Department of Music
Jazz
The Fresno State Jazz bands include the Jazz Orchestra, the Jazz Ensemble and the Jazztet.
Fall 2022 Performances
Big Bands at State
8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31 at the Fresno State Concert Hall
Jazz Combos at Wahlberg
8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 22 at Wahlberg Recital Hall
Fresno State Jazz Orchestra (Music 103JO)
Richard Giddens Jr, Director
The Fresno State Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Dr.Richard Giddens Jr, has consistently been one of the top jazz ensembles on the West Coast for over three decades. Led, for many years, by Dr. Larry Sutherland, other directors have included Dr. James Miley, Paul Shaghoian and Dr. Michael Caldwell. Caldwell has led the group from 2002 to 2008, a period in which the group has received all superior ratings for four years at the Reno Jazz Festival. The group recently produced a CD, “Day Dream,” featuring compositions by former member Josh Appleby. The history of the ensemble includes first place awards at the Reno Jazz Festival and The Pacific Coast Collegiate Jazz Festival. The group has appeared in Europe and Japan, as well as many festivals throughout the United Stated, including the National Collegiate Jazz Festival and the Kent-Meridian Festival at the Seattle Opera House.
More information on FresnoStateBands.com
Fresno State Jazz Ensemble (Music 103JE)
Richard Giddens Jr, Director
The Fresno State Jazz Ensemble is the "B" band to the Jazz Orchestra, but is a dominating ensemble in its own right, and features music majors and non-music majors alike. The group is under the direction of Richard Giddens. The group consistently earns high marks at the Reno Jazz Festival and boasts musicians highly sought after for performances in the San Joaquin Valley.
More information on FresnoStateBands.com
Fresno State Jazztet (Music 103JC)
Richard Giddens Jr, Director
The Fresno State Jazztet is a small combo group that performs several times a semester, including the highly acclaimed "Jazz at the Bucket." This group is audition only and is consistently made up of Jazz Majors.
More information on FresnoStateBands.com