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University College 
Department of Performing Arts and Technology
Photo collage featuring pictures of students in the jazz ensembles.

Jazz Bands

Our jazz big bands and combos offer students the chance to hone their skills performing a variety of jazz and swing styles, and to develop their improvisational skills. As a member of a jazz ensemble, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow student-musicians who share your interests, while challenging yourself musically. Find your Wolfpack community by joining a jazz ensemble.

Being a part of the jazz program has consistently been a source of friendships and growth during my time at NC State; it’s a place to decompress and be challenged at the same time.

Carly Abney

Jazz Combos (MUS 141 & 143)

We offer several jazz combos ranging in experience from intermediate to advanced. Combos typically share concerts with the big bands and often perform throughout the semester, both on and off campus.

Directed by Dr. Wes Parker and Mr. Jason Foureman

MUS 141 or 143 meet at times TBD based on student availability.

Email Dr. Parker
A trumpet player and two saxophone players from the NC State Jazz Combo perform in OneEarth cafe.

Jazz Lab Band (MUS 142)

The NC State Jazz Lab Band is a full-size big band that rehearses and performs basic to advanced repertoire for jazz ensemble. The course also focuses on individual practice techniques, improvisation, rehearsal protocols, discussion of historical and musical significance of repertoire, and public performances.

Directed by Dr. Wes Parker and Mr. Jason Foureman

MUS 142 meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m.

Email Dr. Parker
Image of the saxophone section of the jazz lab band performing during a concert.
Our ensembles are open to all students regardless of major. Find your campus community of Wolfpack student-musicians by registering for an ensemble today.

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Studio Band (MUS 142-002) 

The NC State Studio Band (MUS 142-002) is a large jazz ensemble that focuses on the performance of jazz big band standards.  This is the newest of the three “big bands” at NC State.

Taught by Jason Foureman and Kobie Watkins.
Overseen by director of jazz studies Dr. Wes Parker. 

MUS 142-002 meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30-2:45 p.m.

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Jazz Orchestra (MUS 144)

The NC State Jazz Orchestra is a full-size big band that rehearses and performs advanced repertoire for jazz ensemble. The course also focuses on individual practice techniques, improvisation, rehearsal protocols, discussion of historical and musical significance of repertoire, and public performances.

Directed by Dr. Wes Parker

MUS 144 meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m.

Email Dr. Parker
Photo of the saxophone section of the jazz orchestra performing during a concert.
Wes Parker introduces student soloists during a jazz concert

Faculty

WP
Wes Parker

Teaching Professor | Director of Jazz Studies | Conductor of Jazz Ensembles

919.515.8277
JF
Jason Foureman

Applied Music Lecturer, Jazz Double Bass | Jazz Ensemble Teaching Assistant

Frequently asked questions

No, Dr. Parker holds a general jazz audition and then places students into ensembles based on your experience level and interests. Be sure to hold the big band meeting times open until after your audition. Combo meeting times will be decided after auditions based upon the schedules of the combo members.

Both jazz ensembles are full-size big bands. The Jazz Orchestra consists of students with more experience performing jazz, and the Jazz Lab Band challenges students to excel while developing jazz technique and improvisation skills.

In the large jazz ensembles, scheduling conflicts can often be accommodated on a case-by-case basis. Also, many of the jazz combo meeting times are arranged based on members’ schedules and availability. Contact Dr. Parker with any scheduling questions, jwparker@ncsu.edu.

Other questions?

For questions about the Jazz Ensembles and Combos, contact Dr. Wes Parker at jwparker@ncsu.edu or 919.515.8277.

Email Dr. Parker