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
The Jazz Combos are back at CSU, presenting a special concert featuring the nostalgic sounds of 1960s Blue Note Records jazz Wednesday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St. This concert features music from 1960s Blue Note recording label artists […]
CSU Jazz Ensembles kick off their spring semester with a special combined concert with Rocky Mountain High School on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St. Jazz Ensembles I and II under the direction of Peter Sommer and Wil […]
The CSU Jazz Ensembles kick off the fall jazz season at the University Center for the Arts on Wednesday, October 1 at 7:30 p.m. with a concert entitled ‘The Music of Miles Davis’ in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St. Directed by Wil Swindler, 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: T/TH, 5:15-6:45 p.m. (Boomer A)
Director: Darren Kramer
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.
Jazz Combo
Rehearses: M/W/F 1-1:50 p.m.
Director: Gabriel Satiago
Jazz Combo
Rehearses: M/W 4-4:50 p.m.
Director: Peter Sommer
Jazz Combo
Rehearses: M/F 3-3:50 p.m.
Jazz Combo
Rehearses: T/TH 8-8:50 p.m.