Jazz

The CSU Jazz performance ensembles include two large jazz ensembles and two smaller jazz combos. Both the ensembles and combos expose students to classic and contemporary jazz literature and styles with an emphasis on quality performance and education. All jazz performance groups at CSU are open to students of all majors, however auditions are required. Jazz guest artists at CSU have included David Baker, Tony Malaby, Tom Rainey, Greg Gisbert, Dave Phillips and Freedance and Rich Perry.

Events

News

Jazz professor Wil Swindler featured at Jazz Education Network Conference

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Wil Swindler's Elevenet

The head of CSU Jazz Studies, Wil Swindler, and his band, The Elevenet were featured performers at the 2023 Jazz Education Network Conference. The fourteenth annual conference was held on Jan. 4-7 in Orlando, Florida. According to the organization’s website, the conference offers a variety of events, including sessions and clinics to fit every attendee’s […]

Saxophone Professor Peter Sommer is making music!

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Peter Sopmmer playing saxophone

CSU Music Professor, Peter Sommer, has had a prolific season of music-making. Here are recent activities by the head of CSU’s Woodwind Area: Soulful Songs and Spirits, original music and arrangements for jazz sextet was released in June by the Peter Sommer Septet. According to the KUVO Jazz calendar, the release was inspired by his […]

The Rocky Mountain Saxophone Summit

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2018 Rocky Mountain Saxophone Summit promotional poster

By Viola Cai, Publicity Intern “It is almost like a saxophone party!” The Rocky Mountain Saxophone Summit at the University Center for the Arts invites saxophonists of all ages and levels to join their party. There will be masterclasses during daytime and a capstone recital in the evening. Tim Glesmann from Sax Alley will be […]

Ensembles

Jazz Ensembles

Students in the CSU Jazz Ensembles are exposed to exciting arrangements, both classic and contemporary, in preparation for performances throughout the year. In addition to its two regular concerts each semester in Griffin Concert Hall, Jazz Ensemble I also performs at jazz festivals and gives clinics at local schools in the region. Auditions are required for jazz ensembles.

Jazz Ensemble I
Rehearses: T/TR 1–2:30 p.m., UCA G 116
Director: Wil Swindler

Jazz Ensemble II
Rehearses: M/W, 12-1:30 p.m., Instrumental Rehearsal Hall (UCA G 116)
Director: Shilo Stroman

Combos

The CSU Jazz Combos give students the opportunity to develop their improvisational skills in a performance environment while also fostering the group dynamics of small ensemble playing. Students are also exposed to standard jazz performance practice and repertoire. The jazz combos often perform at unique events throughout the year like the President's Fall Address, 1870's Dinner, and CSU Football VIP Tailgates. The combo often plays at venues outside of campus as well, and encourages student creativity in performance, arranging, composition, and real-world music business skills. Auditions are required for jazz combos.

Director: Peter Sommer