Jazz Ensemble

The WSU Jazz Ensemble is as diverse in style as those involved in it. Students from all majors come together to play both traditional and contemporary jazz: anything from swing and blues to Latin and funk charts. The elite group of musicians' goal is for impeccable performances of challenging music. Between rehearsals twice a week and weekly sectionals, the students in this ensemble work hard but easily become friends. Not a rehearsal goes by without its fair share of laughs, including those provided by director Dr. Rich MacDonald.
The 17-piece big band performs several times a year, with concerts in the fall and spring semesters as well as dances in the winter. Their fall concerts feature guest artists from the U.S. and abroad that perform and clinic with the band, providing additional educational opportunities for students. The jazz ensemble hosts a high school honor jazz festival every year during the fall semester.