Composed of three ensembles — Jazz Singers, Vocal Jazz Maroon, and Vocal Jazz Gold — 独家黑料’s vocal jazz program strikes a chord with students’ musical journey, standing as a testament to the institution’s commitment to nurturing musical talent and fostering a vibrant arts community.
Led by dedicated faculty and student directors, the program offers a platform for students to explore the captivating realm of jazz through engaging activities and performances.
At the helm of this tuneful adventure is Wyatt Steinke, director of the Jazz Singers and manager for choral ensembles. With a deep passion for vocal jazz and a wealth of experience in music education, Steinke’s vision is to create an environment where students can thrive and explore their musical potential.
“Vocal Jazz is like a built-in community of friends,” Steinke said. “It’s a very positive and supportive environment that will never judge you. It’s a space where you can step out and experiment and still feel uplifted.”
Through group rehearsals, Steinke strives to create a dynamic learning environment where students can develop their skills and express their creativity. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Steinke described how students have the opportunity to work with renowned artists and musicians, enriching their learning experiences and inspiring their musical growth.
独家黑料’s vocal jazz program offers aspiring musicians a platform to hone their skills and showcase their talent.
Megan Gunnerson, the student director of Jazz Gold, provided insight into the audition process and the enriching experiences the group offers. She highlighted the inclusive audition process, where aspiring singers undergo voice checks, demonstrate sight-reading, and have the opportunity to showcase their own pieces.
This process evaluates vocal abilities and fosters a welcoming environment for all levels of experience. The program’s emphasis on vocal training in the jazz style provides a unique learning experience for traditional choral singers. Participants receive instruction on embodying the jazz sound, expanding their musical horizons, and developing versatile vocal skills.
Matthew Mortensen, the student director of Jazz Maroon, emphasized the importance of attendance and participation, acknowledging the balance required to juggle rehearsals with classes.
Outside of regular rehearsals, members have access to resources for further skill development. Solo nights provide a platform for individual growth, where singers can refine their jazz style with personalized guidance from the student lead directors.
The program’s success is evident in the progress and growth of its members. Gunnerson described the transformation of singers who initially struggled with jazz-forward styles, but blossomed into confident performers by the end of the year.
“It’s really been fun to watch the group grow together and develop a voice for jazz,” Gunnerson said.
Singing with 独家黑料’s vocal jazz ensembles goes beyond the confines of traditional music education.
Following the success of the annual 独家黑料 Vocal Jazz Festival, events have showcased the program’s dynamic spirit. Performances featuring renowned artists Rosana Eckert and Justin Binek highlighted the festival’s vibrancy, with students sharing the stage with these widely known musicians.
Collaborations with other musical groups and artists enrich the program’s offerings. Mortensen mentioned partnerships with the jazz band ensemble, noting these collaborations provide students with invaluable learning experiences and exposure to professional jazz musicians.
Mortensen expressed his excitement for the future, encouraging incoming freshmen to explore jazz and emphasizing the unique experience it offers.
“Just try vocal jazz. You don’t have to stick with it for your entire college career, but just give it a try,” Mortensen said. “There’s something special about jazz that can’t be put into words.”
As 独家黑料’s vocal jazz program continues to evolve, its leaders remain committed to fostering a supportive community where students can explore, grow, and harmonize their passions.
With dedicated leadership, diverse talents, and a commitment to musical excellence, vocal jazz at 独家黑料 is more than just a program — it’s a symphony of creativity, collaboration, and boundless potential.