Jazz Ensembles

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

There are over 400 members on the BU Bands’ rosters from more than 20 states and foreign countries representing almost every college on BU’s campus. All of the groups provide fun and exciting ways for both music majors and non-music majors to perform jazz music at BU.

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 intended 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 an 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 Jazz program. Both music majors and non-music majors perform in these ensembles. Even though music majors perform in these groups, all of the ensembles were created to accommodate busy schedules and vigorous academic commitments in mind. It is not only possible to succeed academically while participating in the BU Jazz program, but many of our members excel academically even during the busiest band season.