JAZZ
Jazz ensembles include three big bands, four nonets, numerous combos, each with four to six members.
Conductors: Rodney Whitaker (I); Anthony Stanco (II); Samuel Corey and Ciara Connolly (III)
Three nineteen-piece Jazz Orchestras (The Be-Bop Spartans) are young, swinging college bands playing the repertoire of the great jazz masters as well as a wide range of soul, swing, blues, and gospel. The group’s instrumentation includes saxophone, trombone, trumpet, bass, drums, piano, guitar, and vocalists.
Conductors: Randy Napoleon (1); Xavier Davis (II); Michael Dease (III); Walter Blanding (IV)
These nine-piece jazz ensembles blend the sounds of big band with small-group performance. Nonet I features the most advanced students of MSU’s Jazz Studies Area, providing an opportunity to showcase their improvisational skills. The group’s instrumentation includes bass, drums, piano, guitar, baritone saxophone, tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, trumpet, and trombone.
Directors: Randy Gelispie; David Alvarez; Brandon Rose; Jack Trathen; Joel Perez; Ciara Connolly; Sofia Rabiela; Reuben Stump
The jazz combos in the Jazz Studies program each consist of four to six members forming quartets, quintets, and sextets. Students audition at the beginning of each school year and are placed in a combo, which is coached by one of the combo directors or graduate assistants. Class performance time takes place in Murray Hall each week where combos perform two selections. Combo members are responsible for their own repertoire and arrangements.
The MSU Federal Credit Union Jazz Artist in Residence Program brings renowned jazz musicians to Michigan State University for extended residencies. This program provides students with unique learning experiences through masterclasses, workshops, and performances, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of jazz. Through this endowment, students engage directly with guest artists, enhancing their educational journey and enriching the local and regional musical community.
Upcoming Jazz Events
The MSU Jazz Orchestras open the season with an evening of timeless swing and big band classics—audience dancing encouraged!
The MSU Jazz Orchestras welcome acclaimed guitarist Ed Cherry, whose expressive artistry has shaped decades of modern jazz.
The Jazz Nonets welcome acclaimed Detroit drummer Leonard Clyde King Jr. for an evening celebrating the city’s rich jazz tradition.
The MSU Jazz Orchestras welcome acclaimed trombonist Andrew Martin for an afternoon of exceptional big band jazz.
Featuring Grammy Award–winning and MSU jazz vocalist Carmen Bradford, the Concert Orchestra presents American Portraits, a program celebrating the breadth of American musical expression.