The University of Connecticut Percussion Ensemble is an integral part of the percussion program. The ensemble strives to bring relevant and exciting compositions for percussion to the UConn stage. Both undergraduate and graduate percussion majors perform in the ensemble as it serves to strengthen students' musical and technical abilities on all percussion instruments. The members develop skills in the chamber ensemble that will serve them in many aspects of performing, creating and teaching music. The ensemble plays a wide variety of repertoire from various periods and countries. Students play a myriad of instruments that range from triangle to timpani to table-tops. Audiences find that percussion literature, although sometimes unfamiliar, has widespread appeal. The UConn percussion ensemble performs throughout the academic year and has been featured in various off-campus events.

The 17-piece Jazz Lab Band is designed to function as a feeder system, training and developing students to climb the ranks from the Lab Band to the Jazz Ensemble. In rehearsals, the Lab Band focuses on sight-reading and repertoire chosen to teach and reinforce the stylistic nuances of big band jazz. A wide range of music is performed, including pieces by Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, Mel Lewis, Bill Holman, Bob Mintzer, and new works by the ensemble's director.

Opera Outreach & Scenes provides many performing opportunities for students involved. Those enrolled stage several junior operas and visit various local schools to perform for children and teach them about opera. This course is also comprised of a robust scenes program. A scenes recital occurs each semester in which students perform scenes and excerpts from various operas, operettas, and musicals.