Ensembles: Jazz

Jazz Orchestra I | Octet I | Vocal Jazz Ensemble | 2007-2008 Concert Schedule

Vocal Jazz Ensembles

The Vocal Jazz Ensemble I and Vocal Jazz Ensemble II at Michigan State University perform a wide variety of jazz, contemporary, and Brazilian music and concentrate on the fundamentals of style combined with the great tradition of choral techniques. Above all, swinging and improvisation are at the heart of the MSU Vocal Jazz experience.   

The ensembles feature arrangements of the Hi-Lo’s, Lambert, Hendricks and Ross, the Singers Unlimited, as well as charts written by contemporary arrangers such as Jennifer Barnes, Jeremy Fox, Kerry Marsh, Darmon Meader, and Michele Weir.

The Vocal Jazz Ensemble I requires a yearlong commitment and rehearses Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.-12:20 pm., plus weekly sectionals. The group has from eight to 12 voices with accompanying rhythm section and performs two to three times each semester, on and off campus. 

In the two years since its inception, The Vocal Jazz Ensemble has performed with jazz greats Jon Hendricks and Kevin Mahogany and has also been featured on WKAR Radio.

Sunny Wilkinson, director

Vocal Jazz Ensemble Auditions:

Auditions for MSU’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble are open to any student enrolled in classes at Michigan State University and are held the Friday and Saturday prior to the first week of school Fall Semester. Music majors and non-majors are encouraged to audition. Sign up lists and audition requirements will be posted outside of the Music Practice Building, Room 100. 

Audition Requirements:

- Sing two pieces of contrasting nature (preferably jazz standards). Sing pieces that best show your ability.  (They may be jazz, pop, classical, etc.)

- Sight-read several lines of music.

- Improvise over the blues or a tune of your choice. (This is not mandatory)

Students may bring their own accompaniment, pianist, CD, or sing a cappella. Make sure to sign up for an audition time in advance.

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