History of the Tarleton Jazz Program

History

The Tarleton Jazz Program has been an integral part of the Fine Arts Department for over 60 years. The program offers music majors and non-music majors a chance to perform in jazz ensembles, both large and small, take jazz courses, and grow as musicians and people. The Tarleton Jazz faculty are well-respected musicians and dedicated teachers that perform locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. They are highly sought after adjudicators and educators.

Students involved with the Tarleton Jazz program are exposed to excellent educational opportunities from dedicated teachers and exciting guest artists. The Tarleton Jazz Festival is an annual event that brings nationally respected jazz educators, as well as a world-class guest artist to campus. Our students get to spend time with these educators and performers.

The Tarleton Jazz program has a rich history of education and performance. Tarleton Jazz has performed across the country and the world. Some highlights include the 1974 World’s Fair, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Vienna Jazz Festival, and tours to Prague, London, and Hawaii. The Tarleton Jazz Ensemble has recorded 3 albums, Excitement of ’73, Big Bad Band, and Whisper Not. Tarleton Jazz alumni have gone on to become professional musicians, respected educators, and leaders in the music world.