The University Jazz Ensemble (20 members) performs classic big band repertoire as well as works by contemporary composers and arrangers. Past concerts have featured the music of Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, Charles Mingus, Neal Hefti, Frank Foster, Oliver Nelson, Frank Zappa, Bob Brookmeyer, Chico O'Farrill, Maria Schneider, and many others. In addition, the ensemble frequently works with inspiring guest artists in master classes, workshops, and collaborative performances. The group often tours in the spring.
University Jazz Ensemble rehearses Tuesday and Thursday 4:25-5:40 pm.
UVM's small jazz groups (6-9 members) provide a setting where students can improve their improvisational skills and learn jazz and Latin repertoire. Expert coaches teach the role of each instrument and encourage players to listen and interact. Groups meet once a week.
The jazz combos consist of three or four rhythm section players (piano, bass, drums, and guitar) and three or four horns (sax, trumpet, trombone, flute, etc.). The groups typically play written arrangements, head charts, and lead sheets as well as original arrangements and compositions that the students may contribute. In performances, students count off and announce tunes, make cues, and, in general, lead their own groups. In the Afro-Latin group students become familiar with basic rhythm patterns, hand percussion, and may sing simple coros in addition to learning standard Latin jazz and other repertoire.
Co-enrollment in the University Jazz Ensemble is required of participants in jazz combos unless no positions on their instruments are available in that group.
- Nonet rehearses Monday 7:30-9:00 pm
- Latin Jazz Ensemble rehearses Monday 5:15-7:15 pm
- Chromaticats Jazz Combo rehearses Tuesday 4:25-6:00 pm
- Guitar Ensemble rehearses Thursday 4:25-6:00 pm
- Post-Bop rehearses Wednesday 6:00-7:30 pm
The Jazz Vocal Ensemble (15-20 members) performs both a cappella and with a rhythm section; rehearses Monday and Wednesday 5:00-6:00 pm.
Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo Auditions
Jazz Vocal Ensemble Auditions
Returning members: You need not audition, but please make sure you register for the course so we know who is returning.
Prospective members: Audition requirements are as follows: One prepared piece, preferably jazz, performed either a cappella or if you provide sheet music/chart, accompanied by one of the directors. If you do not have written music for your audition piece, make sure you know your key or starting note for the piece. The audition will also include sight reading. (The ability to read music is preferred, but not required.)
Concerts and Performances
Each group plays at least one concert every semester. One of the jazz combos performs after the annual homecoming celebration in the fall, and Jazz Ensemble often tours in the spring.
Contact the Directors
- Jazz Ensemble (Big Band) and Latin Jazz Ensemble
Alex Stewart, Alexander.Stewart@uvm.edu - Nonet, Latin Jazz, and Post Bop
Ray Vega, Raymond.Vega@uvm.edu - Jazz Guitar Ensemble
Joe Capps, Joseph.Capps@uvm.edu - Chromaticats Jazz Combo
Tom Cleary, Thomas.Cleary@uvm.edu - Jazz Vocal Ensemble
Amber deLaurentis, Amber.deLaurentis@uvm.edu
Listen to the Jazz Combos
Latin Jazz Ensemble: "La Tercera" by Ray Vega