Harmony in Diversity – Mason's Jazz Vocal Ensemble Hits the Global Stage

Lakin Raybuck — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:13:48 +0000

Harmony in Diversity – Mason's Jazz Vocal Ensemble Hits the Global Stage Lakin Raybuck Tue, 03/26/2024 - 13:13

In This Story

At ��ӽ紫ý Dewberry School of Music, the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, directed by Dr. Darden Purcell, has notably marked the past year with accolades that spotlight not just their musical aptitude but the inclusive spirit that defines the university.

This ensemble, distinctively open to auditions from across the university's diverse student body, stands as a living testament to ��ӽ紫ý's core ethos of inclusivity and the unique opportunities it fosters, perfectly embodying the "all together different" spirit that pulses through the campus.

The ensemble's journey through the year was nothing short of remarkable, crowned by winning the prestigious DownBeat Student Music Award for "Outstanding Performance—Large Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Undergraduate College" in spring 2023. This accolade, recognized globally, spotlighted the ensemble's exceptional talent and unwavering dedication, setting them apart in a fiercely competitive field with submissions spanning the globe.

Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble. Photo Credit: Joyce Boghosian

The ensemble's journey of achievements gracefully flowed into another standout moment as they carried the banner for ��ӽ紫ý at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) conference in November 2023. Standing as the university's singular musical voice at this event, they beautifully embodied the spirit and talent of Mason. The crescendo of their narrative hit a thrilling peak during their performance at the Jazz Education Network (JEN) conference in New Orleans, LA, in January 2024. Amidst a global gathering of talent, they stood out as one of only six Vocal Jazz groups chosen to perform, solidifying their place as a beacon of excellence in the international jazz community.

The ensemble's composition—comprising 15 dedicated members, including 11 vocalists alongside a rhythm section of piano, guitar, bass, and drums—mirrors the university's academic diversity. With students from Music Studies to Business and Creative Writing, the group exemplifies the rich tapestry of ��ӽ紫ý's student body, their varied backgrounds adding layers of depth and perspective to their music.

Preparing for such esteemed stages involved an intense rehearsal schedule, pushing the ensemble to explore a repertoire that was as challenging as it was rewarding. This included premieres written expressly for them by Mason Jazz faculty Dr. Shawn Purcell and pieces that demanded a high level of improvisation and professional skill, truly stretching their musical capabilities.

The ensemble's path to these prestigious platforms was paved by the generous support from the Office of Student Scholarship, Creative Activities, and Research (OSCAR) and the Dewberry School of Music Jazz Studies program, alongside proceeds from the annual Jazz4Justice concert. This backing is crucial, reflecting the university's investment in nurturing creative and scholarly pursuits.

Entering these highly competitive events required a submission process that mirrored the professional music world's rigor, emphasizing "live" and unedited performances. This stringent selection criterion underscores the ensemble's excellence and aligns with the university's dedication to authenticity and high standards.

For those within the Mason Jazz Vocal Ensemble, the year was transformative, filled with opportunities beyond performances to personal and professional growth. The shared experiences, from rehearsals to stage, fostered a profound sense of unity, highlighting the ensemble's role as not just musicians but ambassadors of ��ӽ紫ý's inclusive culture.

Reflecting on the ensemble's achievements, it’s clear that their story is more than a sequence of musical triumphs. It's a narrative that celebrates the power of opportunity, diversity, and collaboration, reflecting Mason's supportive, dynamic, and diverse environment. Through their musical journey, the ensemble showcased their formidable talents and the rich, empowering backdrop of ��ӽ紫ý, where every student is encouraged to explore, perform, and excel.

Topics

Dewberry School of Music

diversity equity and inclusion DEI