, energy, and environment. Offered through HASS, students may choose from academic courses, such as Music Theory and Music History, or participate in one of Mines’ talented and award-winning performance groups.

CLASSES

Participation in the Band, Orchestra, Choir, and Jazz Band (or any LIMU class) can count for up to 3 hours of free elective credit. If a course has the HASS prefix (such as Music History or Music Theory), it can be used for the HASS graduation credit. Facilities for the music program include rehearsal rooms and a computer lab equipped with Pro Tools, Finale, and similar software for student use.

PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Mines has a full orchestra program where students can rehearse and perform timeless compositions by major orchestral composers from the seventeenth century to the present. We have an open-enrollment policy as there is no formal audition to join the orchestra. The Orchestra rehearses twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 to 4:50 in the main concert hall on campus, and presents a full-length concert at the end of every semester. Spring semester of 2026 marks the Orchestra’s debut performance at the Carnegie Hall in New York City.

BAND

The Colorado School of Mines Band was established over 50 years ago and has a rich tradition of performing for the school and the community. The traditional Mines Marching Band with red and black plaid shirts, jeans, hiking boots, and hard hat represents a unique image among university bands. Band members also play in small ensembles for different occasions during the year.

JAZZ BAND

Jazz Band at Mines provides two types of group experience with the Big Band and smaller Jazz Combos. Both are outlets for aspiring musicians to advance and showcase their skills. The students participate in public concerts at the end of each semester.

CHOIR

The Colorado School of Mines Concert Choir presents a variety of music in concerts on and off campus. The Choir rehearses twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 to 4:50 on campus, and performs in a concert at the end of every semester.

STUDENT JOBS

Students with work-study awards may work in the music program. Please contact the Financial Aid office to find out if you are eligible.