Jazz Combo is a performance ensemble class which pursues the study and performance of jazz repertoire. Students develop interpretation and improvisational skills in jazz compositions and arrangements in a variety of musical styles. In Jazz Combo, we build a camaraderie among those involved and develop as a musical family where everyone has a place to create, be expressive, and have fun. The students learn how to listen intently and blend with each other. They also learn the nuance, phrasing, and style of jazz music and inspire each other in the process of performing. Jazz Combo has performed works by master composers such as:
“Joy Spring” by Clifford Brown
“Windows” by Chick Corea
“Milonga Gris” by Carlos Aguirre
“Winter Sun” by Esperanza Spaulding
“Song for Bilbao” by Pat Metheny
Jazz Combo also encourages students to compose and arrange their own original music. Past student original composition has been:
“Lo Nuestro” by Will Shelton (’23)
“Forgotten Sanctuary” and “Dragons” by Zach Freiheiter (’23)
“00:10” by Damoi Morgan (’25)