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Jax State Jazz Ensemble Expanding Its Reach with New Performances and Global Opportunities

by Brett Buckner

Jacksonville, AL (02/12/2025) — The Jax State Jazz Ensemble is gearing up for one of its most exciting chapters yet, with a slate of high-profile performances, a new album release, and a once-in-a-lifetime international opportunity. The group is preparing for a trip to Havana, Cuba, during Spring Break 2026, where members of the Latin Jazz Ensemble-and anyone in the community interested in joining-will experience an immersive educational and cultural exchange.

"We're inviting the entire community there's no cap on the number of people who can come," said Dr. Andrew Nevala, director of jazz studies. "We haven't taken an international trip in jazz and thought, why not now?"

During their stay, participants will attend workshops and performances at the conservatory in Havana, with additional lectures on Cuban music and culture. The estimated cost for student participants is $2,600 each, and the ensemble will hold fundraising concerts to help cover expenses. Non-student attendees will also help subsidize costs, and donations are being accepted through the Friends of Jazz Foundation.

While the Havana trip marks an exciting milestone, the jazz program continues to build its reputation as a national leader. Jax State remains the only jazz program in Alabama recognized nationally, having won two Downbeat Magazine Student Awards, most recently in 2023. It also boasts the largest jazz program in the region, featuring four jazz ensembles, six combos, a Latin ensemble, and a new vocal jazz ensemble.

"We've been able to maintain growth while our scholarship budget hasn't changed in over 13 years," Nevala said. "The kids are coming here to participate for a reason. Most of the students also march in the Marching Southerners. Together, we are a powerhouse for instrumental music education in the region."

Among the program's many events, the annual Jazz Festival on April 4 will feature Jazz I performing alongside Grammy Award-winning vocalist Carmen Bradford. In the fall, Jazz Ensemble I will release a recording of big band arrangements of Allman Brothers songs, featuring guest artists Wycliffe Gordon, Ashlin Parker, Carmen Bradford, and Jaimoe, the last surviving member of the Allman Brothers Band.

Jax State's Jazz I ensemble is widely considered the premier group in the program. "These are some of the best musicians at JSU," Nevala said. "Since we started the jazz performance degree a few years ago, the talent level has increased substantially." Many students perform professionally in the area, including at venues like Classic on Noble, while also balancing rigorous coursework.

Jazz students must complete two recitals, practice several hours a day, arrange and write original songs for their groups, and are encouraged to attend concerts in Birmingham and Atlanta. These experiences prepare them for professional careers-every Jax State jazz graduate who has pursued a master's degree has earned a teaching assistantship, while others are working in the industry.

Yet, beyond awards and achievements, the program instills lifelong skills in improvisation, teamwork, and confidence. "Once someone catches the jazz bug, it becomes a lifelong creative outlet," Nevala said.

From performing with Grammy-winning artists to exploring Cuban jazz traditions, the future looks bright for Jax State Jazz-one of the most dynamic and growing programs in the country.

From performing with Grammy-winning artists to exploring Cuban jazz traditions, the future looks bright for the Jax State Jazz Ensemble. As the ensemble continues to expand its reach and create incredible opportunities for students, community support plays a vital role in sustaining its success. Contributions help provide scholarships, fund travel for performances like the Havana trip, and ensure students have the resources needed to excel. To support the Jax State Jazz Ensemble and invest in the future of music education, visit this link.

About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate level. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1 or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.

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