Jacksonville, AL –Per Abigail Harrison with JSU’s media team, the JSU Jazz Ensemble I is included in June’s edition of ” DownBeat” magazine as the winner of the DownBeat Student Music Award that is the equivalent to getting the Grammy.
Each year colleges, universities and high schools submit their recordings in a variety of categories like Small Group Large Ensemble Vocal Jazz, Original Composition and Arranging. the most outstanding submissions are picked. JSU recorded three tracks and has been recognized by the judges for its performance excellence in the Large Ensemble category.
“This award is a tribute to the high quality of our jazz programs, particularly the students of JSU Jazz Ensemble I and their dedication into learning to play their instrument,” said Dr. Andy Nevala, director of the JSU Jazz program. “Each student will be awarded a certificate that will be framed to hang to their office walls. They are difficult to find, and show the dedication, talent, and a solid commitment to work. These students will be able to benefit when they submit applications for positions.”
It’s the second time that JSU Jazz Ensemble I – the top university jazz performance group – has been awarded an award called the Downbeat Award. The group won its first award in the year 2015. It took the program almost $5,000 to have a professional record of the “DownBeat” entry. This year, the program required a $15 application fee since the recording was recorded at the facility under the direction of Professor Dr. Nevala and Dr. James Woodward, associate professor of music theory.
JSU Jazz currently boasts four jazz ensembles which include the Award-winning Jazz Ensemble I, and six combos as well as an Latin Ensemble. Admission is open to all students of all majors, and auditions take place on the first day of class every semester. The school offers the Bachelor of Arts in music that focuses on jazz performances in addition to the option of a specialization in Jazz Studies. The program was established with the hiring by Nevala, Dr. Nevala in 2011, JSU Jazz continues to distinguish it as Alabama’s premier university program.
“Students are receiving guidance from experts working in the field and it’s evident in the results we’re seeing,” Nevala said. “This recognition means that we have the biggest, most effective Jazz program within the entire state and also one of the most popular across the country. In a school that’s this big and to be able to claim two awards this award is almost unheard-of.”
