jazz band on stage in the 1970s

The humble beginnings of jazz at CU 鶹

Dec. 6, 2017

With renowned faculty, award-winning student ensembles and trailblazing alumni performing weekly throughout the jazz clubs of Denver and 鶹, the Thompson Jazz Studies Program is firmly on the front lines of jazz along the Front Range. But that wasn’t always the case...

jazz students on stage in grusin hall

First jazz big band concert puts original works and classics in the spotlight

Oct. 9, 2017

The first big band concert of the season for the Thompson Jazz Studies Program will feature a couple of familiar faces in new roles—along with new twists on old, familiar tunes.

jazz students perform

Summer Jazz Academy hosts violinist during sixth year

June 20, 2017

Now in its sixth year, the Summer Jazz Academy this summer brings in Christian Howes, a guest artist who might be considered unconventional.

jazz ensemble on stage

Concert Jazz Ensemble prepares for trip to Costa Rica

March 21, 2017

This year over Spring Break, the students and faculty of the Thompson Jazz Studies Program will give whole new meaning to the idea of taking their show on the road.

jazz students on stage

Thompson Jazz Studies hosts Mile High Jazz Festival

Feb. 6, 2017

It’s been a Colorado tradition for more than 50 years and this year, it’s coming to Macky Auditorium. The Thompson Jazz Studies Program is getting ready for the 53rd Mile High Jazz Festival on Feb. 15-17.

john gunther with be bop boulder

Preview: Faculty Tuesday with the Thompson Jazz Studies faculty

Sept. 14, 2016

The Thompson Jazz Studies Program faculty members present Be(bop) 鶹 on Sept. 20 as the Faculty Tuesday series continues.

john gunther performs with carpe diem

Jazz and violin faculty plan live studio recording

Aug. 15, 2016

Thompson Jazz Studies Program Director John Gunther and Assistant Professor of Violin Chas Wetherbee will record Gunther's original work, “Anansi and the Sky God,” this week in front of a live studio audience.

bebop boulder cover

Be(bop) 鶹 with the jazz studies program

April 13, 2016

The faculty of the Thompson Jazz Studies Program recently released a new CD of original works, "Be(bop) 鶹."

symphony orchestra at boettcher

Symphony orchestra, wind symphony and jazz ensemble prep for CU at Boettcher

April 5, 2016

Stravinsky, Bernstein, Davis and "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" are all on the program for the College of Music's showcase concert at Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex April 26.

paul shinn piano

Next stop: South Africa

Jan. 11, 2016

Jazz piano DMA Paul Shinn will compete in the first ever jazz piano competition at the University of South Africa's Unisa International Competition on Jan. 26. It’s not unusual for a young pianist to enter a competition. Learning new repertoire, perfecting pieces you’ve known for years and getting them just...

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