The Jazz Ensembles at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas are comprised of advanced woodwind, brass, keys, and guitar players who share a common interest in performing jazz. Comprised of mostly music majors, this ensemble strives to develop music skills and techniques that are important to the developing musician in jazz. Renowned for our hard-hitting sound with both feet planted in tradition and our eyes fixed on the future, the Jazz Ensemble is an award-winning ensemble and was commissioned as the official Jazz Band for the state of Texas. The ensemble has been a featured ensemble at the Jazz Education National Conference, Texas Music Educators Association Conference, the Essentially Ellington Regional Festival alongside many public concerts and private events. The TSU Jazz Ensembles embody a rich history of many notable performers. Some of the well-known artists that have passed through its ranks include Kirk Whalum, Frank Lacy, Andre Hayward, Barry Lee Hall, Shelly Carrol to name a few. Some of our more recent graduates include rising stars within the industry including Melvin Johnson, Raul Blanco, Eddie Moore, Timothy Lea, and many others!
TSU offers a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance that prepares young professionals for a myriad of career possibilities. Whether it is a performer, composer-producer, educator, or curator Jazz at TSU will prepare you to excel in your field. TSU boasts an outstanding faculty of leading music educators and world-class performers that are student-centered and community-driven. In addition, students also have the opportunity to work with guest artists that are internationally renowned.
The TSU Jazz ensembles are award-winning and renowned ensembles that have fostered the talents of many of the top performers of today. Notable alums include; Kirk Whalum, Shelly Carroll, Frank Lacy, Andrae Hayward, Horace Young, and Kyle Turner to name a few. TSU ensembles have always been forward-thinking, geared toward the modern musician, and cultivate a unique environment for musical exploration and self-expression.
The Houston area offers a wide range of on and off-campus performance opportunities. Houston is the cultural center of the Southwest and has a vibrant music scene. Students will be amazed at the depth and diversity of performance opportunities from jazz clubs, to recording studios, cruise ships, theater big bands, international music festivals, and beyond. Students not only will gain an invaluable education, but also create a network of active professionals that will help propel their career forward.
Jazz majors are also able to utilize the brand new state-of-the-art recording studio on campus. Partnered with renowned jazz radio station KTSU, these outlets provide students with rich array of resources right here on campus. The rigorous academic curriculum at TSU combined with countless opportunities for collaboration will prepare the student for musicianship, professionalism, entrepreneurship, and industry leadership.
