Thornton faculty perform at annual Jazz Education Network Conference

USC Thornton Jazz Studies faculty recently performed at the Jazz Education Network Conference on Jan. 7 in New Orleans, an annual conference bringing together jazz professionals, educators and students.

GRAMMY-nominated artist and faculty member Sara Gazarek appeared in a debut performance with her all female vocal ensemble Säje, along with members Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick and Erin Bentlage. The group of four acclaimed vocalists collaborate on original material, covers and jazz standards.

Later in the evening, an ensemble of four heavy-hitting jazz faculty drew a packed crowd for their 11pm show: Alan Pasqua, piano; Bob Sheppard, saxophone; Darek Oles, bass; and Peter Erskine, drums.

Photos by Chérie Hansson, courtesy of the Jazz Education Network.

Sara Gazarek performs with vocal group Säje

Faculty ensemble Alan Pasqua, Bob Sheppard, Darek Oles and Peter Erskine