Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combos
The DePauw Jazz Ensemble performs on campus and in concert venues throughout Indiana, including combo performances in a club setting. Top artists regularly visit campus to perform with our ensembles and give master classes. All ensembles, classes, and master classes are open to all students on campus regardless of major. Students searching for an environment in which they will learn how to play and gain experiences that will open doors are sure to thrive in the Jazz Studies Program (an area of concentration leading to a minor). Recent guest artists include: Bobby Shew, Jamey Aebersold, David Baker, John Fedchock, Lynne Arriale, Steve Davis, David Berkman, Joe Wilder, Mike Longo, Jim Snidero, Bob Mintzer, and Joe Lovano.
The ensemble provides an opportunity for students to learn and apply techniques and concepts necessary to gain employment as a working musician. The repertoire is carefully selected to include music of historical significance and important jazz standards. It includes an 18-piece big band performing everything from classic tunes of the 30s to modern fusion.
Jazz combos are small, faculty-led ensembles devoted to the study of standard tunes and development of improvisational skills.
Jazz Courses
The Jazz Faculty teach a variety of courses, including Jazz Theory, Jazz Improvisation, Jazz History, Jazz Arranging, Jazz Performance Practice and Applied Jazz lessons.