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, and at the start of winter or spring quarters when needed. The fall 2024 auditions are listed on the Music Department's Welcome Week Schedule (for Tuesday Sept. 24) and a sign up sheet will be provided there in September. For questions about Jazz Orchestra in 2024-25, please contact the instructor, Professor Jerry Pinter. 

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 (see below) and are open to all UCI students who have prior experience with jazz improvisation. If you do not have any prior experience with jazz improvisation, most likely you will not be admitted to a combo class, but please note: In spring 2025, the Music Dept. plans to offer a new, entry-level course (pending campus approval) called Introduction to Jazz Improvisation, which is designed for both music and non-music majors who have basic theory knowledge and instrumental performance skills, but no prior experience with jazz improvisation. 

All students who have prior jazz improvisation experience and wish to take a jazz combo in Winter 2025 are required to submit this google form (regardless of their major or whether they have taken jazz combos in the past). To receive priority consideration you must submit it by 9am on Monday, Dec. 2nd. Students who were not enrolled in a jazz combo class in Fall 2024 will be required to include on the form a link to a video showing you playing a jazz standard along with a backing track (play the head and improvise at least one chorus). Students who were enrolled in a combo class in fall 2024 are not required to submit a video, but must submit the form to request enrollment in winter. Winter 2025 combo rosters will be announced by the start of winter quarter or sooner. For questions about jazz combos, please contact Professor Michael Dessen, Jazz Program Coordinator.