Concordia Jazz Ensemble
Len Montgomery, director
Concordia University offers exciting opportunities for jazz study and performance. Participation in the jazz ensemble program is open to all Concordia students as well as qualified alumni, high school students, and community members. The jazz ensembles perform a variety of jazz-related repertoire, ranging from standards and classic jazz compositions by Thelonius Monk, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and Duke Ellington to new works by artists such as Aaron Parks, Brian Blade, Vulfpeck, John Patitucci, and many more.
Under the direction of Prof. Len Montgomery, the Concordia Jazz Orchestra performs big band repertoire ranging from classic instrumental and vocal charts to original compositions and arrangements by Concordia students and faculty. The instrumentation of this ensemble is the classic big band format of trumpets, trombones, and saxophones, along with a full rhythm section and vocalists.
Combo-sized ensembles are also available each semester. In addition to performance and repertoire, these small groups include instruction in jazz theory, improvisation, performance, ensemble leadership, and history. Opportunities for non-traditional jazz instrumentation such as strings or other instruments are also available.
The Concordia jazz ensembles rehearse once per week on Monday evenings during the semester, and perform in a final concert at the end of each term. Occasional clinics, workshops, or concert outings are also offered.
For more information, contact Dr. Tom Mueller at [email protected] or (949) 214-3651.