About Us
Student-Run Big Band at the University of Pennsylvania
Penn Jazz is the short name for the big band jazz ensemble at the University of Pennsylvania. The group is student-run and led, with the assistance of musical director Dr. Ryan Tomski. Penn Jazz was formed in the fall of 1973 and has performed with numerous jazz legends throughout its history, such as Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, the Count Basie Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis, and most recently, Christian McBride. We present a show toward the end of each semester to exhibit our hard work in mastering jazz and vocal tunes spanning many genres. Our performances are enthusiastically attended by Penn students and faculty, friends and family, and members of the greater Philadelphia community.
Bookings
Penn Jazz boasts a roster of over 20 musicians who collaborate to put on entertaining performances in diverse settings. We send out a variety of ensembles to hired gigs, from solo pianists to jazz trios to full big bands. Learn more about hiring our musicians at our Bookings / Contact page or email us via the form below to discuss our rates.
Auditions
We are always seeking to add new talent to Penn Jazz and take the music in new directions. If this sounds like something you'd like to become a part of, check out the FAQs and general information on our Auditions page or contact us via the form below. We can't wait to welcome you to Penn's burgeoning jazz scene.