The Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) and Southeast High School (SEHS) Jazz Ensemble continues to grow in popularity. The ensemble, comprised of both OCCC and SEHS jazz students, recently performed a set at the Ninth Annual Jazz Educator’s Network (JEN) International Conference in Dallas, Texas.

“Jazz draws from the creative music elements of soul and spirit,†says OCCC Dean of Arts, English and Humanities Dr. Thomas Harrison. “Our students combine their love for learning, their passion for music and a desire to share the creative element with audiences and communities. The OCCC/SEHS Jazz Ensemble is a collective of students who share their love and passion of jazz.â€

In January 2017, OCCC Music Professors Michael Boyle and Mark Giammario created a hybrid band with students from Southeast High School. The OCCC/SEHS Jazz Ensemble has since performed at OCCC events and other private functions across the metro. The band has been featured on KFOR’s “What’s Right About Education,†received a $600 grant from McDonald’s Restaurants, and has most recently booked their first paid gig.

“The best thing about the partnership between the high school and the college is that it gives our students on the south side of Oklahoma City a musical pathway in education from high school to OCCC to a four-year university,†says Music Professor Michael Boyle. “The JEN conference was a fantastic opportunity for these students to see top-notch schools from across the country and enrich their learning of the art.â€

In addition to the performance, ensemble members attended the conference’s exhibits, clinics and concerts by world-famous musicians such as Doc Severinsen, Ernie Watts and more.

For more information on the jazz ensemble, contact Professor Boyle at mboyle@occc.edu.

OCCC enrolls more than 20,000 students annually. The college is currently the largest adult basic education provider in the state. OCCC offers a full range of associate degree programs that prepare students to transfer to baccalaureate institutions while other degree and certificate programs prepare students for immediate employment. At OCCC, students receive a quality education with small class sizes, dedicated professors and leadership opportunities. Students can choose from more than 60 major fields of study and participate in any of the 40+ clubs and organizations. For more information about OCCC, visit www.occc.edu.