Stephen F. Austin State University has a long history of teaching and performing jazz.  Among its former directors are Gene Hall, founder of the world-renowned jazz program at the University of North Texas, and Darrell Holt, under whom the program enjoyed national acclaim in the late 60s and early 70s. .

SFA’s second jazz band, The Swingin’ Aces, began in the Fall of 1972 under the direction of Dr. Max Morley.  After a short hiatus, it returned to SFA under the direction of Dr. Deb Scott in 2000.  In the Spring of 2016, the Dr. J.D. Salas assumed the directorship of The Swingin’ Aces.  The Swingin’ Aces performs four concerts annually as well as community and school concerts.  It provides performing opportunities for students to develop jazz reading and improvisation skills.

 

Jazz Pedagogical References

Band Links

Texas Jazz Educators Association

The Jazz Education Network

Saxophone Links

Attack, Sustain and Decay – Bob Mintzer Sax Lesson

Bob Mintzer Masterclass 1

Trumpet Links

Jazz Articulation (part I) – Trumpet Tips & Tricks w/ Charlie Porter

Jazz Articulation (part II) – Trumpet Tips & Tricks w/ Charlie Porter

Terrence Blanchard – Trumpet Clinic

Trombone Links

HipBoneU Trailer – Slide Technique w/ John Fedchock

HipBoneU Trailer: Improve Decision Making w/ Michael Dease

Paul The Trombonist YouTube Channel

Rhythm Links

LouisvilleDrummer.com  – Free Instructional Drum videos

Antonio Sanchez Drum Masterclass – Berklee

Wizard Harper – Drum Masterclass – 2012 Mid Atlantic Jazz Festival

Scott’s Bass Lessons

Ron Carter Masterclass – Jazz Bass

Ray Brown Double Bass Masterclass

Tjjazzpiano

John McLaughlin Technique Lesson – Guitar

Joe Pass – Jazz Lines (1991) – Guitar