Jazz Ensembles
Note for Summer 2024:
We’ll be holding Info Sessions on Zoom for students to learn more about our Jazz groups, meet faculty and students, and have your questions answered.
- Tuesday, June 18 from 10:00-10:30 AM Eastern
- Thursday, July 18 from 12:00-12:30 PM Eastern
- Tuesday, August 13 from 8:00-8:30 PM Eastern
To receive the Zoom link, simply RSVP here. Thank you!
Overview
Boston University Jazz Ensembles consist of the BU Big Band (“Jazz Ensemble”), multiple Jazz Combos, and Jazz Workshop. These ensembles are open to students of all majors, including graduate students. The rehearsal and performance schedules fit easily into the busy academic schedules of BU students, making participation an achievable and enjoyable experience for all. Each semester, BU Jazz Ensembles perform at several concerts, university functions, and the semi-annual “Jazz Fest” held on the last evening of classes each semester. A zero-credit version of these ensembles is available to students who are at/over their credit limit.
Auditions for placement and seating in Big Band (“Jazz Ensemble”) and Jazz Combos can be found on the Jazz Ensembles Auditions page. There are no auditions required for Jazz Workshop.
Membership in Big Band (“Jazz Ensemble”) and/or Jazz Combos is encouraged for the full academic year unless a student chooses to study abroad in the spring. Open positions in the spring will be filled as needed (email bands@bu.edu if you missed auditions in September and hope to join in the spring semester).
Big Band
Under the direction of Aaron Goldberg, the BU Big Band performs a variety of jazz including new contemporary charts, old-school standards, big band favorites, and rare cuts from across the decades. Improvisation in Big Band is optional, not required. Musicians often have the opportunity to work with guest artists and clinicians. The Big Band uses standard instrumentation: 4-5 trumpets, 4-5 trombones, 5 saxes, and a rhythm section (guitar, vibes, piano, bass, optional aux. percussion, and drum set). Performances consist of several concerts per semester including BU Jazz Fest and occasional high-level university functions around campus.
2022-2023 Rehearsal Schedule:
CFA MU 094/194 A1 – M&W – BAB148 – 6:30 – 8 pm
The zero-credit option is only available to students at/over their credit limit.
Rehearsal Location: Band Room – 300W Babcock St., at the corner of Ashford St. in West Campus (entrance is 100-feet down the Ashford St. side of the building)
Jazz Combos
Under the direction of Warren Levenson, the Jazz Combos are intended for those who wish to perform in a smaller setting. Our top combos are often asked to perform at high-level functions on campus. Multiple Jazz Combos are created according to student talent and interest.
2023-2024 Jazz Combo Rehearsals:
CFA MU 095/195 A1 – Friday – BAB148 – 4:30 – 6:15 pm
CFA MU 095/195 B1 – Friday – BAB148 – 6:30 – 8:15 pm
CFA MU 095/195 C1 – Monday – BAB148 – 8:15 – 10:00 pm
The zero-credit option is only available to students at/over their credit limit.
Rehearsal Location: Band Room – 300W Babcock St., at the corner of Ashford St. in West Campus (entrance is 100-feet down the Ashford St. side of the building)
Jazz Workshop
Under the direction of Warren Levenson, Jazz Workshop is an ensemble for students of all abilities to learn about Jazz. The ensemble is open to all instruments and vocalists. Students learn the basics of Jazz language and style, improvisation, ear training, and composition. The ensemble typically performs at least once per semester. Auditions are not required to join Jazz Workshop – simply complete the Join Form and then register on Student Link/MyBU Student.
2023-2024 Schedule:
CFA MU 096/196 A1 – M&W – CFA165 – 6:30 – 8 pm
The zero-credit option is only available to students at/over their credit limit.
Rehearsal Location: College of Fine Arts – 855 Commonwealth Ave., room 165.