Calendar of Events

An intermediate- to advanced-level ensemble for high school musicians interested in gaining a greater understanding of jazz theory and developing improvisation skills through the study and performance of challenging jazz repertoire.

The African Ensemble features deep, uplifting grooves from (primarily) South Africa and Nigeria. Depending on the specific lineup of the winter ensemble, styles may include Afrobeat, highlife, township/mirabi/Cape Jazz, kwela, or Malian music. Representative artists may include Fela Kuti, Oumou Sangare, Victor Olaiya, the African Jazz Pioneers, Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand), Hugh Masekela, or others.

Since its birth in Detroit in the 1960s, the R&B, soul and pop amalgam known as Motown music has flourished as a favorite genre for good time listening and dancing. With its catchy and poignant lyrics, solid beat and full harmonies, it continues to be a mainstay of popular American music. This ensemble recreates the energy of the original Motown stage shows, with repertoire including classic hits by Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, Diana Ross and many others.