Jazz Ensembles

Doc Severinsen performing

"The jazz program at the University of Evansville offers students of any major a wide variety of experiences in performance and opportunities to hear and work with well-known guest jazz artists. The program features two big bands (Jazz Band and Chamber Jazz) and the option of a Jazz Studies Certificate. Join us to learn more about this truly American music."

— Dr. Timothy Zifer, Director of Jazz

Jazz Band and Chamber Jazz

The University of Evansville jazz performance experience features two big bands, Jazz Band and Chamber Jazz. Their ever-popular concerts for audiences both on and off campus include jazz, swing, be-bop, fusion, and neoclassical jazz.

The UE Jazz Ensembles have had the pleasure of hosting many well known jazz artists over the years. Allen Vizzutti, Doc Severinsen, The New York Voices, Diane Schuur, and Max Weinberg are just some of the most-recent artists featured. In addition to featuring guest performers, the jazz ensembles host an annual Jazz Band Invitational for middle school, high school, and college jazz bands from across the tri-state area. Touring is also part of the jazz program at UE. The UE Jazz Band has toured extensively to high schools as well as jazz festivals. The UE Jazz Band has also had the pleasure of performing and competing at the prestigious Elmhurst College Jazz Festival, having received recognition awards for soloists and student compositions.

Jazz Studies Certificate

Another option open to all students is the opportunity to complete a Jazz Studies Certificate with courses in jazz performance, arranging, improvisation, history and theory.

Evansville Jazz Society

The Evansville Jazz Society brings numerous well-known jazz artists to the Evansville community through its annual Jazz Concert Series. Recent appearances include Pat Harbison, Jamey Aebersold, Dick Sisto Quintet, and the Houston Person Quartet. Additionally, the Society offers scholarships to University of Evansville students to continue their studies at intensive jazz programs during the summer months.