Global Jazz with the UW Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble

Global Jazz, Music of the Taipei Orchestra

Enjoy a night of global jazz, featuring the music of the Taipei Jazz Orchestra with the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire’s Jazz Ensemble One! With featured solos from acclaimed saxophonist Dr. Aaron Hedenstrom, esteemed worldwide musician Mr. Jim Geddes, UW-Eau Claire’s Director of Jazz Studies Mr. Robert Baca, and a surprise mystery guest, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

Located within some of the most beautiful north woods scenery in the United States, the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I is hailed as one of the finest Jazz Ensembles in the country receiving the “Downbeat Award” for “Best College Big Band” nine times and two Grammy Nominations for their 22 recordings, all receiving critical acclaim. The ensemble has been turning concert halls and education conventions into a joyous spaces in the United States, Europe and China pleasing audiences with their adventurous canon of music from the beginning of big bands to present day.

Versatile musician Jim “J” Geddes, 高杰, brings a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Based in Taipei since 2016, he founded Zy The Way 中庸 and TPO Jazz Orchestra. Jim’s jazz, rock, and pop expertise extends to saxophone, clarinet, and flute. A performer at major festivals, he’s made waves in Taiwan’s music scene.

Their director, Robert Baca, has been a touring member of the Buddy Rich Big Band, the Frank Sinatra Orchestra, Tony Bennett, Mel Torme and has performed and recorded extensively in the Twin Cities as well as a soloist in the United States, Europe, Costa Rica, London and China.

“The Eau Claire campus of the University of Wisconsin has one of the most well-regarded jazz studies programs in the country.” -New York Times

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I