Ensembles
Performance ensembles comprise a major portion of the U of T Jazz curriculum. Following placement auditions at the start of the year, each student is assigned at least two ensembles. Horn players play in one of two jazz orchestras and one small ensemble. Some rhythm section players will do the same, others will play in two small ensembles. Vocalists sing in the Vocal Jazz Ensemble and in one small ensemble.
CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ON THE NEW OUTREACH PROGRAM!
FACULTY COACHES
Each ensemble has a faculty coach. Small ensembles meet for two hours weekly with the coach, and one hour independently. Large ensembles rehearse with the faculty leader for at least four hours each week. Repertoire development and rehearsal/performance techniques are the focus of the rehearsals.
REPERTOIRE/REHEARSALS
The ensembles provide a focal point for the application of skills and knowledge acquired in other classes. Rehearsals and performances provide an opportunity for students to develop their performance and their writing skills. Most of the repertoire for the small ensembles comes from the members of the group. Original composition is strongly valued at U of T; the students enthusiastically play the music of their colleagues, collectively finding ways to make the compositions stronger. You will never find a more supportive group for your unique approach to music.
PERFORMANCES
Public performance opportunities are numerous throughout the year. Each semester, all ensembles perform at The REX Jazz Bar (Toronto’s preeminent jazz club) and The Arbor Room at Hart House (the on-campus pub). In the first semester, all ensembles present a concert at Walter Hall. In the second semester, the jazz orchestras present an end-of-year concert in MacMillan Theatre. This year our Artist In Residence is famed NY composer/arranger/bandleader Maria Schneider. Maria will work with our students for a week, and then perform with the jazz orchestras on April 4.
Anyone who has heard the U of T Jazz ensembles can attest to the high level of individual proficiency and group interaction. Many of your fellow students are destined become major figures in the jazz scene in the years to come.