Jazz Artist in Residence program announces dazzling mix of stars.

    A dynamic mix of star-powered musicians with a mastery of traditional, Latin and contemporary styles of jazz will energize Michigan from October through March, marking the fifth year of the MSUFCU Jazz Artist in Residence program coordinated by the MSU College of Music.

    Launched in 2013, the College's innovative residency program attracts high-level talent to teach, mentor and perform at both the university and K-12 schools and academies across the state. Made possible by a $1 million endowment from the MSU Federal Credit union, the program has positioned MSU as a model for jazz studies programs nationwide. The 2017-18 program features an astonishing lineup of working musicians, composers and educators who draw on a multitude of jazz traditions and styles, and includes Michael Philip Mossman, Harvey Mason, Helen Sung and Steve Wilson. See dates and media release.


    “The MSU Federal Credit Union's generosity and vision has made it possible for MSU to continue to become a center of excellence for jazz education, innovation and study,” says Director of Jazz Studies Rodney Whitaker. “Thanks to their leadership and their support, we can continue to attract the talent and resources to ensure the great artistic treasure of American Jazz will be experienced by current and future generations.”

    Jazz trumpeter Michael Philip Mossman will be the first of four scheduled artists for residencies this academic year, and will be with MSU Jazz Studies from Oct. 9-15. The exceptional trumpeter has toured with a virtual who's who of the music industry, and has recorded with his own bands in traditional and Latin-based styles. While at MSU, Mossman will mentor College of Music students and perform for the public. Mossman performs with MSU Jazz Orchestras I, II and III on Oct. 13, 8 p.m., at Fairchild Theatre, in the MSU Auditorium. He will also visit high schools, art academies and community colleges statewide, accompanied by MSU Jazz Orchestra I, the College’s premier student jazz ensemble.

    “Mossman comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and a vast program of tunes he has arranged for the most prominent orchestras in jazz,” says Etienne Charles, MSU associate professor of jazz trumpet. “We're very excited to bring such an accomplished, versatile talent to our campus and the state.”

    Following Mossman, Drummer Harvey Mason, Pianist Helen Sung and Saxophonist Steve Wilson will electrify the winter and spring through three separate, weeklong residencies. The inspiring lineup provides students and the community a rare opportunity to listen to and learn from high-energy, well-known musicians and virtuosos who are equally accomplished as educators, composers and arrangers shaping the world of jazz.

    The MSUFCU Jazz Artist in Residence program represents the largest-ever investment in the College’s curriculum and provides one-on-one instruction, collaboration and performance opportunities with some of the world’s best jazz musicians. The impressive lineups over the years include:

    • Year One 2013-14: Saxophonist Antonio Hart, Trumpeter Jon Faddis and Drummer Jeff Hamilton
    • Year Two 2014-15: Bassist Christian McBride, Trombonist Robin Eubanks, Guitarist Peter Bernstein, and Michigan icons Saxophonist Vincent Bowens and Drummer Tim Froncek
    • Year Three 2015-16: Trumpeter Brian Lynch, Drummer Jimmy Cobb, Pianist Kenny Barron and Saxophonist Tim Warfield, Jr.
    • Year Four 2016-17: Guitarist Russell Malone, Bassist Rufus Reid, Clarinetist-Saxophonist Anat Cohen and Trombonist Conrad Herwig

    The combined weeklong residencies of the 16 artists included workshops, concerts, events and outreach to more than 27,332 students and adults in communities across Michigan.

    “The MSU Federal Credit Union believes in giving back to the community, and one way we do that is through the support of arts, culture and education,” says April Clobes, president and CEO of the MSUFCU. “This gift to the College of Music helps strengthen Mid-Michigan's quality of life by providing exceptional opportunities to experience the beauty and excitement of jazz—one of America's greatest art forms.”

    Download the Press Release (PDF)

    2017/18 MSU Federal Credit Union Jazz Artist in Residence Program

    October 9–15, 2017
    Michael Philip Mossman    , jazz trumpet  
    Michael Philip Mossman has been active on both the jazz and Latin jazz scenes with a virtual who’s who of the music industry since he was 17.  

    December 4-10, 2017
    Harvey Mason,     jazz drums
    Harvey Mason has been a busy studio musician, jazz drummer, record producer, and member of the band Fourplay throughout his career. 

    February 5-11, 2018
    Helen Sung, jazz pianoPianist and composer Helen Sung hails from Houston, Texas, where she attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. 
     

    March 19-25, 2018 
    Steve Wilson    , jazz saxophone
    Saxophonist Steve Wilson has been praised alongside some of the greatest names in jazz, and has received critical acclaim as a bandleader.