Jazz Ensembles

This ensemble provides intermediate to advanced level musicians a guided approach to jazz playing. Repertoire is directed in a comprehensive fashion and is heavily balanced between interpretation and improvisation of the genre while playing in a controlled “jam session” environment. The Jazz Ensemble provides a unique opportunity for strong musicians who haven’t has a lot of exposure to jazz playing to gain confidence in their jazz ensemble techniques and refine their individual musicianship.

The NH Jazz Orchestra is a high level, multi-generational performance group who share a passion and excitement for Big Band music. Rehearsing weekly under the direction of Clayton “Skip” Poole and his son, assistant director CJ Poole this group performs out frequently at venues such as the Rex Theater, Rockingham Ballroom, and for featured concerts at the Music School.

“Skip” brings more than forty years of professional big band performing experience to the ensemble, having worked with such luminaries as Mel Torme, Cab Calloway, Rosemary Clooney, Andy Williams, and Johnny Mathis to name only a few.