Jazz Ensemble One opens “Music Masterworks Series”

Southern Utah University’s Jazz Ensemble One performed in the Heritage Center Theater on Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

The concert was the first of the Music Department’s 2025-2026 “Music Masterworks Series.” The performance was free to attend for SUU students and faculty like all of the concerts that are a part of the series.

The show opened with a performance from Snow Canyon High School’s Jazz Ensemble. 

“(Performing with Jazz Ensemble One) just makes me want to be them, honestly, I just want to get that good,” said trumpet player, Morgan Nielsen.

After the high schoolers’ feature, Jazz Ensemble One took the stage and played various jazz classics and big band tunes for attendees. The concert included pieces by Ernesto Lecuona, Pat Metheny & Lyle Mays and Hank Levy.

“I like the energy that (jazz) gives me and the whole ensemble. It’s electric, you know, I think that’s why it’s America’s music,” said trombone player, Jadon Hall.

The ensemble played a number of songs and was occasionally accompanied by a vocalist.

“It’s an experience because you know that it’s real and it’s coming from the heart of the musicians and it just fills the whole auditorium and speaks to your heart,” shared attendee, Sharon Summer.

Future concert tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for SUU alumni, $5 for youth and non-SUU students and free for SUU students and faculty. For more information on upcoming concerts in the “Music Masterworks Series,” visit the music department’s website.

Author: Brooklyn Beard

Photographer: Brooklyn Beard

Editor: Briar Adams

arts@suunews.net