Stephen F. Austin State University has a long history of teaching and performing jazz.  The Swingin’ Axes, directed by Dr. JD Salas, has a long and distinguished history. Among its former directors are Gene Hall, founder of the jazz program at the University of North Texas, and Darrell Holt, under whom the band enjoyed national acclaim in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The Swingin’ Axes have backed up some the world’s best modern jazz artists, including:

• Bobby Shew
• Gary Foster
• Allen Vizzutti
• Eddie Daniels
• Marvin Stamm
• Mike Vax
• Chris Vadala
• Conrad Herwig
• and Jeff Coffin.

The band also makes a point of inviting in well-known regional artists, such as Tim Ishii, John Wasson, Tony Baker, Ron Wilkins, Randy Graham and many others.

SFA’s jazz bands perform frequently on the SFA campus and in the surrounding community at schools and charity events.

 

 

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