Small Jazz Ensembles

David Zoffer, Jazz Department Chair
Rick McLaughlin, Assistant Jazz Chair

These ensembles are designed for instrumentalists and vocalists desiring a small ensemble experience with emphasis on the exploration of various jazz, Third Stream, popular, and fusion styles. Emphasis will be placed on the application of jazz theory concepts through performance. Student arrangements and compositions are also included as material for ensembles.

Jazz ensembles may include any instrument and/or voice at all levels. These small ensembles typically include 3 - 6 players; all the players in the ensemble will have the opportunity to be featured as soloists.

Groups will receive 28 60-minute coaching sessions and the opportunity to perform in a recital at the end of each semester. Jazz auditions take place in September.

Sign up for a Jazz Placement Audition!

01. Mike Tucker gives a private saxophone lesson.
02. A young jazz composer/pianist hears his music come to life.
03. Rick McLaughlin teaches the intricacies of improvisation to a young sax player.
04. Jamie Stewardson jams with a student during a private lesson.
05. Nick Grondin joins in on guitar as his Prep ensemble rehearses.