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 Ensembles Concert

| | Comments Off on Jazz Ensembles Concert
Ingrid Jensen Promotional Photo

Join the Colorado State University Jazz Ensembles on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:30 p.m. for an evening of modern, big band music. The performance will be held in the Griffin Concert Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St.  Under director Peter Sommer, CSU Jazz Ensemble I is joined by […]

CSU Music Educators National Conference Student Organization wins national award

| | Comments Off on CSU Music Educators National Conference Student Organization wins national award
Brass Section Pictured

The Department of Music, Theatre and Dance announces that Colorado State University’s Collegiate Music Educators National Conference (MENC) Student Organization has received the National 2011 Chapter of Excellence Award for Recruitment given by the MENC National Association for Music Education. The CSU Collegiate MENC Chapter held a Swing Dance Social in November 2010 featuring 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.

Director: Peter Sommer