Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, the Jacksonville State University (Jax State) Jazz Ensemble is entering a new and thrilling chapter, with high-profile performances, a new album release, and a landmark international opportunity. The ensemble is preparing for a trip to Havana, Cuba, during Spring Break 2026, offering members of the Latin Jazz Ensemble and community participants an immersive educational and cultural exchange experience.
“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 time in Havana, participants will attend workshops and performances at the city’s conservatory and engage in lectures on Cuban music and culture. The estimated cost for student participants is $2,600, and the ensemble plans to hold fundraising concerts to help offset expenses. Non-student attendees will also contribute to funding efforts, and donations are being accepted through the Friends of Jazz Foundation.
Beyond the Havana trip, the Jax State jazz program continues to build its national reputation. It remains the only nationally recognized jazz program in Alabama, having won two Downbeat Magazine Student Awards, most recently in 2023. The program, the largest of its kind in the region, features 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 noted. “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 anticipated events, the annual Jazz Festival on April 4 will feature Jazz I performing alongside Grammy Award-winning vocalist Carmen Bradford. Additionally, Jazz Ensemble I is set to release a big band album of Allman Brothers songs this fall, 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 regarded as 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 also perform professionally in the area, including at local venues like Classic on Noble, while balancing demanding academic and performance schedules.
Jazz students at Jax State undertake rigorous training, including two recitals, several hours of daily practice, and original music composition. They are encouraged to attend concerts in cities like Birmingham and Atlanta to broaden their exposure to the industry. The program has a strong track record of success, with graduates earning teaching assistantships in master’s programs and securing positions in the music industry.
Beyond awards and performances, the program emphasizes lifelong skills in improvisation, teamwork, and confidence. “Once someone catches the jazz bug, it becomes a lifelong creative outlet,” Nevala said.
As the Jax State Jazz Ensemble continues to expand its reach, community support plays a crucial role in its success. Contributions help provide scholarships, fund travel opportunities such as 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 https://give.jsu.edu/g/jax-state-jazz-ensemble.
