The literature for the ensemble ranges from 1930's swing to contemporary concert jazz repertoire. Membership is open to all students of the university. This course may be repeated for credit. In this course, students explore the language, skills, and materials of jazz music through performing a variety of jazz ensemble repertoire.
Improvisation is encouraged for all jazz ensemble performers.
In the jazz ensemble, students are actively engaged in interpretation of varied repertoire in rehearsal and performance. Ensemble skills are refined, as the group features one to a part. The cultural and gender aspects of musical expression are examined in the jazz idiom as they relate to composers, artists and history. Recordings are referenced frequently. Membership is open to all qualified students of the university.