Jazz Studies

About the Jazz Ensemble

The Jazz Ensemble at UW–Eau Claire is a powerhouse in the music world, earning the prestigious Down Beat “Best College Big Band” award seven times and receiving Grammy nominations on two occasions. With 18 critically acclaimed CD releases, the ensemble has built a legacy of excellence. The music department's curriculum strikes a perfect balance between developing strong classical foundations and offering an immersive jazz studies experience. Serving over 100 dedicated students, the program fosters a vibrant, dynamic environment where aspiring musicians can hone their craft and pursue professional careers in music.

Student Opportunities

Performances

The Jazz Studies Area at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is dedicated to providing aspiring jazz musicians and educators with a top-tier education, equipping them for successful careers as professional jazz artists or educators. This is achieved through participation in both small and large instrumental and vocal jazz ensembles, studying jazz improvisation and arranging, learning recording techniques and sound engineering, exploring jazz styles and interpretation, attending masterclasses and concerts, and performing with internationally acclaimed jazz artists.

Below is an abbreviated list of headlining performances UW-Eau Claire Jazz Studies ensembles have previously performed in:

• New York Brass Conference (Jazz Ensemble I)
• International Midwest Band Director's Conference (Jazz Ensemble I)
• MENC National Conference (Jazz Ensemble I)
• Illinois State Music Educators Conference (Jazz Ensemble I)
• Minnesota State Music Conference (Jazz Ensemble I)

Beyond its focus on excellence in jazz performance and education, the Jazz Studies Area recognizes the need to prepare students for the evolving music industry and the increasing demand for musicians to be proactive in their careers and business ventures. The program offers students opportunities to produce their own albums, seek employment during academic breaks, perform regularly in the Twin Cities, and host open jams and concerts within the community. The Jazz Studies program is committed to ensuring students graduate with a strong sense of confidence and invaluable real-world experience, enabling them to approach their careers wit both expertise and hands-on knowledge to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.

Summer Employment

It is strongly recommended that Jazz Studies Area students seek employment involving training in their future profession during the school year and summer. Because of its reputation, UW-Eau Claire Jazz Studies students have been extremely successful in attaining assistantships for post graduate work, summer jobs in professional performing and educational settings.

The following is an abbreviated list of summer positions held by students in the past while currently enrolled in UWEC:

• National Touring Broadway Shows
• International Cruise Ship Contracts
• DisneyLand All-American College Band
• DisneyWorld All-American Orchestra
• Broadway shows at the Orpheum, Ordway, Lyric Arts and Artistry theatre in the Twin Cities.
• Kids from Wisconsin
• ValleyFair Amusement Park stage band

Auditions and Rehearsals

Ensemble Auditions

Jazz ensemble auditions take place on the second and third day of classes every semester. Audition materials can be obtained any time within the weeks leading up to a semester's audition dates by contacting Mr. Robert Baca.

Big Band Rehearsal Schedules

• Jazz Ensemble I, TR, 12:30-1:45 p.m. and F, 1-1:50 p.m.
• Jazz Ensemble II, MW, 12-12:50 p.m.
• Jazz Ensemble III, MW, 1-1:50 p.m.
• Jazz Ensemble IV, MW, 11-11:50 a.m.

UW-Eau Claire Jazz Studies History

The Jazz Studies Area at UW-Eau Claire began in 1965 under the direction of Joseph Casey, but it was truly solidified under Dominic Spera (1968-1977) and Ron Keezer. Their leadershi led to the introduction of formal coursework, and by the mid-1970s, several additional jazz ensembles were incorporated into the curriculum. In 1985, Dan Newman formed a Vocal Jazz group, further expanding the program. Before Robert Baca took over in 1986, James Olcott and Henry Mautner served as directors of jazz studies. Driven by student interest, the Jazz Studies Area has continued to grow from 1986 to the present, now featuring five large jazz ensembles and an extensive combo program. Today, the program i thriving, with over 110 students enrolled in jazz-related courses each school year, reflecting th sustained student interest and engagement in the program.