JAZZ ENSEMBLES and JAZZ COMBOS
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The contemporary instrumental ensembles are devoted to the study of jazz and popular
styles, offering exciting opportunities for both vocalists and instrumentalists! (Vocalists
check out the Contemporary Choirs page!) Attention is given to developing skills and stylistic understandings to prepare
students for performance opportunities in jazz and commercial settings.
We offer the following courses for Contemporary Instrumental Performance:
MUSC-1261-001: Jazz EnsembleJazz Ensemble is a performance-oriented big band that challenges instrumentalists
with professional level arrangements. Students in Jazz Ensemble will explore a wide
variety of musical genres while furthering their development of improvisational and
stylistic skills. This group performs at multiple events and concerts throughout the
year and has the opportunity to work with a number of guest artists and clinicians.
Designed for the more advanced player, Jazz Ensemble is open to all university students
by audition and approval of the director. Recommendations by applied instructors are
also considered. Previous or current participation in MUSC 1262 and/or MUSC 3560 is
highly suggested.
For more information regarding the ETSU Jazz Ensemble, contact Martin Walters at waltermb@etsu.edu
Click here for the Jazz Ensemble audition materials.
MUSC-1262: Performance Small Group - Commercial Ensemble/Event Band The ETSU Event Band, under the direction of Garrett Thomas, was formed in the fall of 2024. The ensemble focuses on providing students with an experience where they can explore repertoire commonly known as “Dance Hits” and prepares them for careers performing in cruise ship bands, wedding bands, and party bands. The band frequently performs at local venues and music festivals in the TriCities area.
The instrumentation fluctuates from year to year but usually consists of multiple vocalists, rhythm section players, and an occasional horn section. Members of the band are selected through an audition process that takes place at the beginning of the academic year. The group is open to any university student who is interested, but preference is given to Commercial Music majors.
For more information regarding the Commercial Ensemble, contact Garrett Thomas at thomasgm@etsu.edu
MUSC-1262: Performance Small Group - Jazz Instrumental Small Groups Jazz small groups are workshops for instrumentalists to build their skills in jazz
improvisation, small group arranging, and the performance practices common in jazz
and improvised music. These groups will explore standard jazz repertoire as well as
original student compositions and arrangements. Audition is required for any interested
students; preference will be given to Contemporary Music majors and Jazz Studies
minors.
For more information regarding the Jazz Small Groups, contact Brian Rodesch at rodesch@etsu.edu
***An audition is required to be placed into the ETSU Contemporary Small Groups, but
participation is open to all university students!***