JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY JAZZ
ENSEMBLE CLASS I
The Jackson State University Jazz Ensemble Class I is one of two
jazz ensemble classes functioning within the Department of Music.
The ensemble is made up of both music and non-majors. This diverse
mix of individuals provides the perfect blend for exciting
contemporary big band sounds. The band's repertoire consists of
jazz music from early big band to jazz fusion.
Many internationally known jazz personalities have been featured
in concert with the Jackson State University Jazz Ensemble Class
I. Among the most noteworthy have been the Count Basie Orchestra,
Clark Terry, Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Heath, Robin Eubanks, James
Williams, Billy Pierce, Slide Hampton, Donald Byrd, Billy Taylor,
David "Fathead" Newman, Jimmy Owens and Bunky Green. The ensemble
also has been featured in concert at professional conferences,
jazz festivals, high schools, colleges/universities and club dates
in Mississippi and surrounding states.
The Jackson State University Jazz Ensemble I has received many
honors and awards. Some of them include the FESTIVAL OUTSTANDING
JAZZ ENSEMBLE AWARD and the FESTIVAL OUTSTANDING JAZZ COMBO AWARD
at the Memphis State University Collegiate Jazz Festival and the
FESTIVAL OUTSTANDING JAZZ ENSEMBLE AWARD at the University of
North Carolina/Charlotte Collegiate Jazz Festival. The ensemble
has also performed at the International Association of Jazz
Educators Conference, New Orleans Heritage and Jazz Festival,
Music Educators National Conference, National Black Music Caucus
Conference, Mississippi Music Association and the Mississippi
Bandmasters Association.
This recording is the fifth release in a distinguished series that
began in 1988. For further information on these superb recordings
and the Jackson State University Jazz Education/Ensemble Program
email Dr. Russell Thomas, Jr. at russell.thomas@jsums.edu.
|
