Jazz Ensemble: MUSC 112, 212, 312, 412/1.5 units

Director - Greg Runions 

The DAN School Jazz Ensemble has provided an outlet for students from all faculties to create and perform music from the jazz and big band repertoire. Since its inception, student musicians who have an interest in jazz and popular music have been able to come together to collaborate and create inspiring performances of classic and modern big band music. Recent performances have included works by big band masters Quincy Jones, Count Basie, Thad Jones, Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Sammy Nestico, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, and Nelson Riddle. The band has also performed works by many current exponents of big band composition. They have recently performed the music of Bob Mintzer, Maria Schneider, Bill Holman, Vince Mendoza, Jim McNeeley and Mike Holober. By exposing students to a wide variety of classic and contemporary big band repertoire, students gain an insight into the intricacies of rehearsing and performing classic and contemporary big band music. 

The jazz ensemble has given many aspiring jazz and blues musicians a place to practice and refine their craft while they are pursuing their studies at Queen’s University. If you are looking to find a community of like-minded musicians to share your interest in jazz performance, and connect with musicians on campus with whom you can build long-term musical relationships, then you should consider auditioning for this year’s jazz ensemble. 

NOTE: Students will be registered into the course number that matches their current level of study. (i.e: if a student is in third year they will be registered in MUSC 315). Auditions must be submitted by June 22, 2024. See audition excerpts below.

Audition Application