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.

Sample the Butler Jazz Ensemble in concert:

Quicktime video: Smaller file (7.3 megabytes) | Better quality (23.3 megabytes)

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).