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
Jazz Ensembles Concert: Jazz Modern
Jazz Ensembles Concert: Jazz Recombination
News
By Emily Kaiser, SMTD Publicity Intern Dr. Peter Sommer, and the Colorado State University Jazz Ensembles I and II are gearing up for an exciting experience to collaborate with guest artist, Terell Stafford, the renowned trumpet player from the East Coast region. The student ensemble members will have the opportunity to learn from the artist, […]
By Nicole Towne, UCA Publicity Intern This October, two of the biggest names in jazz will turn 100. Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk, born 10 days apart, will be remembered with a performance by Colorado State University’s jazz ensembles on Sept. 28. “Dizzy and Monk are two of the fathers of modern jazz,” said Peter […]
By Brooke Poulson, UCA Publicity Intern New Orleans is said to be the birthplace of jazz nearly 100 years ago, and if you’ve never had the chance to make it to New Orleans and experience its origins, I highly suggest you attend the Jazz Ensembles Concert on April 13 at the University Center for the […]
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.