Jazz Ensemble presents a classic musical performance

Troy’s Jazz Ensemble performed classical tunes on Tuesday, presenting a high-energy concert featuring a variety of jazz styles while highlighting student musicians and their musical growth. 

Guests in attendance experienced a high-energy, stylistically diverse program that moved from classic swing to contemporary big band writing. The concert featured a wide range of musical selections, including lush ballads and fast-paced charts that showcase both technical skill and musical personality. 

“We’ve got everything from lush ballads to hard-driving charts, and the students are really bringing a great level of commitment and personality to the stage,” said Director Dr. Dave Camwell. 

In addition to the musical program, the performance included the annual presentation of the Bess and Terry Mizelle Jazz Endowment award, which provides two students with a prize of $4,000 each. The award recognizes outstanding achievement and dedication within the jazz ensemble. 

“Getting the Mizelle Scholarship and having the opportunity to talk with Mr. Mizelle himself was great, especially going into my last semester here at Troy,” said Tosh Teeter, a senior interdisciplinary studies majorfrom Ozark, Alabama. “Having my colleagues select me for this award makes it even more special.”  

Cam Turner, a junior music industry major from Opelika, Alabama, also won the scholarship. 

Programming for the concert focused on creating balance between musical styles and highlighting the strengths of the student performers. Camwell explained that selecting pieces required combining traditional jazz repertoire with modern works to create an engaging musical experience. 

“Programming a jazz concert is always about balance — style, difficulty, and showcasing the strengths of the ensemble,” Camwell said. “It’s really about building a program that tells a musical story and keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.”  

Jazz ensemble performances differ from other musical groups, due to the emphasis on improvisation and collaboration. While musicians follow written arrangements, they are encouraged to interpret and shape the music in real time. 

“One of the biggest differences is the role of improvisation and flexibility,” Camwell said. “Jazz invites performers to bring their own voice into the music in real time.” 

Teamwork plays a central role in jazz performance, requiring musicians to listen carefully and respond to one another throughout the performance. 

“Collaboration is everything in a jazz ensemble,” Camwell said. “It’s not just about playing your part correctly—it’s about contributing to a shared musical experience.” 

Student performances like the jazz ensemble concert provide an opportunity for musicians to showcase the skills they have developed throughout the semester. Events like this also give the audience the chance to experience live music and support student performers in a collaborative setting.