Jazz Studies at Mesa State College

Ensembles

Students enjoy playing a variety of styles during numerous performances throughout the year in the MSC Jazz Ensemble. From big-band era swing to bop to contemporary styles, including rock/funk, ECM, Cuban, and Brazilian music, the group strives to present stimulating and diverse programs for its audiences. The ensemble generally performs two on-campus concerts per semester in addition to several outreach performances throughout the year at regional high schools, community venues, and regional jazz festivals. Placement in the ensemble is by audition only at the beginning of each academic year, and is open to both music majors and non-majors.

In MSC Jazz Combos, students have the opportunity to work on all facets of jazz music-making. Students frequently perform at venues both on and off campus. Combo members also compose and arrange their own music, much of which is performed in concert. Students receive instruction in jazz composition and small-group arranging, and they have the opportunity to rehearse and modify their pieces in a workshop setting. Music majors as well as non-majors are welcome to participate in combos with permission of the instructor.