Designed to rehearse, perform, and examine the repertoire of the jazz big band, the Jazz Lab Ensemble explores classic, historically significant repertoire as well as new arrangements and/or compositions. This is also a class that is intended to develop the necessary skills of section lead playing, rehearsal techniques, jazz phrasing and styles. A wide selection of materials is used to attain these goals including the music of classic big bands such as the Thad Jones Orchestra, Count Basie Orchestra, Dizzy Gillespie Band, Oliver Nelson, Duke Pearson and Duke Ellington Orchestra. Dennis Wilson, conductor

Enjoy a performance by the University of Michigan Jazz Ensemble – the most competitive of the University’s jazz ensembles. Open by audition only, most seats are filled by majors within the Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation. Kris Johnson, conductor

Undergraduate student Bruno Deni performs a final senior recital.

Led by seven-time Grammy nominee John Santos, the John Santos Sextet brings Afro-Latin jazz to life through irresistible rhythms, bold improvisation, and deep musical connection. The ensemble blends jazz with the rich traditions of the Caribbean and Latin America, creating music that is both rooted in history and vibrantly contemporary. Known for its dynamic performances and exceptional musicianship, the sextet invites audiences into a joyful, soulful exploration of rhythm and culture. Expect an unforgettable evening of percussion-driven grooves, spirited collaboration, and music that moves both body and mind. Presented by the Center for World Performances Studies with support from the School of Music, Theatre & Dance Percussion Program. *If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact the Center for World Performance Studies at cwps.information@umich.edu at least one week in advance of this event. Please be aware that advance notice is necessary as some accommodations may require more time for the University to arrange.*

The Michigan Youth Jazz Orchestra (MYJO) provides advanced experience performing a variety of big band repertoire in venues throughout Southeast Michigan. The Michigan Youth Jazz Orchestra is open by audition to all high-school aged instrumentalists interested in jazz and/or improvisation. Conductor/ Faculty Director Dennis Wilson

Student ensembles perform from the Small Jazz Ensembles program, coached by Professors Andy Milne, Robert Hurst, Marion Hayden and Nate Winn. The groups range in size from duos to sextets, performing original and standard repertoire.

Student ensembles perform from the Small Jazz Ensembles program, coached by Professors Andy Milne, Robert Hurst, Marion Hayden and Nate Winn. The groups range in size from duos to sextets, performing original and standard repertoire.

The University of Michigan Campus Jazz Ensemble is the premier non-major jazz performing experience offered by SMTD, with membership by audition only. Dennis Wilson, conductor

The University of Michigan Jazz Ensemble is the most competitive of the University’s jazz ensembles. Open by audition only, most seats are filled by majors within the Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation. Designed to rehearse, perform, and examine the repertoire of the jazz big band, the Jazz Lab Ensemble explores classic, historically significant repertoire as well as new arrangements and/or compositions. This is also a class that is intended to develop the necessary skills of section lead playing, rehearsal techniques, jazz phrasing and styles. Jazz Ensemble: Kris Johnson, conductor Jazz Lab Ensemble: Dennis Wilson, conductor

The University of Michigan Jazz Ensemble is the most competitive of the University’s jazz ensembles. Open by audition only, most seats are filled by majors within the Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisation. The ensemble meets twice a week for two hours, performs several times a semester on campus and off. Kris Johnson, conductor