Andrew Classen became the inaugural holder of the Fred and Patty Turner Professorship in Jazz, thanks fo a $1 million gift from Drake alumnus Fred Turner. Mr. Turner noted, "I am delighted to have the opportunity to support the future generations of musicians who will keep this art form alive. Creating a jazz professorship at my alma mater is a perfect fit. This is my own way of making sure the music plays on." Click Here to read more about the new $1 million Jazz Professorship currently held by Prof. Classen.
Under the direction of Andrew Classen, Drake University Jazz Ensemble One is Drake's premier Jazz Ensemble. Over the past 7 years Jazz Ensemble One has performed all of the United States and Europe including appearances at...
The University of Wisconsin Eau-Claire Jazz festival, where Jazz Ensemble One has been named Outstanding College Jazz Ensemble five times (1996,1997,2000 and 2003, 2006). Two members of Jazz Ensemble One have received the outstanding soloist award for the entire festival, Steve Gilbertson (2000) and Jason Klobnak (2003).
The Notre Dame Jazz Festival, where members of Jazz Ensemble One received 23 outstanding soloist awards.
The Elmhurst Jazz Festival.
The University of Kansas Jazz Festival, where Jazz Ensemble One performed as the featured college Jazz Ensemble.
The North Sea Jazz Festival, where Jazz Ensemble One performed 4 times, more than any college jazz ensemble.
Jazz Ensemble One has also had the opportunity to work and perform with such distinguished artists as Maria Schneider, David Berger, Paul McKee, Dick Oatts, John McNeil and Ryan Kisor.
In addition to touring opportunities Jazz Ensemble One presents many chances to record. Over the past 7 years Jazz Ensemble One has recorded 5 CD's, with many more to come with the addition of a 32 track recording studio at the Mainstay, the jazz departments dedicated rehearsal facility.
The Drake Jazz Ensembles receive amazing support from Drake's president David Maxwell, son of legendary lead trumpet player Jimmy Maxwell. The Maxwell family recently endowed $25,000 to fund a scholarship for Jazz Musicians to attend Drake.
To listen to audio of Jazz One go to the Recordings page
