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
Last fall, Assistant Professor of Music History K. Dawn Grapes had her annotated bibliography/research guide to “John Dowland” recently published online by Oxford University Press in Oxford Bibliographies. In her introduction, Dr. Grapes describes Dowland (b. 1563–d. 1623) as an internationally known English musician of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. As the most […]
The Virtuoso Series at Colorado State University continues with a dynamic concert by faculty Peter Sommer and his quartet featuring Eric Gunnison, piano; Kent McLagan, bass; and Marc Dalio, drums. The concert will feature music from Sommer’s most recent release on Dazzle Recordings, Narrando Historias, as well as new compositions and improvisations with elements of […]
The Colorado State University Jazz Ensembles are joined by one of the greatest baritone saxophone musicians of our time, Gary Smulyan, for a night of bebop and swing on Wednesday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St. Tickets are $7 […]
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.