Jazz Trombone Ensemble
The University of Illinois Jazz Trombone Ensemble, under the direction of Professor Jim Pugh, was formed in the fall of 2006. By 2012, after years of trying various numbers of trombones, the ensemble arrived at the magic number of five (four tenor trombones, one bass trombone) complimented by a piano, guitar, bass and drums rhythm section.
The U of I Jazz Trombone Ensemble came to international prominence in 2012, winning the International Trombone Association’s Kai Winding Jazz Trombone Ensemble Competition. They followed that by winning the same competition again in 2017. They have also won the National Jazz Trombone Ensemble Competition (sponsored annually by the US Army Band “Pershing’s Own”) six times; in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2023 . In addition to playing at local venues and as part of Jazz Area concerts, they have performed at the Paris Conservatory (International Trombone Festival, 2012), Redlands College, CA (ITF, 2017), the American Trombone Workshops (formerly the Eastern Trombone Workshop; Ft. Myer, VA 2012, 2013, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2023) and twice at the Jazz Educators Network Conference (Atlanta, 2013; New Orleans, 2023). The Jazz Trombone Ensemble performs music composed and/or arranged entirely by present and former members, giving it a special sound and unique repertoire.
For more information, contact Prof. Jim Pugh.