Directed by Dr. Andy Nevala, The Jazz Ensemble at California State University, Stanislaus is active in performing a wide variety of styles; from the cutting edge contemporary styles of writers such as Maria Schneider , Jim McNeely, Vince Mendoza, and Bob Mintzer to the classics of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Charles Mingus. The Jazz Ensemble performs regular concerts on campus and at top local and regional jazz festivals.

By participating in the jazz ensemble, the student who aspires to become a professional player will perform in a professional atmosphere with many of the same professional responsibilities. In both rehearsal and performance situations, the future aspiring professional jazz musician and/or music educator will be exposed to many different teaching techniques and concepts.

Placement in the jazz ensemble is by audition only.

Audition information for all jazz performing groups at California State University, Stanislaus will be posted one week before the first day of class of each semester. The results from the audition are usually posted the day following the auditions. Sign-up sheets will be posted on the Jazz Studies Bulletin Board (located outside of M-43).

HORN PLAYERS:

The sole basis for placement in bands will be sight-reading. During the sight-reading audition, consideration will be given to time, feel, range, tone, intonation and aggressiveness. Several styles, such as swing, funk, ballad and Latin, may be used in the audition.

RHYTHM SECTION PLAYERS:

Each student will be asked to read a variety of jazz literature as well as just playing time. In addition, each rhythm section player will be asked to solo over changes. Drummers should know all styles of drumming including, but not limited to, up-tempo and medium swing, jazz waltz, funk, shuffle, samba, etc.

Spring 2010 CSU-Stanislaus Jazz Ensemble:

Auditions will be Monday, Feb. 22nd. See the Jazz Area Bulletin Board for more information.

Performance Dates:

Feb 5, Jazz Festival

March 19, Fundraising Concert at Turlock Community Theater

May 7, Faculty Recital, Dr. Andy Nevala

May 13, Jazz Ensemble

May 19, Combos