Jazz Combos

The Mason Jazz Combos are a vital part of the Jazz Studies curriculum. Directed by jazz pianist, Wade Beach, these groups (Mon/Wed 1:30pm – 2:45pm) provide students opportunities in improvisation, composition and arranging as well as small group performing experience. The Mason Jazz Combos perform several times a semester and are open to music and non-music majors, instrumentalists and vocalists of all musical abilities.

Mason Jazz Combo I, Fall 2018 – Photo by Suzette Niess.

CONCERTS – Fall 2019 

  • Monday, NOV 4, 8pm:  Jazz Combos/Steel Pan Ensemble (de Laski 3001, Free and open to the public)
  • Monday, NOV 18, 8pm:  Jazz Combos/Latin American Ensemble (de Laski 3001, Free and open to the public)

DEPARTMENTAL CONCERTS (12:30 – 1:20pm, Harris Theatre, Free and open to the public) 

  • Wednesday, OCT 23:  Jazz Combos 
  • Wednesday, NOV 13:  Jazz Combos 

JAZZ ENSEMBLE AUDITIONS – Fall 2019 (current Mason students) 

  • Instrumental Piece:  There is No Greater Love
  • Instrumentalists:  Play the melody for one chorus and improvise for two choruses. In addition there will be sight-reading on the audition. Please bring your own musical accompaniment/backing track for iPod, Phone or CD player. (Bring adapter if your phone does not have a headphone jack)
  • Vocalists:  Sing one song of your choice (jazz preferred), sight-read a solo musical line and sing a brief tonal melody test. Please bring your own musical accompaniment/backing track for either iPod, Phone or CD player.
  • Visit the SEATING PLACEMENT AUDITIONS page to sign up for an audition. If all audition slots are filled, please e-mail Dr. Darden Purcell.

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