Jazz Ensembles

Jazz Orchestra

The UCI Jazz Orchestra (MUS 178, 2 units) is dedicated to performing a wide range of big band repertoire, from classic works of the early and mid-20th century to more contemporary sounds. Emphasis is primarily on developing a cohesive ensemble sound, and learning to understand and interpret diverse large ensemble jazz repertoire from different eras. The orchestra is comprised of both music majors and other UCI students, and requires a commitment to a weekly 3-hour rehearsal on Wednesday evenings, several hours per week of individual practice and other work outside of class, and participation in a quarterly concert.

Auditions are required and are open to all UCI students. Auditions take place in fall at the start of each academic year, with schedule details announced on this page in late summer. For winter and spring quarters, auditions are offered on an individual basis depending on instrumentation needs, and for those quarters, students may request an audition by emailing Professor Michael Dessen, Jazz Program Coordinator, by the end of week 9 in the quarter prior.

 

Jazz Small Groups (Combos)

The UCI Jazz Small Groups (MUS 176 and MUS 182, 2 units) are the jazz combos, typically comprised of four to eight members. Taught by a world-renowned jazz faculty, several jazz combo classes are offered every quarter. Each instructor focuses on different repertoire and approaches, offering students who take the combo courses over time the opportunity to gain diverse perspectives on jazz improvisation. Combo classes require a commitment to a weekly 2-hour rehearsal, several hours per week of practice and other work outside of class, and participation in a quarterly concert.

Auditions are required and are open to all UCI students. Auditions take place quarterly at the first class meeting for each class; check the Schedule of Classes (SOC) for the day, time, and location. Students interested in auditioning must attend the first class meeting in the quarter, with their instrument. Each combo instructor handles their own class auditions process; for questions about auditions, please email the instructor listed on the SOC with questions about their audition process. Students may choose to audition for multiple combos; enrollments will be finalized across all three classes and announced by the start of week 2 each quarter, and non-majors admitted to a combo will be enrolled in the class then. For further questions, please contact Professor Michael Dessen, Jazz Program Coordinator.

 

Photo by Paul R. Kennedy