Jazz Ensembles

Boston University Jazz Ensembles consist of the BU Big Band, Jazz Workshop, and two Jazz Combos. These ensembles are open to all students of BU regardless of major, and they include graduate and undergraduate 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.

Typically, auditions for placement and seating in all Jazz Ensembles (except Jazz Workshop where no auditions are required) take place during the first week of classes in September. See the Jazz Ensembles Audition page below for info. Membership for the full academic year is encouraged 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).

Click Here for the Jazz Ensembles Audition Page

Big Band

Under the direction of Aaron Goldberg, The BU Big Band performs a variety of jazz including contemporary, old-school, popular, 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 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 will 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.

2022-2023 Rehearsal 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.

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.

2022-2023 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)