Willamette Jazz Collective

Led by Scott Avzaradel, is the premiere instrumental jazz ensemble at Willamette University. Comprising a rhythm section with 12-15 winds and strings, this select group of musicians performs compositions and arrangements from across the full spectrum of jazz, ranging from the music of Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus to modern works by Maria Schneider and Jim McNeely and everything in between. In addition to a creative focus on high level ensemble communication and improvisation, the WJC places special emphasis on the music of today, with frequent premieres of original works by emerging jazz composers, unique re-imaginings of popular songs from other genres and compositions and arrangements by Willamette University students.

Concerts are held on campus twice each semester, including the annual Parents and Family Weekend "Jazz Night" with the Willamette Singers in October, plus a regional jazz festival tour every other spring. Past guests of the program include world renowned artists such as John Hollenbeck, Jonathan Kreisberg, Ron Miles, Tina Raymond, Patty Darling, and George Stone. 

The Willamette Jazz Collective is open by audition to all university students.