KSU’s Jazz Ensemble I opens the fall semester with its first concert of the year, led by Sam Skelton. The program features the energy and drive of big band jazz, highlighting expressive ensemble playing and spirited improvisation. Jazz lives in the space between structure and spontaneity; in the split-second decisions, fearless collaboration and unmistakable energy of artists creating in the moment. At the Bailey School of Music, Jazz Ensemble I brings that spirit to life through performances that honor the rich traditions of jazz while embracing its constant evolution. Drawing from swing, big band, fusion, contemporary jazz and original composition, the ensemble performs music that is rhythmically charged, emotionally expressive and deeply rooted in the art of improvisation. Students develop the versatility and creative fluency demanded of today’s musicians through intensive rehearsal, collaboration and performance alongside internationally recognized guest artists and master teachers. Whether reimagining classic repertoire or exploring new musical terrain, Jazz Ensemble I creates concerts that pulse with precision and personality. Each performance becomes a conversation -- between musicians, between generations of influence and between the audience and the music unfolding in real time.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble I opens the fall semester with its first concert of the year, led by Sam Skelton. The program features the energy and drive of big band jazz.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble II and Jazz Ensemble III share the stage for an evening of big band jazz featuring energetic ensemble playing and student-driven musicianship. Led by Wes Funderburk and Rob Opitz, respectively, these ensembles explore a range of jazz styles that highlight both group cohesion and individual expression.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble II and Jazz Ensemble III share the stage for an evening of big band jazz featuring energetic ensemble playing and student-driven musicianship.

KSU's premier jazz faculty ensemble delivers an evening of inventive improvisation, energetic rhythms, and outstanding performances from some of the region's finest jazz artists.

KSU's premier jazz faculty ensemble delivers an evening of inventive improvisation, energetic rhythms, and outstanding performances from some of the region's finest jazz artists.

The Jazz Combos take the stage for a second night this week in a concert that spotlights creativity, collaboration, and the spontaneity of small‑ensemble jazz. With an emphasis on individual voices and group interplay, this performance offers a closer look at jazz in its most conversational form.

The Jazz Combos take the stage for a second night this week in a concert that spotlights creativity, collaboration, and the spontaneity of small‑ensemble jazz.

The Jazz Combos take the stage for a second night this week in a concert that spotlights creativity, collaboration, and the spontaneity of small‑ensemble jazz. With an emphasis on individual voices and group interplay, this performance offers a closer look at jazz in its most conversational form.

The Jazz Combos take the stage for a second night this week in a concert that spotlights creativity, collaboration, and the spontaneity of small‑ensemble jazz.

Featuring the Guitar Ensemble, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Piano, this concert brings multiple facets of KSU’s jazz performance program together on one stage. The evening emphasizes creativity, interaction, and individual voice across instrumental and vocal traditions.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble I takes the stage for a November concert led by Sam Skelton. Building on the momentum of the fall semester, the ensemble presents an evening of big band jazz featuring confident ensemble playing, rhythmic drive, and expressive solo work.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble I takes the stage for a November concert led by Sam Skelton.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble II and Jazz Ensemble III share the stage for an evening of big band jazz featuring energetic ensemble playing and student-driven musicianship. Led by Wes Funderburk and Rob Opitz, respectively, these ensembles explore a range of jazz styles that highlight both group cohesion and individual expression.

KSU’s Jazz Ensemble II and Jazz Ensemble III share the stage for an evening of big band jazz featuring energetic ensemble playing and student-driven musicianship.

Each year, the Bailey School of Music comes together for one of KSU’s most beloved holiday traditions — an evening where music fills the hall with reflection and collective joy. Featuring performances by the Chamber Singers, Jazz Ensemble I, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, the annual Holiday Concert transforms the season’s familiar melodies into something vibrant and expansive. Blending orchestral grandeur, luminous choral works, spirited jazz and festive favorites, the concert showcases the extraordinary breadth of artistry across the Bailey School of Music’s flagship ensembles. What emerges is more than a performance; it is a celebration of community itself — of shared traditions, creative collaboration and the enduring power of live music to bring people together. For audiences across Kennesaw and the greater Atlanta region, the Holiday Concert has become a cherished seasonal gathering and a reflection of the Bailey School of Music’s growing cultural presence. At its heart is a simple but profound invitation: to pause, listen and experience the joy of music shared in community. The program celebrates the richness of this time of year by honoring multiple holidays and cultural traditions, presenting music that reflects themes of community, light, and togetherness. From orchestral and choral works to jazz and wind repertoire, the concert showcases the depth and variety of musical expression across KSU’s large ensembles. A longtime audience favorite, the evening traditionally concludes with “Sleigh Ride,” performed by the Wind Ensemble—a joyful and spirited send‑off that has become a hallmark of the concert and a moment audiences look forward to each year. Join us for this festive and inclusive celebration as KSU’s musicians come together to close the fall semester with music that resonates across traditions and brings the campus and community together.

Each year, the Bailey School of Music comes together for one of KSU’s most beloved holiday traditions — an evening where music fills the hall with reflection and collective joy. Featuring performances by the Chamber Singers, Jazz Ensemble I, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, the annual Holiday Concert transforms the season’s familiar melodies into something vibrant and expansive. Blending orchestral grandeur, luminous choral works, spirited jazz and festive favorites, the concert showcases the extraordinary breadth of artistry across the Bailey School of Music’s flagship ensembles. What emerges is more than a performance; it is a celebration of community itself — of shared traditions, creative collaboration and the enduring power of live music to bring people together. For audiences across Kennesaw and the greater Atlanta region, the Holiday Concert has become a cherished seasonal gathering and a reflection of the Bailey School of Music’s growing cultural presence. At its heart is a simple but profound invitation: to pause, listen and experience the joy of music shared in community. The program celebrates the richness of this time of year by honoring multiple holidays and cultural traditions, presenting music that reflects themes of community, light, and togetherness. From orchestral and choral works to jazz and wind repertoire, the concert showcases the depth and variety of musical expression across KSU’s large ensembles. A longtime audience favorite, the evening traditionally concludes with “Sleigh Ride,” performed by the Wind Ensemble—a joyful and spirited send‑off that has become a hallmark of the concert and a moment audiences look forward to each year. Join us for this festive and inclusive celebration as KSU’s musicians come together to close the fall semester with music that resonates across traditions and brings the campus and community together.

Each year, the Bailey School of Music comes together for one of KSU’s most beloved holiday traditions — an evening where music fills the hall with reflection and collective joy. Featuring performances by the Chamber Singers, Jazz Ensemble I, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, the annual Holiday Concert transforms the season’s familiar melodies into something vibrant and expansive. Blending orchestral grandeur, luminous choral works, spirited jazz and festive favorites, the concert showcases the extraordinary breadth of artistry across the Bailey School of Music’s flagship ensembles. What emerges is more than a performance; it is a celebration of community itself — of shared traditions, creative collaboration and the enduring power of live music to bring people together. For audiences across Kennesaw and the greater Atlanta region, the Holiday Concert has become a cherished seasonal gathering and a reflection of the Bailey School of Music’s growing cultural presence. At its heart is a simple but profound invitation: to pause, listen and experience the joy of music shared in community. The program celebrates the richness of this time of year by honoring multiple holidays and cultural traditions, presenting music that reflects themes of community, light, and togetherness. From orchestral and choral works to jazz and wind repertoire, the concert showcases the depth and variety of musical expression across KSU’s large ensembles. A longtime audience favorite, the evening traditionally concludes with “Sleigh Ride,” performed by the Wind Ensemble—a joyful and spirited send‑off that has become a hallmark of the concert and a moment audiences look forward to each year. Join us for this festive and inclusive celebration as KSU’s musicians come together to close the fall semester with music that resonates across traditions and brings the campus and community together.