The jazz program at Temple College is growing at a fast pace and offers students the opportunity to participate in musical groups that are quickly becoming recognized as some of the finest in Central Texas. In addition to performances in Temple, the jazz ensembles are asked to perform at numerous concerts and festivals locally and throughout the state every year. In addition, the groups have had the opportunity to perform with world class musicians such as Dave Weckl, Peter Erskine, Frank Mantooth and Ron Wilkins. The Temple College Jazz Ensemble is a twenty-piece big band comprised of traditional college students. Performing a wide variety of literature from traditional to contemporary, the ensemble gives one the opportunity to work on playing jazz style and challenges the student rhythmically, technically, and harmonically.
Selection is based on audition.
The Temple College Jazz Singers is an eleven piece vocal group that performs with a live rhythm section. Performance in this ensemble is challenging, fun and exciting. The Temple College Jazz Combos have gained popularity over the past few years, giving instrumentalists as well as vocalists the freedom to perform in a small ensemble. Group styles vary widely depending on ensemble members' contributions. There have been one to four combos per semester, depending on student participation and interest.