Jazz Ensembles
The ASU Big Band, jazz combos, and jam sessions in downtown San Angelo.
Big band and small group, every semester
ASU's jazz program gives players both big band and small group experience, across swing, bebop, Latin jazz, funk, and free improvisation. The Big Band is a scholarship ensemble chosen by audition. Jazz combos run every semester, because improvising is learned in small groups as much as in a big band.
In fall 2023, ASU ran two big bands at once for the first time, and the program performs on campus and around town, from the Blue Buffalo Art Gallery to Brooks & Bates.
Recent seasons
- Spring 2026
- Let Freedom Ring! for America's 250thAn outdoor concert with ASU's Wind Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, and Chorale, and special guests Jody Nix and the Texas Cowboys.
- 2025
- Video game musicBig band arrangements of music from video game soundtracks.
- Spring 2025
- Count Basie tributeSwing, blues, and the Kansas City tradition. The concert was featured on FOX West Texas.
- Spring 2024
- Big band historyFavorites from six decades of big band music, performed at Brooks & Bates.
- 2024
- Latin jazzA semester of Afro-Cuban jazz, mambo, and salsa built on the clave.
- Fall 2023
- Two big bandsA first for ASU, with both bands performing at the Blue Buffalo Art Gallery.
Jam sessions at the House of FiFi DuBois
ASU's jazz combos host jam sessions at the House of FiFi DuBois on Chadbourne Street in downtown San Angelo. The combos play a set, then the stage opens to musicians from the community.
Jam sessions are held during the semester. For upcoming dates or to ask about sitting in, get in touch.
Play ASU Jazz Combos at the House of FiFi DuBoisWatch
Play A Tribute to Chick Corea
Play Have a Swingin’ ChristmasAudition for the Big Band
Saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, bass, and drums. Contact Dr. Shuey to set up a scholarship audition.