The Lawrence University Jazz Band has played an integral role in the Lawrence jazz studies program for almost a quarter century. Largely comprised of underclassmen, LUJB focuses upon large ensemble performance practice, improvisational skills, aural training, and an extremely broad range of jazz ensemble repertoire. In recent years, LUJB members have performed important historical and stylistic literature by Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie, as well as new pieces composed by Geri Allen, John Zorn, Tom Varner, Ornette Coleman, and Charlie Haden. Pieces are often learned by ear, and ensemble members are frequently expected to examine and study associated recordings of works presented to the group. Like the Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble (LUJE), LUJB fosters the performance of new compositions and arrangements by current Lawrence student writers. Visiting jazz artists often appear with the ensemble, and LU upperclassmen are granted special opportunities to both rehearse and conduct LUJB in concert.
For more information, go to the Jazz and Improvisational Music page.