Butler Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo
Membership in the Butler Jazz Ensemble is by audition only. Past
guest artists include Bobby McFerrin and David Baker. The ensemble
has performed at the Elmhurst Jazz Festival. At the 2004 festival
it was named one of three outstanding ensembles and had four
members designated as outstanding soloists. The band also recently
completed a week-long tour in St. Petersburg, Russia.
The Jazz Ensemble explores a wide range of music-from Fletcher
Henderson and Duke Ellington (Nutcracker Suite) to contemporary
composers like Maria Schneider and Gorden Goodwin. Student
compositions are always featured.
Membership in the Butler Jazz Combo is by audition.
The combo explores the art of small group playing, specifically
improvisation. Works for some of the best writers such as Slide
Hampton, Cedar Walton, Benny Golson and Mulgrew Miller are
explored. The combo maintains an active performing schedule.
The
Music at Butler Jukebox includes performances
by the Butler Jazz Ensemble as well as other Butler faculty and
ensembles.
Learn more about jazz studies at Butler University (PDF).