What is Columbia Pops?

In 2014, a group of Columbia undergraduates established Columbia Pops. Entirely student-run, Columbia Pops’ goal is to engage students not only as performance artists but also as arrangers, conductors, and much more.

Through a shared passion for music, our musicians aim to foster learning and a sense of community around what is perhaps one of the most interesting and fulfilling performance styles of classical instruments today, “pop.”

What do we do?

Columbia Pops plays a diverse repertoire including film and television scores, Broadway hits, jazz tunes, popular classical works, video game soundtracks, and more! All orchestral and chamber arrangements are student-arranged by our very own members.

The Pops Orchestra holds weekly rehearsals in preparation for two concerts that are held at the end of each semester.

Many of our members are also involved in Pops Chamber Groups, which organize their own jam sessions and/or rehearsals. Some of our chamber groups represent the Columbia Pops community at a multitude of campus events such as Days on Campus by performing their chamber arrangements in front of the larger Columbia community.

Who are the musicians?

The ensemble currently boasts a diverse group of talented musicians from all four undergraduate (CC, SEAS, GS, Barnard) and graduate schools. While each member has unique interests, majors, and backgrounds, what unites us all is a love for creating and sharing music with others. If you are musically inclined, consider joining us! (click here for audition information)

What makes us special?

While we are a music group, Columbia Pops is so much more than just the music we create. Columbia Pops is a socially tight-knit community that gives Columbia students the opportunity to find new friendships through various bonding events, fundraising activities, and an intercollegiate Pops Summit.

Interested members are also given the opportunity to showcase their creativity through videography and graphic design. (Check out the videos and art tabs on our website!)

For more information about Columbia Pops, feel free to browse the website, email us at popsboard@columbia.edu, or keep up to date by following our facebook, instagram, and youtube!