Jazz Ensembles

The Jazz Ensembles consist of four high-energy groups: Big Band, Jazz Combos, Jazz Workshop and Vocal Jazz.

There are over 400 members on the BU Bands’ rosters from more than 20 states and representing almost every college on BU’s campus. All of the groups provide fun and exciting ways for the non-music major to still participate in the band experience while pursuing degrees in other disciplines.

The Big Band is BU’s premier jazz ensemble and performs regularly at concerts, university functions, and festivals. The Band rehearses on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 8:30-10:00 PM. Auditions for the Big Band are held during the first week of classes. All information regarding auditions for any of our ensembles is available on the BU Bands website on July 1.

Jazz Combos are set for those who wish to perform in a smaller setting. Many of our top combos perform at high level functions on campus as well as gigs around the Boston are. All combos have a faculty member as their coach and combos are set during the Jazz Auditions which take place during the first week of classes.

Jazz Workshop provides and introduction to jazz performance that focuses on improvisation, soloing techniques, rhythm, and foundations of the jazz idiom. The workshop concludes with a concert performance each semester.

Academics are the top priority for every member of the BU Band program. All of the ensembles were created with the non-music major’s schedule and vigorous academics commitments in mind. It is not only possible to succeed academically while participating in the BU Band program, but many of our members excel academically during the busier band seasons.