Jazz

The UCF Music Department begins its third year offering of our Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies, as well as our graduate degree offering of an M.A. in Music. The addition of several new ensembles this year including the UCF Jazz Ensemble II under the direction of Per Danielsson, is a reflection of growth within UCF music. Jazz Ensemble II is designed to meet the needs of our jazz majors as well as music education majors interested in gaining experience in jazz performance techniques and jazz pedagogy.

Our jazz curriculum integrates performance with dissemination of knowledge. For example, students in the Jazz Workshop ensembles perform and develop a repertoire and improvisational techniques on Tuesdays and Thursdays while the UCF Jazz Ensemble I and II meets Mondays and Wednesdays. The scheduling of our curriculum gives students a great deal of rehearsal and performance time, and input from our professors. Numerous graduate students are in these groups, elevating the playing level and ensemble experience. Our Jazz theory course meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Of great interest is the annual UCF-Orlando Jazz Festival scheduled for March 19 & 20, 2010. In addition to presenting internationally acclaimed artists, high school jazz bands will take the stage during the day. The UCF All Star High School Jazztet will debut at this year's festival. It is a group of select high school jazz musicians competing for the opportunity to prepare a set, opening up for the headliner of the UCF-Orlando Jazz Festival. These students will work with the UCF Jazz Faculty for a few in-depth rehearsals prior to the event. The focus of this group is improvisation within the small group setting. Students from all over the country are invited to audition. Read more about UCF All Star High School Jazztet.

The first UCF-Orlando Jazz Festival was recorded for NPR's JazzSet hosted by Dee Dee Bridgewater and aired on NPR stations. Last year's jazz festival was broadcast on UCF-TV. Don't miss this exiting evening showcasing great jazz from UCF and Orlando!

There are over 20 other jazz performances throughout the school year. Please check our events calendar for complete concert listings and information.

Our B.M. in Jazz Studies curriculum reflects trends in the industry, as well as the performance and recording opportunities in the Orlando Metro area. Most of our music students perform regularly in town or at the amusement parks. Several of our students perform and record with Sam Rivers RIVBEA orchestra, as well as numerous other groups. Professional performance opportunities in Orlando combined with the comprehensive music curriculum at UCF gives our students a unique learning experience.

We look forward to the years ahead, and hope to see you at an upcoming UCF music event!

Best Wishes,
Jeff Rupert
Selmer Saxophone Artist
Jazz Studies Program Director

The following guest jazz artists have appeared in clinics and concerts.