Whether you prefer playing in a large jazz ensemble or a small combo, the greatest American art form is alive and well at University of the Pacific. You will have a chance to explore jazz through a variety of academic and performance opportunities with our faculty and nationally renowned guest artists. Participation in the jazz ensembles is open to all Pacific students by audition.
Pacific Jazz Ensemble
A big band in the tradition of Duke Ellington and Count Basie, the ensemble performs the classics and embraces the music of contemporary composers & arrangers. They have an impressive list of credentials having been invited several times to play at the Next Generation Jazz Festival in Monterey, CA.
Jazz Combos
Members are grouped according to ability so that everyone has a chance to grow together and learn both the fundamentals and intricacies of jazz improvisation. Many students perform in local venues sharpening their skills and gaining valuable real-life experience.
Pacific Big Band performs George Stone's “Then and Now”
Performance Opportunities
Pacific Jazz Collective performs an original composition "Winter Dance" by Zach Bushey '22 (BM, Jazz Studies, saxophone). Students in jazz combos have many opportunities to play to live audiences in local venues or in the Conservatory's off-campus Take 5 Jazz Club.
For more information
Patrick Langham
Program Director of Jazz Studies
209.946.3222
