Lila Forde releases EP, In Another Life
Lila Forde, a senior in USC Thornton’s Jazz Studies program, recently released an EP, In Another Life, and was profiled in a Daily Trojan article about the project. In the article, Forde discusses her inspiration for the release, and how she has grown during her time in the Jazz Studies program while working with faculty… Continue reading Lila Forde releases EP, In Another Life
Alan Pasqua talks career and creative partnerships in San Diego Union Tribune
Alan Pasqua, a faculty member in the Jazz Studies program, was recently featured in a San Diego Union-Tribune article about his career, recent album release, and longtime creative partnership with fellow faculty member Peter Erskine. Within the piece, Pasqua speaks about his experiences over the years working with artists like Bob Dylan, Eddie Money and… Continue reading Alan Pasqua talks career and creative partnerships in San Diego Union Tribune
DownBeat magazine interviews Yellowjackets about latest album, Jackets XL
DownBeat magazine recently interviewed the members of the legendary jazz group Yellowjackets, which includes USC Thornton faculty members Russell Ferrante, Willl Kennedy and Bob Mintzer. The group spoke about their latest album, Jackets XL, which DownBeat calls “vibrant” and “robust.” Throughout the interview, the group speaks about the creation of some of the album’s tracks… Continue reading DownBeat magazine interviews Yellowjackets about latest album, Jackets XL
Jason Goldman featured in JAZZed Magazine cover story
Jason Goldman, chair of the Jazz Studies program, was featured in the cover story of the latest issue of JAZZed Magazine. In the feature, Goldman shares at length about his music career, his experience teaching at USC Thornton, and his own recent releases. Goldman also shares pieces of advice he hopes to impart on his… Continue reading Jason Goldman featured in JAZZed Magazine cover story
Ambrose Akinmusire wins DownBeat Magazine critics poll in trumpet category
USC Thornton Jazz Studies alum Ambrose Akinmusire (MM ’07) was voted top trumpeter in DownBeat Magazine’s 2020 Critics Poll. Each year, Downbeat Magazine’s Critics Poll recognizes the top jazz musicians and artists in the music world and names rising stars within the jazz community. The recognition comes after the acclaimed musician released a new album… Continue reading Ambrose Akinmusire wins DownBeat Magazine critics poll in trumpet category
Jazz Studies students form new jazz-pop group, release debut EP
A quartet of undergraduate students in USC Thornton’s Jazz Studies program came together to form new jazz-pop group Avellana, and released their debut EP of the same name on Sept. 18. The group is comprised of vocalist Hazle Thunes (BA ‘22), pianist Austen Mendoza (BM ‘22), bassist Dario Bizio (BM ‘23), and drummer Carter Boyle… Continue reading Jazz Studies students form new jazz-pop group, release debut EP
Rick Schmunk and Daniel Weidlein quoted in article about remote music production
Rick Schmunk, chair of USC Thornton’s Music Technology Program, and Jazz Studies alum Daniel Weidlein (BM ‘12) offered their thoughts on music education and production during the pandemic in a recent article on MajoringinMusic.com. Schmunk says that for students of music production and technology, the skills they learn in the classroom give them a leg… Continue reading Rick Schmunk and Daniel Weidlein quoted in article about remote music production
Ambrose Akinmusire and Gerald Clayton perform in NEA Jazz Masters ceremony
USC Thornton alumni Ambrose Akinmusire (MM ’07) and Gerald Clayton (BM ’07) performed in the virtual edition of this year’s National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters ceremony. The virtual concert on August 20 honored Dorthaan Kirk, Bobby McFerrin, Roscoe Mitchell and Reggie Workman with a packed lineup of performances and speakers. Pianist Clayton performs… Continue reading Ambrose Akinmusire and Gerald Clayton perform in NEA Jazz Masters ceremony
Jason Goldman releases “Hypnotized,” new EP of jazz arrangements
Jason Goldman, chair of the Jazz Studies program and a celebrated producer and arranger, has released a new EP, “Hypnotized,” featuring arrangements from the American Songbook and original songs in the same style. Known for his award-winning arrangements with singer Michael Bublé, Goldman, often known professionally as “Spicy G,” featured three exceptional vocalists: Erin Bentlage,… Continue reading Jason Goldman releases “Hypnotized,” new EP of jazz arrangements
Tish Oney publishes Peggy Lee biography for icon’s centennial
Jazz Studies alum Tish Oney (DMA ’07) celebrated the 100th birthday of music icon Peggy Lee with the publication of her new biography, “Peggy Lee: A Century of Song,” released in July. Oney’s book focuses on Lee’s artistic development, cultural impact, musicianship, and legacy as a songwriter. Oney’s exploration of Peggy Lee’s legacy began as… Continue reading Tish Oney publishes Peggy Lee biography for icon’s centennial