NVC Chorale – MUSI 160 

The Napa Valley College Chorale brings together a vibrant community of voices, uniting NVC students pursuing their academic goals with passionate singers from throughout the Napa community. Students can earn valuable college credit through this ensemble, fulfilling requirements for their AA-T degree and laying the foundation for lower-level major requirements at four-year institutions or music minors. Under the skilled direction of Mr. Duncan Cooper, this diverse choir creates a welcoming environment where college students and community members alike can explore choral literature, develop their vocal artistry, and experience the joy of making music together. The chorale serves as both an essential academic component for students charting their educational path and a cultural cornerstone for music lovers throughout the Napa Valley. 

Jazz Ensemble – MUSI 181 

The Napa Valley College Jazz Ensemble offers an exciting opportunity for both enrolled students and community musicians to explore the rich traditions and contemporary innovations of jazz music. NVC students can earn college credit through participation in this dynamic ensemble, meeting requirements for their AA-T degree while building essential lower-level major coursework for transfer to four-year universities or pursuit of a music minor. Under the expert leadership of its director, Peter Estabrook, this versatile group welcomes jazz enthusiasts from across the Napa Valley community, creating an inclusive environment where seasoned musicians and developing artists collaborate to master everything from swing standards to modern fusion. The ensemble provides students with crucial academic credit toward their degree goals while serving as a vibrant hub for the region’s jazz community, fostering musical growth and artistic expression through the language of America’s original art form. 

Repertory Orchestra – MUSI 176 

The NVC Repertory Orchestra provides students with an exceptional semester-long ensemble experience, offering the unique opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside accomplished musicians from throughout the Napa Valley community in Symphony Tierra. NVC students earn valuable academic credit toward their AA-T degree and lower-level major requirements for four-year transfer or music minor while developing their skills through regular rehearsals with professional players, educators, and experienced community musicians. Under expert direction of Festival Napa Valley sponsored conductor, Samantha Burgess, students benefit from this mentoring environment throughout the semester, building their technique and musicianship while preparing thoughtfully curated programs. The NVC Repertory Orchestra serves as an essential academic pathway that elevates the student experience, providing aspiring musicians with the invaluable opportunity to learn from and perform with seasoned players while fulfilling their degree requirements through sustained, collaborative musical study. 

Symphony Tierra at Napa Valley College 

Symphony Tierra is a project-based orchestra rooted in the creative spirit of Napa Valley. Convening once per semester, we unite professional, semi-professional players, educators, freelancers, students, and passionate community players for concerts that celebrate artistry, inclusivity, and connection. Inspired by the region’s tradition of cultivation and collaboration, Symphony Tierra offers thoughtfully curated programs that enrich our community and reflect the enduring vitality of live orchestral music.